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Michael “Titch” Cornish sadly passed away from natural causes on Sunday 25th January. His loss is felt deeply across the Airborne Forces Riders and by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Some people help build a community. A rare few help define it. Titch was one of those rare few.

As a founding member of the Airborne Forces Riders and our very first President, Titch didn’t just join the Riders, he shaped them. The values, the camaraderie, the sense of belonging that we now take for granted were strengthened by his steady hand, his vision and his belief in what this brotherhood could become.

He carried that unmistakable Airborne spirit: courage, humour, loyalty and a quiet determination that inspired others without ever needing to demand it. Under his guidance, the Riders grew from an idea into a family – a place where service, remembrance and friendship could thrive long after the uniform was hung up.

He welcomed new members with the same warmth he showed old friends. He brought people together, bridged generations and made sure every rider, whether seasoned or brand new felt part of something bigger than themselves. His leadership set the tone for who the Airborne Forces Riders are today.

Even after his time as President, his influence never faded. You could see it in the way he supported events, in the miles he rode, in the stories he shared and in the quiet moments when he stood alongside us in remembrance. Titch didn’t just help build the Riders; he embodied them.

His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his legacy is woven into every ride, every gathering, every act of support and remembrance we carry forward. The Airborne Forces Riders exist as they do today because he believed in them from the very beginning.

Stand easy now, Titch.
Founding Member. First President.
Your duty is done.
We’ll carry the standard from here.

Funeral details:

Monday 16th February at 11:30

Gloucester Crematorium (GL4 4PA).

Airborne Forces Riders will provide a motorcycle escort for Titch’s last trip from his home, across Gloucester, to Gloucester Crematorium. The RV for riders taking part as escorts for Titch’s funeral is at the BP garage Hardwicke GL2 2RQ. This is about 600m from M5 J12 in the direction of Gloucester. Riders are requested to be in place by 10:30. Stands up at 10:40. There is a McDonald’s adjacent, but parking is limited. Riders intending to ride as escorts are requested to make contact with our President Dave Lang (chair@airborneforcesriders.com).

So that the family have an idea of numbers, people intending on supporting the family and paying their respects in person are requested to annotate ‘Going’ on our FaceBook page. (https://www.facebook.com/groups/airborneforcesriders)

The funeral will be live streamed so that those unable to travel can watch the funeral.

Should you have any questions please either post on the FaceBook page, or contact the President (Dave Lang) as appropriate. 

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