Travelling monk Brother John makes in stop at Chepstow
Brother John, described as an 'inspiring wanderer', is going all over Britain – entirely by bus, using only his concessionary bus pass. Brother John, a respected bookbinder, has made a habit of interviewing his fellow travellers along the way.
The 85-year-old Anglican Brother completed the Welsh phase of his bus pass pilgrimage around mainland Britain at Chepstow bus station. He talked to passengers about his mission to raise awareness and funds for the oldest surviving and continuously used almshouse in the UK, the near-900-year-old Hospital of St Cross, Winchester.
An almshouse is a house founded by charity that offers help to the poor. Few remain in the modern world and even the name is disappearing from common use.
Brother John, a resident at the Winchester almshouse for a decade, set off on his bus pass mission from Winchester on May 1. He will end his journey when he arrives back at the Winchester almshouse on June 17.
The wandering monk explained the idea of almshouses is no longer widely understood. The Brother said:' We have had difficulty finding people to come here (the Winchester almshouse). So, I thought I would raise a bit of publicity for people about the hospital and then they would have a chance to visit. It's a wonderful place.'
Brother John's route takes in cities, towns and villages all along the coast of Britain, starting on England's south coast, up the east coast and on to Scotland, the west coast, Wales, Cornwall and then ending back in Winchester, the ancient and original capital of England, on June 17.
Brother John said:' I am travelling Monday to Friday and spending weekends resting, writing my weekly reports and catching up with friends. Along the way, I hope to chat with local people.'
Brother John would politely point out: 'Whilst the free bus pass typically only works in England, Brother John has received special dispensation from the many kind coach operators on his route through Wales, to travel for free. Anyone attempting a similar fundraising journey would need to seek the same permissions.'
Bus operators advise Chepstow-bound passengers not to be alarmed or confused if an elderly monk politely asks you about your day.
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