Tributes to Creamfields security guard with ‘huge heart’ who has died after being injured at festival
- Michael, also known as Bruno, sustained serious head injury while clearing site
- Airlifted to hospital where he died 18 days later after round-the-clock care
Tributes have poured in for a security guard with a ‘huge heart’ who has died after being injured while working at Creamfields festival.
Michael, who was also known as Bruno, sustained a serious head injury on August 28 while clearing the site in Daresbury, Cheshire.
He was airlifted to hospital where he died more than two weeks later after receiving round-the-clock care, his family confirmed on Friday.
A post shared by Michael’s brother Simon Smith to a Creamfields community group said: ‘As a family we regret to inform you that Michael AKA Bruno (Security Guard) passed away at 5am this morning following a tragic set of unfortunate circumstances.
‘We would like to thank everyone who has called, text, and supported us over the last 2 weeks, it is appreciated.
‘As you can imagine, this is a really difficult time for us all, so we would appreciate some privacy at this time.’
Tributes shared on social media said Michael, from Newcastle-under-Lyme, worked in a gym and had a son.
He passed away at 5am on September 15 – 18 days after his injury.
A GoFundMe, set up by his brother on September 9, has already raised £1,730 of its £5,000 goal.
United Protection UK, who provided security for the event, said: ‘Michael Smith, known to us all as “Bruno”, was a vibrant presence that lit up every room he entered.
‘His love of a good story only matched his infectious personality and love for boxing.
‘Bruno’s spirit will forever inspire us to live life with the same passion and enthusiasm he embodied.
‘Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and loved ones on this sad day. He was a showman till the end, and we will never meet a person like him again.’
Taking to social media, people who knew Michael were quick to pay tributes to a ‘kind person with a huge heart.’
Sue Whalley said: ‘So sorry for your loss, I had the pleasure of knowing your brother and doing his classes at JD Gyms – Newcastle under Lyme and previously at x4l.
‘He was one of the best people, a good, kind person with a huge heart & personality.
‘He will be missed by everyone. Thinking of you & your family.’
Another – Diane Durber – shared: ‘Have known Michael and his wife over 20 years.
‘My deepest love and support goes out to Bruno’s wife and son. R.I.P.’
And a third – from Lacey Louise Hanrahan – wrote: ‘This has absolutely got me! I’m so so sorry for your absolutely heartbreaking loss!
‘My thoughts are with you & your family at his extremely difficult time!’
