The family of a steam train enthusiast and community stalwart has paid tribute to their “hard-working” father.

Chris Beckett, a former West Runton parish councillor, died after a short illness. 

He had emigrated to Australia but previously lived in the north Norfolk village, on Water Lane.

As well as running a social club, he organised an annual Gardens Day.

He was also passionate about steam trains and previously worked at the North Norfolk Railway. This interest inspired him to install a miniature track in his garden.

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His daughter, Samantha Beckett, paid tribute with her siblings, Collette and Matthew.

She said: “There's never been a dad like him.

“I felt very fortunate to have been given the upbringing we got, and that he and mum both worked hard to get us to where we are today. For that, I've always been grateful.” 

Mr Beckett passed away peacefully on February 25 aged 67. He was married to Jean.

His body is being donated to medical science but people are encouraged to donate to a cancer charity of their choosing in tribute.

  • To pay tribute to a loved one, email norfolkobituaries@newsquest.co.uk 
  • To read all obituaries and tributes join the Facebook group Norfolk's Loved & Lost.