DURING his career, Tony Dutch has travelled the world. As an international account manager for oil and gas projects, he flew thousands of miles.

But Mr Dutch’s next travel itinerary is not quite so glamorous – and may prove much harder.

When he becomes president of the Colchester Forum Rotary Club next month, he has set himself the challenge of visiting as many Rotary club towns as possible in Essex in one day–by bus.

Mr Dutch, who will only confess to being of bus pass age, said: “I thought it was something I could do for zero expense.

“I want to get as far as possible as I can in a day and visit as many towns as I can with Rotary clubs.

“I haven’t heard of anyone else doing it and I am aiming for 44.”

But what seemed likeasimple plan is proving anything but.

Mr Dutch, who lives in Barbel Road, Colchester, is only able to start his challenge after 9am when bus passes can be used.

He also has to work out the logistical problem of tying up connecting buses – and ensuring he has toilet stops. He said: “I normally just use the bus pass to get into town and back. It is convenient and savesalot of hassle, but trying to get to places like Burnham is really hard.

“I will be going from Harwich across to Romford and you would be surprised how difficult it is trying to get across the Tendring peninsula.

“Some towns are good. I should be able to do five clubs in Southend and there are some good buses to Stansted going through Braintree and Dunmow.

“But it is all a bit of a logistical nightmare and what happens if one of the buses doesn’t turn up?”

Mr Dutch’s overriding concern, however, is ensuring he can find a public toilet.

“What happens if I arrive at Chelmsford and need the loo and the toilets are closed for refurbishment?”

Mr Dutch, who isatrain buff, said, however, the challenge was worthwhile as he hopes to receive sponsorship with money going to the Cancer Centre Campaign.

Mr Dutch has chosen the campaign as his charity for his year in charge of the Colchester Forum Rotary Club.

The Cancer Centre Campaign, which is supported by The Gazette, aims to raise £4.5 million to build a new centre to bring all cancer services together on one site at Colchester General Hospital.

It would include medical specialisms as well as support and advice services.

Mr Dutch said: “We haveagood friend who has had excellent treatment there over the past year.

“It is also likely everyone will be touched by cancer in one way or another so this makes sense.”

To donate to the campaign, text GAZE11 £10 to 70070 (or choose a different amount).

Cheques can be made payable to CoHoC Cancer Centre Campaign and sent to Colchester Hospitals Charity, Villa 10, Turner Road, Colchester, CO4 5JL.

Donations can also be by going to CohoC.org.uk.

To support Mr Dutch, email him at tonydutch@sys3internet.net.