Wow, what a truly brilliant day out! A week has passed since the London Taxi Drivers’ Charity for Children (LTCFC) embarked on our historic 98th annual summer outing. While it was a major milestone for our charity’s long history, it also marked our 4th year heading to Hertfordshire Zoo – a venue that has truly become a favourite for our families.
Over these last four years, our annual convoy to the zoo has become a cornerstone of our summer programme, and to date we have had the privilege of taking nearly 1,000 London school children – predominantly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) on a day out tailored entirely to them.
Organising an outing for a child with complex needs can often feel like an overwhelming hurdle for parents, so by providing completely stress-free transport in style and coordination at the venue, alongside classmates and families, we know how much these trips are valued by them. Knowing they will look back on these days with fond memories for the rest of their lives is exactly why our drivers and committee gladly give up their time.
The feedback we’ve received from the schools highlights exactly why our drivers and the behind-the-scenes committee work so hard. Mark Wiltshire, one of our school contacts, shared these beautiful words with Ian, our school coordinator:
“Our children had a fabulous time at Hertfordshire Zoo! The event was well-organised, inclusive and run with tireless enthusiasm. The greatest care was taken with pupil’s safety and wellbeing. Our driver really looked after us and gave us a superb, smooth ride.”
Ultimately, the best judges of the day are the children themselves. Here are a few of our favourite quotes collected from the day:
* “I’ve never been in a taxi before!”
* “This was the best day ever. Can I come next year?”
* “Thank you LTCFC. It’s always a pleasure to come on this trip.”
An operation of this size simply cannot happen without an incredible network of partners, volunteers, and sponsors. We are profoundly grateful to the following people and organisations who are all truly worth their weight in gold:
Our Official 2026 Roll of Honour: Thank You!
* Peter & Roger Wilkinson from the Worshipful Company of Tin Plate Workers alias Wire Workers for sponsoring the outing, and for their personal support inhanding out posters, info packs, water, and Louie toys at ASDAs.
* DCL Insurance: For incredibly funding our drivers’ fuel, ensuring our convoy could make the journey smoothly.
* The Volunteer Drivers: Who gave up their time, their vehicles, and their hearts for these children.
* Hannah & Jordan Hertfordshire Zoo: Along with their entire staff of zookeepers, caterers, ice-cream sellers, and car park team.
* Molly & Family: For the beautiful handmade friendship bracelets and cards given to every driver.
* SPD & Mirna: For their invaluable support and hard work behind the scenes.
* A&S Motors (Julie, Stephanie Prayer, Shelley, Elliot, and family): Our incredible, long-time supporters of the cab trade.
* The AA: For escorting our convoy and providing total peace of mind on the road.
* Josh (Motorbike Rider): For riding ahead to put up direction signs and keep the convoy on track.
* Metropolitan Police: For seeing the convoy out of the start line safely.
* LMS Medical Team: For providing essential medical cover to keep everyone safe.
* Ears PLC Radio: For keeping our communications seamless throughout the day.
* Asda & Big Yellow: For their fantastic hospitality and logistical support.
Roll on summer 2027!
