A 60-year-old ambulance worker who has run over 250 marathons will carry the Olympic torch this summer.

Jim Mundy, of Crown Road, Sutton, will carry the torch between Norwich and Ipswich on July 5 ahead of the Olympic games opening ceremony on July 27.

The 60-year-old, who has been taking patients to and from St Helier Hospital for nearly 10 years, said he will be "honoured" to take part in such a momentous event.

Denise Mundy, Mr Mundy's partner, put him forward for the accolade, calling him an "inspiration".

She said: "He is an inspiration to other runners and he has shown dedication to the ambulance service's patient transport service."

Mr Mundy said: "I'm absolutely thrilled, excited and honoured, especially after seeing pictures of the torch and reading all about it."

A seasoned marathon runner, Mr Mundy should find the half-mile with the torch no problem at all.

He said: "It only involves running for half a mile, but I would have run all the way to Norwich to do it. It's a strange thing to think so people will be watching me, but once I get that torch in my I will be fine and very focused."

Mr Mundy has every intention of adding to his impressive total of 266 marathons in the near future.

In fact, he will be representing the London Ambulance Service at the Virgin London Marathon in April before taking part in the Games 100.

The Games 100, a 100-mile event, is organised by the Long Distance Walkers Association and takes place on the weekend of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, June 2nd and 3rd, and goes from Victoria Park to Windsor, incorporating all the Olympic venues.

Mr Mundy said: "I tried the 100-mile event before in Berlin, but only made it to 72 miles, so I hope I make it all the way this time. This year is certainly going to be very special."