The Brother on a Bus

At 85, Brother John Green is in his final weeks of an eight-week journey around the British Isles using nothing but public buses and donated accommodation, raising funds for The Hospital of St Cross & Almshouse of Noble Poverty.

Closes 25/07/2025

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We are a UK registered charity founded around 1132. Our fine medieval buildings have provided food and shelter for hundreds of years. The principal activity of the Hospital continues to be the provision of individual, private apartments for a living community of about twenty-five elderly men. We are also responsible for caring for and maintaining the Grade 1 listed buildings. At the heart of the Hospital’s inner quadrangle is a wonderful Norman church. Nearby stand a classic medieval hall and kitchen, a Tudor cloister.

Story

Meet Brother Green: The Brother on a Bus

At 85 years young, the indomitable Brother John Green is several weeks into on an extraordinary adventure—an eight-week journey around the British Isles using nothing but public buses, staying at other almshouses and donated accommodation from everyone from mayors to bishops.

Launched on May 1st, 2025, Brother Green’s “Brother on a Bus” tour isn’t just about the miles he’ll cover. It’s a heartfelt mission to raise funds for our charity, share the story of our historic Hospital, and build excitement for our 900th anniversary in 2032.

A beloved resident Brother, known for his bookbinding skills, volunteer work, and boundless energy, Brother Green will be interviewing fellow travellers, highlighting sites of historic interest, and blogging weekly reflections from his Sunday rest stops.

His efforts have already caught the attention of The King—who, as President of the Almshouse Association, has offered his good wishes—as well as the Bishop of Winchester and HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire. With support at the highest levels and Stagecoach onboard for providing much of the us travel, Brother Green’s journey promises to be a national celebration of heritage, community, and good old-fashioned British grit.

Want to support Brother Green on his journey and preserve the stunning setting and charitable work of the Hospital for generations to come?

Donate here or if you prefer send a cheque payable The Hospital of St Cross to:

The Hospital of St Cross

St Cross Road

Winchester

SO23 9SD

Donation summary

Total
£5,076.52
+ £1,000.00 Gift Aid
Online
£5,076.52
Offline
£0.00
Direct
£5,076.52
Fundraisers
£0.00

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