Leigh Dargan appointed as new Master of Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers
- Perry Richardson
- Sep 30
- 2 min read
The Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers (WCHCD) has named Leigh Dargan as its new Master Hackney Carriage Driver, taking over the role from Dan Heath on 2 September 2025.
Leigh becomes only the fourth woman to be appointed Master in the Company’s history. Her installation took place at Cutler’s Hall, a building steeped in City of London tradition since 1285 and home to one of the oldest livery companies.
Leigh brings a varied background to the position. She passed the Knowledge in 2022 and has since worked as a licensed London taxi driver. Before joining the industry, she had a career in both professional sport and the motor industry. She played rugby for Saracens, Irish Exiles and was part of the Ireland Grand Slam team. Away from the pitch, she held senior sales roles at Sovereign Automotive and Proximo.
Outgoing Master Dan Heath, whose term ended this month, will remain involved with the Company as Deputy Master.
The WCHCD is the 104th Livery Company of the City of London, granted its livery status in 2004 and receiving a Royal Charter in 2013. The Company manages a charitable trust, best known for organising the annual Magical Taxi Tour. Now in its 31st year, the event sees London taxi drivers take around 200 seriously ill or disabled children on a three-day trip to Disneyland Paris.
The WCHCD also maintains educational links with Royal Docks Academy in Newham and provides ongoing support to both students and staff.
Its connection with the armed forces is longstanding. One notable historic link is Private Frederick Hitch VC, a former Hackney Carriage Driver who served with distinction at the Battle of Rorke’s Drift. That association continues today with the Company recently signing the Armed Forces Covenant. The aim is to support former service personnel in finding routes into the taxi industry, either through undertaking the Knowledge or applying their existing mechanical and technical skills in vehicle support roles.
The appointment of Leigh Dargan marks the continuation of the Company’s commitment to tradition, public service and modern industry development.
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