I enjoyed reading your letters (Giving a thumbs-up to the lost art of hitching, 1 October). I have hitchhiked worldwide for more than 40 years, both for the challenge, and the need to get from A to B cheaply. Like Alison Griffies, I am astonished at how easily greying hair (and my beard) helps me catch a ride. Even more astonishing are the number of single women motorists who feel able to stop and help me on my way.
Wearing my kilt always helps of course, and I’ve hitchhiked thousands of miles in this, a 21st birthday present, most recently from Taunton to Edinburgh. My most unforgettable lift was with Rod Haines, a solicitor, in New Zealand, in 1980. His microbus had no steering wheel, and the driver no arms. He steered his specially adapted VW using his feet.
Quentin Henderson
Hawkhurst, Kent
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