**Tributes Pour In For The Alarm’s Mike Peters as Rock Legend Dies Aged 66 After Cancer Battle**
Welsh music has lost one of its most enduring voices, with the passing of Mike Peters MBE, frontman and founding member of rock band The Alarm. Peters died on 25 April 2025, aged 66, following an extraordinary three-decade journey living with cancer. News of his death was confirmed by his bandmates, as music lovers from around the world began flooding social media with tributes and memories.
Born in Prestatyn, Denbighshire, Mike Peters became a significant figure within UK rock, not only for his music but for his lasting impact on cancer advocacy. Alongside his wife Jules—herself a cancer survivor—he co-founded the Love Hope Strength charity, dedicated to raising awareness about stem cell donation, and supporting cancer patients and their families.
Peters’ musical career began in the late 1970s, performing with punk group The Toilets, inspired after seeing the Sex Pistols in Chester. By 1981, he had formed The Alarm in Rhyl, Denbighshire, leading a line-up that included guitarist Dave Sharp. Their energetic sound, blending punk roots with anthemic rock, struck a chord with audiences in the UK and beyond.
The Alarm achieved early success with their hit single “Sixty Eight Guns” in 1983, breaking into the UK Top 20 and heralding a period of rising fame. The band went on to sell approximately five million records, and are credited as some of the first Welsh rockers, after the likes of Tom Jones and Bonnie Tyler, to gain popularity in the American market—an impressive feat that placed them among the era’s influential acts.
Behind the scenes, Peters faced a formidable personal battle. In 1995, at just 36, he was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). Despite the blow, he underwent various forms of treatment—from chemotherapy to experimental therapies—to keep the disease at bay. His health challenges, however, never silenced his creative output nor his advocacy work.
The fight was far from over. In 2023, while preparing for a US tour, Peters was forced to announce its cancellation following the discovery of an aggressive form of lymphoma, identified as Richter’s syndrome—a rare transformation of CLL. He received treatment at the Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester, continuing to engage with fans and supporting others facing similar diagnoses.
Throughout his journey, Peters maintained a spirit marked by remarkable resilience and optimism. He frequently credited his global fanbase for their unwavering support, stating in interviews how their “phenomenal support and prayers” lifted his spirits through even his darkest hours. He was also awarded an MBE in 2019, in recognition of his services to cancer care, highlighting his commitment to both his music and wider community efforts.
Mike Peters leaves behind his wife of nearly 40 years, Jules, and their two sons Dylan and Evan. The family made their home in the village of Dyserth, North Wales, where Peters continued to work and inspire until his final days. Their joint efforts to raise cancer awareness remain an important part of his legacy, extending his impact far beyond the world of music.
Looking back on his career in 2018, Peters spoke to Guitar World about the philosophy that guided him. “Live right up to the last breath and stay positive about the world, your family and the environment you live in,” he said. It’s a testament to the strength of a man who refused to let illness define him, choosing instead to use his platform to motivate others and foster hope.
As Wales and the global music community mourn the loss of Mike Peters, his life’s work endures in the songs and stories he leaves behind. His blend of passion, courage, and activism will continue to inspire countless fans and future generations.