Karl Bushby nears home after 28-year walk

Karl Bushby, a former paratrooper, is nearing the end of a 28-year journey that has taken him across four continents. He has walked 36,000 miles without using transport, as per his self-imposed rules.

Bushby, now 57, has crossed the Darién Gap jungle, the frozen Bering Strait, and swam the English Channel. His final leg of the journey is nearly complete.

Upon arrival in Hull, Bushby will be met by his son Adam, his 12-year-old granddaughter, his father, brothers, and his mother, who will be waiting at his childhood home.

During the final leg, Bushby's handcart, used to carry supplies, sustained a puncture. He attempted a roadside repair, noting the inconvenience but maintaining a light-hearted attitude.

Bushby reflects on the transformation his journey will bring, stating that his identity as an adventurer is about to change. He faces an identity crisis and must find new meaning in his life.

Despite the physical challenges, Bushby remains focused on the mission, emphasizing the importance of purpose and passion. He acknowledges the difficulty of adapting to a new life after years on the road.

Bushby has spent only about 15 of the 28 years walking, often retreating to Mexico for lower costs. The rest of the time has been spent dealing with visas and travel restrictions, including those imposed during the pandemic.

He has not returned to the UK during his journey, only meeting his family in other countries. He acknowledges the strain of distance but believes family remains a constant.