Karl Bushby ends 28-year journey at mother’s house in Hull

Years after making a promise, Bushby’s mother, Angela, awaited his return at her home in Sutton Park, the place where she had raised him. Their reunion carried with it a sense of fulfillment and relief after such a long separation.

Upon meeting his mother, Bushby was nearly speechless. Speaking to the BBC shortly after, he described the moment as surreal, marking the conclusion of a remarkable 28-year journey. His mother, who had not seen him in ten years, warmly asked, “Where have you been?” She later expressed to the press her happiness at having him back and shared her sense of relief.

Bushby himself revealed that he was still adjusting to being home, describing his thoughts as “one big blurry mess.” When asked about his plans moving forward, he stated simply, “I have a story to tell.” Among his next ventures is collaborating with renowned German filmmaker Werner Herzog on a documentary, alongside writing a second book detailing his travels. The magnitude of his return was something he admitted never to have envisioned.

In the city center, Bushby was warmly welcomed by the lord mayor, Maria Coward, and a large crowd. He expressed his astonishment at the reception, saying, “There has never been a welcome home like this, I am sure. It’s madness. An enormous thank you.” He further acknowledged the support he received during his journey with the words, “The biggest team – Earth – got me back here.” On a previous day, when crossing the Humber Bridge into East Yorkshire, he was joyfully reunited with his 36-year-old son Adam, his 12-year-old granddaughter whom he had never met, as well as his father and brothers. Reflecting on that moment, Bushby described the encounter as “amazing.”