Maurice Watts, former chairman of Hemsby Independent Lifeboat, died on Monday, February 23.

Daniel Hurd, coxswain, said Mr Watts was a legend who he always "looked up to as a leader".

"The news has brought tears to my eyes, but I know you are no longer in pain," he added.

Daniel Hurd, coxswain at Hemsby Lifeboat, with Maurice Watts. (Image: Hemsby Lifeboat)

"Thank you for taking me under your wing - showing me the ropes, the fish preparation, and for teaching me so much. I learned more from you than you’ll ever know."

Mr Hurd said his thoughts were with Mr Watts' family.

Current lifeboat chairman Chris Batten said: "We have lost a founder, a friend, a font of knowledge and experience, and without doubt, an entertainer of note throughout the extended lifeboat family."

He said Mr Watts was "a true gentleman who spent most of his life serving others" through a long career, spanning 50 years, as a firefighter and as a lifeboatman.

Hemsby Independent Lifeboat, where Maurice Watts served as crew member, trustee and chairman. (Image: Nick Butcher)

Maurice Watts, former Hemsby Lifeboat chairman, with Councillor Graham Plant. (Image: Hemsby Lifeboat)

Mr Batten said that when he joined the service 13 years ago, Mr Watts treated him as a friend.

"Later, he became my trusted guide as I rose through the ranks from crew to helm to trustee, and eventually took over his role as chair.

"Make no mistake: failing health and retirement did nothing to dilute his passion and loyalty to the boat and its crew.

"In life, as we plough our own path, we meet those who are born to guide and born to inspire. Maurice was one of the good ones, and despite this devastating loss, he will remain my guide," Mr Batten added.

Mr Watts was remembered as part of the foundations of Hemsby Lifeboat and the heart of the station for decades.

© Eastern Daily Press