Caring cabbies have once again pulled out all the stops to make this year’s Edinburgh Taxi Trade Kids Outing a day to remember for around a hundred children. Drivers took time off and decorated their cabs with everything from balloons and streamers to giant sweets and even a shark for this colourful charity event that gives a day out to the beach for children with special needs, life-limiting conditions and terminal illnesses.
“Thanks to the big hearts and creative efforts of all the taxi drivers, these children get to be centre of attention and enjoy an amazing day out that they’ll always remember.”
One of the Highlights of the Year
The event has become a highlight of Edinburgh’s calendar and takes place on the second Tuesday of June every year. Taxi drivers give up their time to take the children and their parents for a day out at the beach. Now in its 71st year, passers-by also enjoyed watching the convoy of brightly decorated taxis as it set off from Edinburgh Zoo and down the Royal Mile.
The parade then continued along the coast road through Port Seton and Gullane before ending up in Dirleton, where everyone taking part enjoyed the rest of the day beside the seaside with fun and games at the beach.
Big Hearts and Creative Efforts
Sandra Docherty, General Manager of Allied Vehicles, commented: “We’re delighted to be involved in this very special day. All the drivers give up their time and go to huge efforts to dress up their cabs to make it a real spectacle for the kids that take part, as well as the crowds who turn out to cheer us on.
“Thanks to the big hearts and creative efforts of all the taxi drivers, these children get to be centre of attention and enjoy an amazing day out that they’ll always remember.”
Getting into the Party Spirit
Hundreds of people turned out to watch the police escort the wacky convoy as it drove through Scotland’s capital. Plenty of local dignitaries also turned out to support the cavalcade, including Scotland’s Transport Minister Humza Yousaf. As is now tradition, many of the drivers, children and parents taking part were armed with water pistols and drenched the crowds as they passed. However, nobody minded too much as the sun made a welcome appearance.
The event also raises funds for local charities. Organisations that have been supported by the parade include The Richmond’s Hope Trust, Cash for Kids, Dance Base’s Community Outreach Programme, The Sick Kids Friends Foundation, Edinburgh Zoo’s Dreamnight and Royal National Lifeboat Institution.
Well done to all involved.