Mike is a legend - he's the friendly face and musician who has been playing and greeting people on the ramp behind the centre for the last nine years. He has a fantastic history in music and is a vital positive presence in the place. He is one of the people that make Hackney special. Intelligent, colorful, friendly and conscientious. Playing behind the centre is his one chance of earning what he needs to get by. So many local residents and shoppers know and love Mike. He has achieved this great rapport through years of staying at it. For some reason the current management of the centre have suddenly objected to Mike playing on the premises - which is actually outside, half way down the ramp to the car park, and in no one's way. It is possible this management don't realize how important and embraced Mike is. But as it is, all his work so far and his livelihood are being unfairly threatened. Mike is such a positive to the centre and neighborhood - he should be allowed to freely play his guitar as he has and where he has done for so many years.

East London Lines article: http://www.eastlondonlines.co.uk/2012/10/locals-petition-to-keep-mike-down-dalston-lane/

Shoreditch Radio interview: http://www.mixcloud.com/shoreditchradio/ditch-3-arts-culture-magazine-show/