With his sense of fun and infectious enthusiasm Tony West embodied the spirit of Cromer's Boxing Day dip.

Eastern Daily Press: Alfie West, seven, who raised �700 for Cromer RNLI in memory of his late grandfather Tony with lifeboat operations manager Richard Leeds and North Norfolk Beach Runners Chairman Clive Hedges. Pictures: DAVE ROBERTSAlfie West, seven, who raised �700 for Cromer RNLI in memory of his late grandfather Tony with lifeboat operations manager Richard Leeds and North Norfolk Beach Runners Chairman Clive Hedges. Pictures: DAVE ROBERTS (Image: Archant)

In a fitting tribute to the carnival stalwart last December's dip was held in his memory to support Cromer RNLI.

A record sum of £4,078 was donated to lifeboat crew members today (Saturday). The handover ceremony on Cromer Pier was attended by members of Mr West's family and representatives of North Norfolk Beach Runners who organise the annual event.

An amazing £700 was raised by Mr West's seven-year-old grandson Alfie who had his very own cheque to hand over.

Mundesley Primary School pupil Alfie was presented with a RNLI storm force toy and picture of the lifeboat as a reward for his efforts.

Mr West, who passed away aged 54 last year, spent his life supporting Cromer Carnival, organising activities, making floats, wearing costumes and filling others with his exuberant spirit.

He took part in the 2015 Cromer Boxing Day Dip with wife Amanda, dressed as an inflatable Father Christmas.

North Norfolk Beach Runners chairman Clive Hedges said: 'Every year the Boxing Day dip raises money for a local charity.

'This time we decided to hold the event in Tony's memory and help a cause close to his heart.

'Cromer RNLI has supported us at the dip each year we have held it, so it seemed the right thing to do.

'Tony lived life to the full and everything about him was fun.'

More than 200 thrill seekers took part in the dip, with money raised through sponsorship and bucket collections on the day.

Mr West's widow Amanda said: 'To have raised so much for the lifeboat was so overwhelming.

'The crew are brilliant and inspire so many, we used spend a lot of time on the pier and at the lifeboat station.

'The boys took us out on the boat for a wedding present which was a amazing.'

She added: 'Alfie wanted to do this for his granddad and his mum Vicky set up a Just Giving page to help him raise funds.

'People who did not even know the family made contributions and there were a lot of anonymous donations. Tony and I took part in the dip the year before last, it was something we were both determined to do.'