Today, the village of Dyserth in Denbighshire becomes the heart of a global gathering, as thousands converge to pay tribute to Mike Peters—frontman of The Alarm, tireless cancer campaigner, and one of Wales’ most beloved sons.
Peters passed away on 29 April at the age of 66, following a courageous 30-year battle with cancer. His unwavering spirit and anthemic music inspired generations, both within Wales and far beyond.
A life steeped in Welsh roots and global impact
Born in Prestatyn in 1959 and raised in Rhyl, Peters’ musical journey began in the punk scene with bands like The Toilets and Seventeen. In 1981, he co-founded The Alarm, a band that would go on to sell over five million albums worldwide and achieve 15 UK Top 40 hits, including the rousing “Sixty Eight Guns” and the evocative “Rain in the Summertime” .
The Alarm’s music, characterised by its passionate lyrics and energetic performances, resonated deeply with audiences. Their success led them to share stages with legendary acts such as U2, Bob Dylan, and Queen .
A personal battle turned public mission
Diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 1995 and later with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, Peters faced his health challenges with remarkable resilience. Rather than retreat, he channelled his experience into advocacy, co-founding the Love Hope Strength Foundation with his wife, Jules. The charity has since registered over 250,000 potential stem cell donors and organised record-breaking concerts at locations like Mount Everest and Kilimanjaro to raise awareness for cancer care .
In recognition of his contributions, Peters was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2019.
A farewell befitting a hero
Today’s funeral service at the Parish Church of St Bridget and St Cwyfan is attended by approximately 150 invited guests. However, to accommodate the vast number of fans wishing to pay their respects, a large outdoor screen and sound system have been set up outside the church, allowing the wider community to participate in the celebration of Peters’ life.
Peters’ ashes will be interred in the churchyard opposite The Red, the café he ran with his wife and sons, Dylan and Evan. Jules expressed comfort in this arrangement, stating, “We’ll start our mornings with a coffee and a visit to Mike. He’ll be able to keep an eye on us—so it’s perfect.”
The residents of Dyserth have shown immense support, with local roads closed to accommodate the influx of mourners. Jules conveyed her gratitude: “It’s so fitting for a man who never forgot where he came from, who became a rock star but always carried Dyserth in his heart.”
A legacy that transcends music
Mike Peters’ influence extended beyond his musical achievements. His dedication to cancer advocacy, his unyielding optimism, and his deep connection to his Welsh roots have left an indelible mark.
In an open invitation to the funeral, Jules encouraged all who were touched by Mike’s life or music to attend: “Whether you knew him as the incredible musician he was, called him a friend or neighbour, respected his tireless support for others affected by cancer, or simply wish to be part of a historic moment in a very special place—you are welcome.”
As Wales and the world bid farewell to Mike Peters, his legacy endures—in the music that continues to inspire, in the lives saved through his advocacy, and in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
