Three Roofers Complete Epic 1,000-mile Charity Little Bus Big Ride

IN THEIR heart-warming celebration of family, adventure, and community spirit, three roofing brothers from Nantwich have captured the nation’s hearts – and made a real difference – after completing an incredible 1,000-mile journey from Land’s End to John o’ Groats in their miniature 1940s bus.

Will, Andrew, and James Emerton, from Emerton Roofing started their unique adventure, dubbed the Little Bus Big Ride on Good Friday (18^th April).

Setting off from Cornwall’s Land’s End, the three roofers made for John o’ Groats at the northern tip of mainland Scotland.

The trip was completed in a lovingly restored 1948 Johnstones Midget Bus – once a Brighton fairground ride. Measuring just three feet high and eight feet long, their tiny green bus (matching the colours of the Emerton family’s roofing business) travelled at an average of just 12mph, but their spirit raced ahead.

Nantwich, Cheshire

Completing Little Bus Big Ride

After eight gruelling days on the road – through sunshine, showers, steep climbs, rolling hills, and even four seasons in a day – the brothers triumphantly reached John o’ Groats, on Friday 25^th April.

The mammoth journey wasn’t just a personal challenge. It marked the centenary of Emerton Roofing and raised an incredible £30,000 for three children’s charities close to their hearts: Hope House & Tŷ Gobaith, MPS Society UK, and The Children’s Society.

Crowds turned out in force to cheer the brothers on as they rolled through Nantwich on Easter Sunday, coinciding with the town’s bustling Jazz, Blues & Music Festival. The atmosphere was electric as locals lined the streets, with volunteers collecting donations and the brothers’ support team close behind.

Edinburgh, Scotland

The journey also attracted media attention from roofing trade press, BBC and local news outlets, with thousands across the country following their progress.

Speaking after their triumphant arrival, the Emerton brothers said: “We’re absolutely blown away by the support we’ve received from everyone – friends, family, complete strangers – cheering us on along the way.

“It’s been an unforgettable adventure, and to reach our £30,000 target for these amazing children’s charities means the world to us. Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts!”

You can still donate or catch up on the journey’s highlights here.

And while the tiny bus may have been small, the brothers’ achievement – and the difference they’re making – is truly huge.

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