It is with a heavy heart that we need to add one more to our Fallen Rebel page.
Mike “ukchewbacca” Bailey of Elstree Base, passed away this past weekend.
Michael joined Elstree in 2010 with his Chewbacca costume and I had the pleasure of meeting him at Legoland 2011. He was a lovely, friendly man with no airs and graces and a pleasure to troop with. He was certainly a hit with the crowds who flocked to see him in his Chewie. He was a well-liked and respected member of the costuming community in the UK and he will be sorely missed.
– Suzi Stelling (suzijedi), Base Commanding Officer
We only got to know you for a short while
You made us all laugh with your true wookiee style
Trooping with you has been a great pleasure
with moments & memories we shall always treasure forever.
With each wookiee grunt & each wookiee roar
a huge hit with the kids who would come back for more.
Be it large event or small, you gave it hundred percent
you gave it your all.
So rest in peace our good friend
one thing is for sure you will be missed at Rebel Legion
by one & all.
– Chantal Freeman (adi gallia), Elstree Base Membership Officer
“My friends love Chewie, my family love Chewie, and because he “makes the difference” to so many people lives through raising money for charity, the guy has a big place in my heart too.” – Mike Bailey
I think this sums up Mike. A true gent and great trooper. RIP Mike.
Sleep well ukchewbacca.
– Beth Gourlay (sumbe foret), Elstree Base PR Officer
Mike “ukchewbacca” Bailey
Elstree Base
1975-2012