Masked philanthropist calling himself 'London's Batman' gives cash to strangers

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 23:44 · Archive

A masked philanthropist calling himself 'London's Batman' has appeared on Instagram giving money to strangers for petrol, parking fines and other costs.

A masked philanthropist calling himself 'London's Batman' has begun a campaign of random acts of kindness across London, handing out cash to strangers and covering their expenses.

The anonymous figure first appeared on Instagram on 22 September, introducing himself in a video filmed in front of the London Eye. 'London, I am your Batman. For too long, we've been left without a hero. I will be the hero London deserves. Tell me your problems and I will make them go away,' he said. His Instagram account, @officiallondonsbatman, has since attracted almost 100,000 followers, with social media users speculating about his identity.

On 16 October, he visited a petrol station in south-east London and distributed £70 fuel vouchers to motorists. 'Fuel prices are too high,' he said. 'So it's time that someone brings them down. Free fuel for everyone.' Motorists estimated he had contributed as much as £3,500 towards other people's petrol bills. He has also paid parking penalty charges for hospital visitors and subsidised food at local outlets.

How it is being reported

• Who is London's Batman? Superhero costumed philanthropist buys petrol, pays parking fines and gives out £1 chicken and chips to hard-up BritsAn anonymous philanthropist who has disguised himself under a Batman costume has taken to orchestrating generous stunts that gives back to local communities.Daily Mail · 21 Oct, 23:23
• Who is 'London's batman'? Masked 'saviour' gives thousands to strangers in random acts of kindnessIs it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s London’s Batman... swooping in to pay for petrol, parking fines and even pothole repairsEvening Standard · 21 Oct, 16:01

In this story: London · London Eye

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