Peter Beck

Published 11:46 on 2 Jun 2026

It is with great sadness we learn that Peter Beck who led sailing at Burnham Overy Staithe for decades had died in his 90's.

Peter and Melba lived "above the shop" at Overy Boathouse and along with Lester Southerland at Brancaster, kept many of our much abused fleet of Sharpies maintained, and its sailors safe and well looked after. He organised and was involved in the Sharpie racing over many decades and always supported BSSC when we invaded their harbour in BSSC Round The Island races and with the Oram Trophy. Peter's calm wise nature, and measured Norfolk drawl was frequently called upon for sailing protest meetings at local, national and international events.

Peter was always totally "hands on" involved with running the Overy Regatta, OSSC, the Overy New Year Bonfire and fireworks, the Admiral Lord Nelson Trafalgar 200 year celebrations. Peter along with Janet Sanderson (BSSC), Richard Cracknell (WSC),my father (HSC) and Henry Ward (SBSC and OASC) ran North West Norfolk Sailing Association (NWNSA) for many years when 80+ boats sailed the series. Peter personally hosted the ever popular International 12 races at OSSC as part of NWNSA week.

Peter was awarded a RNLI Vellum for a particularly dramatic rescue in Overy Harbour where there is little doubt he saved 3 children ( and rescued another 2) after a dinghy capsized and broke its mast. Unfortunately the Reverend skipper of the dinghy drowned.

Peter was instrumental in so many ways in the development and preservation of our unique enclave in North Norfolk, a true legend, the end of an era. Our thoughts are with Melba, Julie, Mark (Big Boat) and Paul.

- Jim Crossman

Last updated 11:47 on 2 June 2026