A FORMER postman who has dedicated his spare time to organising excursions for locals has notched up 700 and has no plans to stop now.

Tony Wyatt started up Tony’s Tours in the 1970s and the institution has since become something of a local legend.

Over the years, Tony has taken coachloads of people all around the world, ranging from trips to the capital, to Florida or New York – all organised from his back bedroom in Ilminster.

The 73-year-old globetrotter recently celebrated organising his 700th trip and already has plans in place for his 701st.

Travelling Tony, who also used to own a delicatessen on West Street in Ilminster, says despite getting the odd grumble, he loves it because it brings enjoyment to others.

He told the News: “It’s still going strong – I should keep it going, I reckon, or else I’ll drop dead. I’ve heard rumours around that I am packing it in but let’s nip that one in the bud now – I’m carrying on, that’s for sure.

I was going to hang on until the 1,000th trip but I don’t reckon I’ll be here!

“I just love it ... I love going places and seeing shows and meeting the people. I’m just happy if I get a ‘thank you Tony’ and a smile as they get off the bus.

“It gives me a thrill to take someone somewhere new, whether it’s an old lady to a musical or a little kid’s face seeing London for the first time.”

Tony’s first trip was an excursion to a London club during his days as a chef in the RAF.

After leaving his post in the forces in 1981, Tony worked as a chef at Hornsbury Mill before joining the kitchen crew on the QE2.

He makes a small profit from the tours but over the years has managed to raise thousands of pounds for local charities, including Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

He added: “I just want to say thank you very, very much to everyone past and present for coming along.

“The first trip cost about £1.60 for people but now it’s about £1,000 for me just to book the coach.

“But everyone being committed to Tony’s Tours has helped raise a lot of money for charity and long may that continue.”

For more information about Tony’s trips and tours, visit www.tonys -tours.co.uk