Tony started climbing in 1970 when he was a member of the RAF Mountain Rescue team. His first year, based in the Peak District, established his life long passion for climbing. Within a very short period of time he was tackling long and adventurous routes with little experience. In 1971 he met a like-minded soul, Peter Cresswell, who was to be his constant companion for 18 years. They climbed many difficult climbs, both in the UK and the Alps, including numerous first ascents.

Over the next 10 years Tony climbed such notable routes as Mescalito on El Cap in Yosemite, The Brandler Hasse on the North Face of The Cima Grande, The Titan in Utah and The Cruise in the Black Canyon in Colorado. In the same period Tony continued his obsession for new rock on the Italian side of the Mont Blanc range and has now pioneered over 30 climbs on this dark side of the Alps. In recent years Tony has added Spain and Sardinia as must climb places. Over the last 30 years Tony has contributed and authored guide books in South Wales and the South West.