Mike Ratu's final journey , Rochdale to Fiji

In 1962 at the age of 18 Mike Ratu ran away from his homeland Fiji to join the British Army,

During his training at Catterick Camp , he would often visit the Lancashire town of Rochdale to see his rugby sporting icons Orisi Dawai and Joe Levula , who had recently signed for Rochdale Hornets Rugby League club. There , he would meet up other fellow Fijians and enjoyed the local hospitality of the welcoming of his adoptive Rochdalian community.

Mike also signed for Rochdale Hornets and led a popular career quickly becoming and fans favourite. He met a local girl Anne and they settled down in the town . There , he raised a family with three children Michael , Emon and Nina. Mikes rugby legacy continued to live on with Rochdale Hornets with his Son and Grandson both representing their home town club.

Mike was also a successful local Publican and a rugby league coach with various amateur and youth sides. In 2013 , perhaps one of his greatest achievements was being instrumental in securing the first ever Fijian Rugby League World Cup fixture Vs Ireland played at Rochdale's Spotland Stadium. It was a huge success hosting a record attendance for the Club of 8,872.

Mike is survived by his wife Anne, his 3 children, 9 Grandchildren and 5 Great Grandchildren .

His greatest wish was to return home to his beloved Fiji and be laid to rest on his Island of Beqa ,in the village of Raviravi. These funds, hopefully will establish a fitting tribute to him and his village , which will also provide vital provisions for his community. A selection of his grandchildren are destined to take his ashes and be the custodians of him whilst he is taken home. Forever Fiji.