Alan Beckett, 68, completed the unique challenge over five days, setting off on Monday 1st June from Fair Havens, Havens Hospices’ adult hospice, where he was waved off by staff and family. He arrived at John o’ Groats on Friday 5th June, where his family were waiting to welcome him. 

Alan said, “I have never been to John o’ Groats before, so when I got my bus pass at 66 I wondered if I could make it all the way there using it. That’s when I decided to make it a challenge and raise money for a good cause.” 

Having spent years as a taxi driver, Alan had a personal connection to Havens Hospices long before taking on the challenge. “I would pick up a lot of people from Havens Hospices over the years and always heard first-hand the impact it was having on the local community. The staff were always the nicest people. Then my daughter started working at Fair Havens in the care team and told me how they rely on charitable donations to continue providing their care.” 

Alan faced a few challenges on his journey. One specific challenge was his bus pass not working on routes throughout Scotland, however he was undeterred and told the people he met along the way what he was doing and why, with many choosing to donate to his cause. As well as navigating bus routes, Alan’s accommodation was equally unplanned, with Alan wild camping on some nights and seeking out local Airbnbs on others. 

Reflecting on his journey, Alan said “The most memorable part was the help and kindness of strangers and the lovely chats I had with people. When I reached Newcastle it was lashing down with rain and there had been an accident on the roads meaning buses were seriously delayed. It was getting late and I needed to find somewhere to spend the night. A complete stranger arranged accommodation for me for the night — for free! I was overwhelmed by that gesture.” 

So far Alan has raised an incredible £1,720 for Havens Hospices, which provides expert care and support to babies, children, young people and adults across Essex with incurable conditions. The charity must raise £208,000 every week to continue its vital work, and it is thanks to supporters like Alan that this is possible. 

You can still support Alan by donating at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/alan-beckett-bus-trip  

If you would like to take on a fundraising challenge for Havens Hospices get in touch with their Fundraising Team by visiting https://www.havenshospices.org.uk/support-us/fundraising/fundraise-your-way-for-havens-hospices/  

Published on 17th June 2026