Andrew Hulbert’s charity road trip

Bicester Man Drives 3000km Across 10 Countries to Raise Funds for Mental Health Charity – February 2025

With the support of the Bicester and District Twinning Association, local philanthropist Andrew Hulbert has completed a remarkable solo road trip spanning 3,000km and 10 European countries – all in aid of a vital mental health charity.

Val Pearce BDTA Chair, Richard Mould BDTA vice-chair, Damien Maguire Bicester Mayor and Andrew Hulbert

Originally planning a 2000km route through Poland, Germany, and France, the 38-year-old adventurer extended his journey to include visits to all three of Bicester’s twin towns: Czernichów in Poland, Neunkirchen-Seelscheid in Germany, and Essarts-en-Bocage in France. What began as a four-day fundraising drive quickly became an ambitious international mission to raise awareness and funds for Nai’s House, a local charity that provides mental health support for young people.

Reflecting on his journey, Mr Hulbert said:

“Driving 3000km across 10 countries for charity was an incredible experience that taught me so much. I learned the importance of having a plan but staying flexible – some nights, I didn’t even know which country I’d end up sleeping in.

“The kindness of people was overwhelming. From spontaneous donations by strangers to locals going out of their way to help me, it was incredibly humbling.

“By avoiding major cities, I discovered a side of Europe that most tourists never see – from Austria’s lush countryside to the rolling vineyards of France’s Champagne region.

“But most importantly, I learned that sometimes you just have to go for it – stop overthinking and make it happen.”

Thanks to generous donations and his tireless determination, Mr Hulbert raised over £2,000 for Nai’s House, doubling his original fundraising target of £1,000. The money will go towards providing vital support services, therapy, and safe spaces for young people struggling with mental health challenges.

“We’re incredibly proud to have raised double our goal,” he added. “To know that this journey will help make a real difference for young people in our community means the world.”

Andrew is no stranger to fundraising challenges. Over the years, he’s taken on 10 skydives, completed the Three Peaks Challenge, endured multiple Tough Mudder events, and run numerous half marathons – all in the name of supporting worthy causes.

His most recent journey not only celebrated Bicester’s twinning partnerships but also highlighted the power of individual action and community support in making a meaningful impact.