The Last Overland

Singapore to London: The Return Journey of an Iconic Land Rover Expedition

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The Last Overland

By: Alex Bescoby

Narrated by: Alex Bescoby

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About this listen

THE STORY BEHIND ALL 4'S POWERFUL DOCUMENTARY SERIES

In 1955, a young TV producer named David Attenborough was approached by six graduates determined to drive the entire length of Eurasia from London to Singapore. It was the "unclimbed Everest of motoring"—many had tried, none had succeeded. Sensing this time might be different, Attenborough gave them enough film reel to cover their attempt. The 19,000-mile journey, captured in the BBC's series Travellers' Tales and in Tim Slessor's book The First Overland, captivated a nation. But fifty years later, Attenborough said he didn't think the journey could be made again today.

Inspired and desperate to prove Attenborough wrong, Alex Bescoby contacted Tim Slessor and together they planned to recreate the trip, this time from Singapore to London. In awe of the unstoppable Tim, and haunted by his own grandfather's deterioration due to tragedy and dementia, Alex soon finds himself on the defining trip of his lifetime and discovers how the world has changed for better—and for worse—since the First Overland.

Expeditions & Discoveries

Travel Writing & Commentary

World

Singapore

England

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Critic reviews

“This is a fabulous adventure–reckless, insanely ambitious and filled with sweat, tears and laughter...irresistible reading.” JOANNA LUMLEY

Most relevant

So much is included in this book. The highs and lows of the overland journey. The frustrating boarder crossings and the difficulty of nursing a 65 year old vehicle so far over some really challenging tracks. However what stands out for me was Alex’s documenting his feelings about his 87 year old hero from the First Overland expedition. Then getting to know the last minute addition to the team. One who hadn’t planned on going, an unknown, untried individual. This is all wrapped up with feeling linked to Alex’s grandfather who was suffering the distressing disease of dementia. The the emotion of it all is so well conveyed. Beautifully read by the author. A really interesting book. 👏👏