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Dame Joan Collins backs London taxi drivers providing free Remembrance Sunday journeys for military veterans
Dame Joan Collins has given her backing to Cabs for Veterans, the volunteer-led London taxi initiative providing free journeys for military veterans attending the annual Remembrance Sunday service at the Cenotaph in Whitehall.
The actress has praised the licensed London taxi drivers who donate their time and money to help former servicemen and women travel to the national commemorations, allowing them to pay their respects to fallen comrades.
Cabs for Veterans, previously known as Poppy Cabs, operates through the voluntary efforts of London cabbies who provide complimentary transport for veterans on one of the most significant dates in the military calendar.
Participating drivers cover their own journey costs and give up their working time to support the initiative, ensuring veterans can reach the commemorations without having to pay for their taxi journeys.
The scheme was established in 2009 by a group of London taxi drivers who recognised the difficulties some former military personnel could face when travelling into central London for the annual service.
Since its introduction, the initiative has become an established part of the London taxi trade's involvement in Remembrance Sunday, with volunteer drivers helping veterans attend the national act of remembrance.
Although the organisation has changed its name from Poppy Cabs to Cabs for Veterans, its central purpose remains unchanged. The initiative continues to focus on providing practical assistance to those who have served in the Armed Forces.
For participating taxi drivers, the commitment involves more than just offering a free fare. Volunteers contribute their time, fuel and vehicle running costs, supporting the operation without receiving payment for the journeys they undertake.
The annual service at the Cenotaph brings together veterans, serving military personnel, members of the Royal Family and representatives of organisations from across the country to remember those who lost their lives in conflict.
Dame Joan Collins' endorsement provides further public recognition for the volunteer drivers and their continued commitment to supporting the veteran community.
With Remembrance Sunday falling on 8 November this year, Cabs for Veterans is continuing the tradition started 17 years ago, helping former servicemen and women come together in London to remember those who served alongside them.
For London's licensed taxi trade, the initiative remains a longstanding example of drivers using their vehicles and professional knowledge to support an important national occasion.
Dame Joan Collins said: “Cabs for Veterans is an incredibly heart-warming effort coordinated by independent cabbies across London who give their time and money to ferry veterans on Remembrance Day to the Cenotaph so they can honour their fallen comrades, who gave their life for the freedoms we enjoy today.
“I support Cabs for Veterans and London Taxis in their efforts and applaud this poignant campaign.”
