Following the news that the yearly taxi trip to Troon was to be cancelled, the Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund who run the outing have announced a special ‘Lockdown to Troon’ online event will be held in its place.
A Historic Event
‘Taxi to Troon’ has been running since 1945 and was due to be celebrating its 75th year on the 17th of June. Glasgow firm TOA has been running the charitable project providing children with health difficulties a fun day out to the seaside since its conception and it has always held an important spot in the diary for local cabbies who volunteer their time to support the trip. Cab Direct has also been proud to sponsor the event for many years, sending a brightly decorated black cab filled with giveaways on the day. In recent years more than 300 children have been able to enjoy the trip and it has always provided a day to remember for all.
Online Outing
The charity behind the scheme, the Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund, was determined that the children wouldn’t miss out this year and have decided on a digital version to take its place. They have invited taxi drivers alongside other volunteers to contribute to the online event by sending photographs, videos and messages. Stephen Lalley, Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund Treasurer, said: “We have created this one-off, fun event so everyone can get involved and help these young people forget about the disappointment of not going to Troon this year. Everyone can take part from home – just send pictures, a short video, a selfie or a message – and help fill the day with fun, colour and happiness.”
Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund also plans to host a party in every school that has children who usually attend the Troon visit. When schools are back in attendance and it is deemed safe to do so, the charity will arrange with each venue how they can set this up and ensure it can still be fully enjoyed with the health and safety of the children in mind. They have pledged that the charity will fund all of the entertainment and catering for every event.
If you are a taxi driver or would simply like to be involved, you can join in by sending pictures, videos or a message of support to admin@gtof.org.uk by the 10th June. These will then be shared on Glasgow Taxi Outing Funds social media channels throughout the day on Wednesday, 17th June and can be found using hashtag #LockdownToTroon.
Source: https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/18477618.glasgow-taxis-takes-annual-fun-day-troon-online-event-cancelled-due-coronavirus/