A groundbreaking entrepreneur who helped to “reignite” tourism for St George’s stood out as a “mentor for Bermudian entrepreneurship”, a colleague said yesterday.

Natalie Moran, who worked with Michael Paynter, 36, at his electronic bike rental business in the East End, spoke after his death last week.

“As we all collectively mourn the passing of Michael Paynter, the owner of Pedego electric bikes, we must remember what a caring, kind and personable individual he was,” she said.

“With a steadfast business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit, he paved the pathway for the introduction of electric cycles on the island.

“He and his business partner, Luke Lindo, introduced and initialised the Pedego brand as a franchise in Bermuda when there was a need for environmentally sound, alternative options for sightseeing tours as well as transportation.”

Ms Moran said the two accelerated their business strategy at “a staggering rate” — bringing much needed new tourism to the Old Town along the way.

Their work won accolades from the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation, the Corporation of St George and “all of the community”, she added.

A member of the Pedego team since its 2019 launch, Ms Moran said Mr Paynter had stood out as an example for “the multiple possibilities and potential for aspiring self-made Bermudian entrepreneurs — where opportunity exists here within your own backyard”.

She added: “He deserves to be an honorary mentor for Bermudian entrepreneurship, and to prove as an example to Bermuda's youth and residents.

“In the landscape of our own economic uncertainty, his abrupt passing could provide inspiration, strength and positivity as a legacy, for the potential that we all have as a community powered by the people of our island.

“The drive, commitment, motivation and love for what he accomplished and the belief he had for it is to be passed on and instilled within everyone’s journey here in Bermuda. All is possible with belief.”

Ms Moran spoke after tributes were paid to Mr Paynter by fellow St George’s business owner and tour operator Kristin White, and George Dowling III, the Mayor of St George.