Having been elected as Chairman in November 2016, I appreciate the immense responsibility which has been entrusted upon me for the future of the LTFUC, especially during these uncertain times. I am grateful for their confidence and support and I am so fortunate and privileged to work with such passionate and dedicated committee members who are so inspiring.
It is nevertheless crucial to know that the success of the Fund is due to the continued support of taxi drivers, helpers and benefactors who give their time and resources helping us to help less fortunate children and their families. It is also gratifying to know so many drivers, including those who are new to the taxi industry, are joining our ever-increasing list of helpers.
Organisations whether commercial or charitable are using technologies to further their aims and objectives. Our charity is no exception. Therefore, we would welcome any new committee members who are London Taxi Drivers and those who appreciate the use of technologies that could benefit our activities. For information do send an email to John at johnwgodfrey@hotmail.com or Steve at steven.bell100@ntlworld.com
Events & Outings
Sunday 22nd January 2017
Once again our 45th legendary Annual Christmas ‘Mad Hatter’s’ Tea Party took place in the Great Room of the Grosvenor House (a JW Marriott hotel), where we were hosts to 650-700 special needs and disadvantaged children. Together with entertainers, celebrities, management and staff of the hotel, plus the hard work of the LTFUC committee, it is always such a magical day for the children and all the guests and we sincerely thank all the volunteer entertainers and helpers who attend year after year.
Wednesday 12th July 2017
Our annual Taxi Trip took place, taking some 300 very deserving children and helpers to Southend-on-Sea, in a convoy of over 100 decorated London licensed taxis, and a great day was had by all. We sincerely give thanks to all the wonderful drivers and their helpers.
Sunday 24th September 2017
The London Taxi Drivers’ Fund for Underprivileged Children had the pleasure of being invited once again to attend the traditional annual London Pearly Kings & Queens Costermongers’ (19th anniversary) Harvest Festival Parade held at the Guildhall and this was greatly enjoyed by the Committee members who attended.
15th December 2017
I am delighted to inform you that on 15th December 2017 the Fund’s Honorary Secretary Malcolm Shaffron and myself accepted an invitation to the Motor Industry Public Affairs Association, (MIPAA) Board of Directors Annual Lunch. During the lunch, on behalf of the LTFUC, I accepted The MIPAA Chairman’s Award for outstanding contribution to public relations in respect of motoring and the industry since 1928, assisting children with special needs, including the annual seaside trips, which fulfil a unique need and contribute positively to the reputation of London taxi drivers.
Although 2017 has been an eventful year it has also not been without trauma. It was with sadness we heard that some drivers who supported the efforts of the charity for so many years, unfortunately, passed away. We take this opportunity to offer our sincere condolences to all their families. It was also with sorrow that committee members, together with their wives, attended the funeral of our late Life-President Bill Tyzack BEM who passed away on 27th April 2017. Many who knew Bill both within the cab trade and outside our industry mourn his passing. Some LTFUC Committee members, having served with Bill for many years, and sought his counsel on various matters. He was an individual who loved people and was a great mentor and special friend to all who knew him. This extraordinary man left a void in the life of Grace his wife and family. We all miss him very much.
During 2016, three long-term committee members decided to leave the charity to spend more time with the family or take on other commitments. David Lessman gave notice to the committee at the end of 2015 that he will be leaving as a full-time member at the end of 2016. Nevertheless, he has offered continued support when required. David had been a member for well over 35 years and taken on many responsibilities including Hon. Chairman, Hon. Treasurer, Sponsorship Liaison and other duties. His diligence in whatever capacity and responsibility undertaken during those many years has been of enormous benefit to all.
It was also unfortunate that both Bradley Winfield and Lilian Julier decided to leave. Bradley, a member for some years, took over the responsibility as Sponsorship Liaison. His single-mindedness and good humour encouraged his many contacts to give generous donations to the worthy causes undertaken by the charity. Lilian Julier, also a Committee member for many years, decided to resign during 2017. During her time with the LTFUC, she worked tirelessly. Identifying her experience within the financial department of one of the UK’s largest stores she was offered the role as Hon. Treasurer. Taking on such a significant responsibility in any organisation is a very daunting task. On behalf of my fellow Trustees, I take this opportunity to thank them for their enthusiasm, dedication and support and wish them well for the future.
In 2018 the charity will be celebrating 90 years helping special needs and vulnerable children. Various events are being organised including a Summer Gala Dinner & Ball on 23rd June 2018 at the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, Great Queen St, London WC2. For further information, please contact Sim at simeos.yiannikaris@gmail.com and myself at m.son@btinternet.com.
On behalf of the London Taxi Drivers’ Fund for Underprivileged Children our sincere thanks go to Sainsbury’s and The Big Yellow Group for their consideration and support throughout 2017. We are also deeply grateful for the generous donation made to us every year by the Taxi Driver of the Year Charity Fund.
We are also indebted to all our sponsors within the taxi industry and many other supporters who give of their time freely in the pursuit of providing some joy to less fortunate children and their families.
Michael B. Son BEM
Chairman