A hitchhiker's triptych

John Gardiner worked as a journalist and media advisor for more than 40 years.

He has travelled extensively across the world throughout his life.

His book A Hitchhiker's Triptych covers six months of his first journey into England, Wales, Ireland and Scotland during the turbulent days of the early 1970s.

It was the time of the Troubles in Ireland. The Arabs also were holding the West to ransom with oil embargoes.

John wanders head-on into these and other major world issues during his hitchhiking adventures.His book is a superb exploration of life on the road during the 1970s.

How easy it was to hitchhike in those days. Stick out a thumb and land a ride. A Hitchhiker's Triptych is intriguing. It explores a wanderer's life during far simpler times.

Decades before the internet and instant news feeds. This is a journey pre-digital. A step back in time where adventure is achieved simply by standing beside a highway and sticking out a thumb.

Wonders and wisdom found over that next hill.