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 on Sunday 24th September 2017 at the Guildhall and I went along with the Fund’s Honorary Secretary, Malcolm Shaffron and our wives Maureen and Evelyn to witness this colourful, traditional and spectacular event.

Scores of Pearly Kings & Queens from all corners of London had gathered for this festival, more than 130 years on from when road sweeper Henry Croft covered his finest ‘whistle and flute’ (suit) in shiny white buttons in aid of the City’s poor, with the modern day Pearlies continuing his mission and doing such great charity work.

It was a lovely warm and sunny day and the crowds were out in abundance enjoying the brilliant traditional entertainment in the Guildhall Yard. When this finished, we then joined the procession lead by the Pearlies, Chelsea Pensioners and many Mayors through the streets of London to attend St. Mary-le-Bow Church, where the pealing of the Cockney Bow Bells welcomed the congregation for a thanksgiving service. Many tourists and onlookers lined the City streets waving, taking photos and cheering the parade along, which as usual was a great experience.

Once again our congratulations must go to Doreen Golding BEM, Pearly Queen of Bow Bells and of the Old Kent Road (Freeman of the City of London) for organising such a brilliant event.

May I take this opportunity to thank all the wonderful Pearlies for continuing to help and support our charity and all the many charities in London and the Greater London area.