A SHEFFIELD pensioner has completed the trip of a lifetime, travelling from Berwick Upon Tweed to Land's End by bus - for free.
Christine Jackson, aged 66, from Kelham Island, made the 700-mile journey across England using her new English Concessions Bus Pass.
The pass allows senior citizens and disabled passengers free travel on bus services anywhere in England from 9.30am until 11pm on weekdays, and all day at weekends and on Bank Holidays.
Christine, together with her best friend Manju Ghosh, from Greater Manchester, began her challenge in Berwick Upon Tweed and reached Land's End 13 days later.
Christine said: "We wanted an adventure and we have certainly had one. It really has been a trip of a lifetime and we have loved every minute.
"The places we visited have been lovely and the buses have been reliable, regular and comfortable. Some drivers even gave us a running commentary along the route as we passed through new places."
Along the way the pair passed through Newcastle, Darlington, Selby, York, Doncaster, Sheffield, Oxford and Bath.
But despite a busy schedule they still managed to squeeze in some sight-seeing trips including a walk around Durham Castle, a visit to a book shop in Alnwick, and a stop at Selby Abbey.
Christine said: "We have been astonished at all the publicity we have received. From the day we started this trip we have had journalists and photographers travelling with us. It has been quite an experience.
"Our free pass has enabled us to travel the country for free, see some fantastic sights, and have the trip of a lifetime."
But Christine was one of the lucky ones. Around 40,000 South Yorkshire OAPs are still waiting for their new passes, nearly three weeks after the scheme came into effect.
Transport Executive bosses say they hope to have the remainder delivered by the end of this month.
In South Yorkshire residents are also entitled to free travel on trams, trains and buses from 9am on weekdays and all day at weekends and Bank Holidays.
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