Michael Best

Listen to the interview, recorded in two parts

Summary

Based on an interview recorded on 5 November 2009. It reflects the interviewee’s life and memories at that time.

Born in 1935 in East Grinstead, Michael Best’s childhood was shaped by perseverance. A severe speech problem was transformed through music: a retired teacher taught him to sing, unlocking both his voice and a lifelong love of choirs. From boy-soprano days at Westminster Abbey to joining the Three Choirs Festival with Dick Biggs, music remained his great joy.

After National Service in Germany, Michael joined the family coal business and was later sent to Herefordshire to sort out a struggling depot. There he met Rachel, fell instantly in love, and together they made their home at Fern House in Fownhope in 1962 — a tumble-down cottage they restored by hand, tenant and all.

From then on Michael threw himself into village life. He helped rescue the old Memorial Hall, raised funds for the new one, organised the Green Man’s 500th anniversary celebrations, and led the heating and lighting appeal for St Mary’s Church. His imagination and humour made light work of the endless auctions, concerts and sponsored walks that followed.

He served on the Parish and Rural District Councils, the British Legion, and was long involved in the Club Walk and History Group. A founder of St Mary’s Amateur Rural Theatre (SMART), he brought music and laughter to generations of villagers.

Ever enterprising, he later ran a fireside-and-art shop in Hereford called Best of Brass. Through it all, he and Rachel remained at the heart of Fownhope life — welcoming neighbours, cherishing local traditions and helping the village thrive.

Michael’s story is one of optimism and service: of someone who found his voice through song, found his home in Fownhope, and gave that home his heart in return.