GAME-for-a-laugh bingo caller Steve Hotston proved what a n-ice man he is by taking part in an ice bucket challenge to raise money for two charities.

Steve, who calls the lucky numbers at Gala Bingo on Basingstoke Leisure Park, raised £610 for Dementia UK and the RAF Benevolent Fund by being doused in freezing water while dressed in a bright green mankini.

His efforts were in memory of Betty Tarry, who used to be a regular at the bingo hall. Steve braved freezing cold water, complete with ice cubes, after learning that Betty’s husband Alfred Tarry, 83, of Pennine Close, Buckskin, was holding a charity collection.

Steve said he was planning on taking part in an ice bucket challenge, but wanted to raise money for a good cause. When he learned that Alfred was holding a fundraiser he jumped at the opportunity – although he had no idea the water would be so cold.

“I was so shocked – the water was stupidly cold,” said Steve. “My colleagues had stored buckets of water in our industrial freezers which go down to -20C. They had to keep breaking the ice as the buckets kept freezing up.”

His soaking took place in a nearby car park where he was watched by around 50 people.

Plucky Steve said: “One man said if ‘you do it in a mankini I will put £40 in the pot,’ so I couldn’t say no to that. He paid for the mankini so I had to do it.”

Alfred was “over the moon” with Steve’s efforts. The former security guard supervisor, who served seven years with The RAF Regiment, said: “I admire Steve. I couldn’t have done it – well done to him.”

Alfred’s wife Betty, 76, who suffered from dementia and diabetes, died of blood poisoning at Basing-stoke hospital in August. The couple had been married for almost 59 years.

Full of praise for staff at Gala Bingo, Alfred said: “I think Betty would have been proud of the amount of money collected.”

A total of £500 will go to Dementia UK and £150 will go to the RAF Benevolent Fund.