The success of the London Taxi Drivers’ Charity for Children’s outing on 12th July to Paradise Wildlife Park in Hertfordshire was heart-warming, and made possible through the coordination and planning between the LTCFC Committee and Paradise Wildlife Park Management, with the generous financial support from The Worshipful Company of Tin Plate Workers alias Wire Workers.
Departing from the Asda Isle of Dogs Superstore added a new dimension to the event, and the charity is grateful to Asda’s management and staff for accommodating the convoy of 58 London taxis and 300 guests, including children and carers. Special thanks to Mary from Asda for ensuring a smooth departure for the convoy.
The excitement and anticipation of the guests was evident as they arrived at the park. The first job was the judging of the decorated taxis with Alan Hurst winning 1st place for having the most amount of balloons on his taxi following the journey to the park, 2nd place went to Louise Fowler, 3rd place to Greg Smith – all three were given a Bluetooth Speaker, but well done to all of the drivers for making a grand effort with the balloons and making our convoy such a colourful spectacle. The day was filled with joy and wonder as families explored over 800 animals, learning about different species and the importance of wildlife conservation and natural habitats. The collaboration with Paradise Wildlife Park allowed LTCFC to create an unforgettable experience for the families, including a journey back in time through the World of Dinosaurs with its impressive animatronic dinosaur adventure trail.
It’s commendable how the LTCFC and Paradise Wildlife Park worked and provided meaningful opportunities to families, especially those with additional needs and from disadvantaged backgrounds. Since its founding in 1928, LTCFC has been dedicated to creating lasting memories for disadvantaged and special needs children, their families, and carers through unique experiences organised by volunteer London licensed taxi drivers.
The support from Her Majesty Queen Camilla as the LTCFC Patron further emphasises the importance of their work. The dedication of both charities to improving people’s lives and making the world a better place is truly admirable.
The event’s success would not have been possible without the contributions of various organisations and individuals, including Location Medical Services, Automobile Association, EARS Plc (loan of two-way radio equipment) and photographers Dean Euesden, Ken Cameron, Leah van Zyl (Leah van Zyl Photography) and Sean Paul Day (London Taxi Radio Media & News) who captured the day’s special moments.
Above all, sincere thanks to all the Licenced London Taxi Drivers who generously gave their time to the children.