Around-the-World Walker Faces Obstacle at Channel Tunnel
Karl Bushby, a 57-year-old former paratrooper from Hull, who embarked on a walking journey around the world in 1998, has been denied access to the Channel Tunnel for the final segment of his expedition. Bushby, who started his 36,000-mile trek from Chile, has now reached Belgium and aims to arrive in Calais, France, by September.
His challenge stipulates that he must not use any form of transport. However, his formal request to use a service tunnel within the Channel Tunnel was rejected by Eurotunnel on Tuesday. A spokesperson for Eurotunnel cited safety and operational concerns as the reasons for the refusal.
Eurotunnel Cites Safety and Operational Risks
A Eurotunnel spokesperson stated, "We have carefully considered his request and explored a range of possible options. In this instance, regretfully we are unable to accommodate Mr Bushby's wishes." The spokesperson explained that closing the Service Tunnel for the estimated 15 hours to two days required for Bushby's passage would pose a safety risk to passenger services and disrupt essential maintenance work. They emphasized that access is strictly controlled, and any activity within the tunnel demands detailed planning and specialized support, with the safety of passengers, staff, and infrastructure being the highest priority.
Bushby Considers Alternative Crossings
Reacting to the decision, Bushby expressed his team's need to discuss the matter further. He indicated a willingness to swim the Channel if necessary, stating, "If I have to swim across the channel then I am prepared to do that." This would not be his first aquatic challenge; in 2006, he swam across gaps in the ice of the Bering Strait, and in 2024, he became the first person to complete a 186-mile (300km) swim across the Caspian Sea.
Bushby had previously voiced concerns last year about potentially being denied access to the Eurotunnel, noting that even Russia had granted him passage despite international tensions. He plans to conclude his remarkable journey at his childhood home, where his mother awaits his return.
Source: Briton on around-the-world walk since 1998 refused access to Channel Tunnel for final leg