Travelling Bradford lorry driver hopes to inspire others

Adam McTasney started sharing his travels on Instagram during the pandemic in 2020

A lorry driver from Bradford who documented his travels across Europe has said he is "living proof" that your start in life does not define you.

Adam McTasney, 36, grew up on an estate in Buttershaw and struggled through school, leaving with no GCSEs.

He joined the army where he learnt to drive a truck, and has now travelled to nearly every country in Europe.

Mr McTasney, who shares his travels on social media, said he now hopes to inspire and motivate others.

He has written a book called Shine from Within, which chronicles his journey and provides "a roadmap to living authentically".

"I never dreamed I'd one day have over 500,000 followers on social media and publish a book," he said.

The 36-year-old said he has saved thousands of pounds in rent and bills

"I was just a lad trying to figure things out. But joining the army gave me purpose, and getting my trucking license opened up a world of possibilities.

"Driving across Europe showed me new cultures and foods I'd never experienced before. I started sharing my adventures online, not expecting much.

"But soon people were commenting on how my optimistic outlook was uplifting."

Mr McTasney owns a house in Bradford, West Yorkshire, but rents out the property saving him thousands of pounds each year.

His job has also taken him to so many different destinations, despite never having been abroad in the first 30 years of his life.

"My path has been far from normal, but I'm living proof that where you start in life doesn't determine where you can go," he said.