Karl Bushby returns to Hull after while on 28-year walk

Former paratrooper Karl Bushby received a hero's welcome in his home town of Hull after completing a remarkable 28-year global walking journey. After setting off on the exact same date in 1998, the 57-year-old became the first person to walk continuously across the planet, covering 36,000 miles and visiting 29 countries without ever using transport to advance or returning home before finishing.

Bushby's monumental expedition spanned four continents, deserts, jungles, mountains, and a frozen sea. Along the way, he faced numerous life-threatening challenges, including being threatened at gunpoint, confronting a polar bear, and spending time in Russian custody after being convicted as a spy. He adhered strictly to two rules: complete the journey fully and never use motorized transport to get ahead. He pushed a heavily loaded trolley nicknamed Beast 2, carrying essentials and worn tyres, through crowds in Queen Victoria Square while people gathered to take photographs and shake his hand.

Karl Bushby becomes the first person to walk continuously across the world in a 28-year odyssey.

Upon arriving back in Hull on Monday, Bushby was greeted by television cameras, a helicopter overhead, and a large crowd of cheering well-wishers. He shared an emotional reunion with his 75-year-old mother, Angela, at his childhood home, and met his 12-year-old granddaughter for the first time. The homecoming event also featured appearances by German film-maker Werner Herzog, who captured the conclusion of the odyssey for a documentary, and Labour MP Karl Turner, who delivered a congratulatory message from Prime Minister Andy Burnham.

Why it matters

This unprecedented physical achievement demonstrates the limits of human endurance and determination. Bushby's journey sets a new benchmark for global exploration, showing what can be accomplished through extreme perseverance across decades.