A TEETOTAL pub landlord is not only serving his customers from behind the bar but from the wheel of his car as well.

Peter Gill, the landlord of the Curriers Arms, in Wootton Bassett, has launched a new taxi company after customers complained that there weren't enough taxis in the town to take them home.

"When I took over the town centre pub seven months ago I quickly found myself driving some of my customers home at the end of the evening as a favour, because I'm a teetotaller," Peter, 60, said.

"My 'taxi' service then became so popular that I decided there was scope to turn it into a proper business.

"I've done 'The Knowledge' of Wootton Bassett and the surrounding area, received my Hackney Carriage licence and last month launched Appycars of Wootton Bassett."

Peter says he's not trying to build up a large taxi business.

"I'm first and foremost a publican, have been for 20 years and that isn't going to change," he said.

"But if the need for a local service is there to complement Wootton Bassett's current taxi service, then I'm happy to oblige.

"And, if I get enough drivers to help out, I'll gladly return to behind my bar again."

He says his new business has caught on so quickly that he's now got two taxis running.

His wife Jennifer has also done 'The Knowledge' so she can help out when Appycars needs an extra driver.

"So far I have passed the test, I have to have a medical and then I get my driver's badge," she said.

"We used to run the Woodshaw in Wootton Bassett as well but gave that up to concentrate on the Curriers and then we launch a taxi service.

"Hard work is second nature to us we never do anything by halves.

"But the taxi business has taken off really well we are even getting business from outside the pub, such as customers from the Indian restaurant next door."

Arkell's Brewery is delighted with its entrepreneurial landlord.

"It's wonderful that Peter is concerned enough about his customers to make sure they get home safely," said brewery boss, James Arkell.

"And, if it turns out to be a profitable sideline and of benefit to the residents of Wootton Bassett, we take our hats off to him."