A prominent Walton figure and charity founder has died.


Tony Harvey, a Walton resident for more than 50 years, had an impressive service record with local charities.


He died on July 16, aged 85, at Whiteley Village Hospital on July 16.


He was well-known in the Walton area and until recently could be seen zipping through the High Street on his mobility scooter.


Mr Harvey moved to Walton in 1959 to take up a position with china and glass importers Shorter Brothers.


He later opened his own china and glass business in Weybridge, set up Home Extension Consultancy and worked for Feba Radio in Addlestone.


His hard work extended to helping people in need and, along with Chad Varah, the founder of the Samaritans, he co-founded the Weybridge branch in 1963.


He also worked with Walton Blind Club as a driver and helper on outings and holidays.


In 1988 he co-founded Care in Walton and Hersham along with Maureen Englemann and present chairman Bridget Moore.

The voluntary group provides transport to health centres and hospitals, giving help to up to 2,000 residents each year.


Mr Harvey, who acted as a duty officer and driver, was still on duty with his wife Margaret until a few weeks ago.


He also helped found the Walton Stroke Group, where he was a chairman and regularly organised holidays to Eastbourne.


Age Concern recognised his service to the community in 1997, as did Walton Rotary Club, and in 2004 Elmbridge Council gave Mr Harvey a special contribution award.


In 2007, he received a certificate of appreciation for more than 20 years of volunteering in Elmbridge and in 2010 was handed an Elmbridge Community Support Services Volunteer Award.


His eldest son Richard said: “Helping friends and family were his greatest joys. He always had a kind word and an appropriate joke for every occasion, and will be greatly missed.”


Mr Harvey, who donated his body for medical research, leaves behind his wife Margaret, his four sons, and his 12 grandchildren.


Donations in appreciation of his lifelong contribution to others can be sent to Walton Stroke Group (Tony Harvey Memorial Fund) c/o Walton Community Centre, Manor Road, Walton, Surrey KT12 2PB.


The money will go toward the Jubilee Project, which provides rehabilitation and exercise equipment for stroke victims and others.