Brave vet inspired his family

Michael Payne was born in Eastbourne, went to school in Ringmer and worked for several local veterinary practices including the Chase Veterinary Group and Highcroft in Hailsham.

But he was best known for his television work which saw him appear on a specially-commissioned cable television show, This Morning, Good Morning with Anne and Nick and several children's TV programmes.

Michael who lived in Dicker was first diagnosed with a brain tumour in October 1993. He underwent treatment with radiotherapy and enjoyed a lengthy period of remission.

A spell of chemotherapy followed but some time later he suffered a severe stroke.

His first son Monty was born in 1995 and triplets Freddie, Ollie and Gus arrived in October 1997.

His ability to live life to the full throughout the duration of the disease won the admiration of friends and again and again he proved illness was no match for determination.

In 2000 Michael and his wife Caroline took part in gruelling treks across the Sahara and through Iceland and he continued with his veterinary work throughout most of his treatment.

He was cared for by Macmillan nurse Sarah Wheatley.

Sarah, specialist Dr Joanna Shawcross from St Wilfrid's Hospice and Caroline climbed Mount Kilimanjaro last year.

Mum and the four boys took part in countless sponsored activities and arranged special fundraising events to help donate almost 45,000 to Macmillan Cancer Relief.

Caroline told the Express that two days before Michael died he went into Eastbourne to watch one of his sons dance and win a clutch of prizes at the Eastbourne Festival.

She said: 'His life ended the way he wanted it to end.

'He was so well cared for it took my breath away.

'It taught me no-one need fear dying.'

There will be a private family funeral but a celebration of Michael's life will be held at St Mary's, Ringmer at 2.30pm on Monday (February 27) and afterwards at Ringmer Village Hall to which everyone is invited.

Caroline has pledged to carry on with raising money for Macmillan Cancer Relief.