Ipswich Dive Club has paid tribute to its oldest diving member, who has died.

Veteran iDive member Bob Kessler celebrated his 80th birthday in January by taking the plunge for 60 minutes – one minute for each year of the club’s existence.

The 80-year-old died peacefully at home last month, with his funeral held on June 8 at Ipswich Crematorium.

The celebrated diver, while not being the club’s oldest member was the oldest to still be diving, joined in 1986 aged 43 and has taken part in more than 2,000 dives.

The club paid tribute to him and said: “Bob’s death was a shock to many club members as he was active to the last.

“He was at the club’s regular pool session just two days before he died and was his regular jovial self.

“Bob served as diving officer, training officer and chairman and in 2010 was appointed an honorary member in recognition of his services to the club.

“He will be missed but not forgotten.”

Bob, who was a retired printing trade work, is survived by wife Coral and sons Doug and Mark.