Pair hitch-hike . . . from Australia to Shropshire

Two men have completed a remarkable 12,000-mile journey hitch-hiking from Australia to Shropshire in three months – making it home just in time for Christmas.

Richard McCulloch and Michael Egan, both 27 and from Church Stretton, hitch-hiked across 20 countries to raise a pint at their local pub tonight.

The pair will now celebrate with family and friends. Mr Egan said they had worked in an Australian mining town for months before deciding to embark on their trip.

He said: "We had saved up some money and wanted to be home for Christmas. It's brilliant to be back home, just to see the rolling hills and have a bath have been great."