Tributes paid to Cromer carnival helper Rebecca Couse who has died aged 33

Irene Couse with Rebecca. (Image: Archant)

Rebecca Couse, 33, died on March 26 after a short illness when she contracted pneumonia.

Miss Couse, who had Down's syndrome, lived in Clifton Park with her foster carer, Irene Couse, 73, and had dedicated her time to being a volunteer for the carnival. She spent five years volunteering and always carried a collection tub.

Irene Couse, whose surname Miss Couse took, although she was not related, said: 'She had her pink bucket that she carried around so people could donate, even if the carnival wasn't on.

'She was one in a million and absolutely lovely. She was perfect to me and everybody seemed to like her.'

Miss Couse also paid regular visits to the lifeboat station and Davies Fish Shop in the town.

Claire Davies, owner of the fish shop, said: 'Rebecca was a truly inspiring young lady who brought joy and laughter to many lives.'

In her spare time, Miss Couse enjoyed colouring, watching television and gardening.

Her uncle, Dave 'Hubba' Roberts, said: 'Rebecca will be very much missed by myself and of course the Cromer carnival committee for the activity she contributed in her own special way.'

Cromer Carnival chairman Tony Shipp, said: 'Carnival events became the highlight of Rebecca's year and as she got older she would always want to be out with her collecting bucket and became our most important collector.

'Cromer Carnival will be a sadder place for not having her around in the future, but we will never forget Rebecca and her pink collecting bucket.'

Funeral plans have yet to be arranged but anyone wishing to contact Irene Couse can call her on 01263 514181.