More than 50 London black cabs roll into Worthing as military veterans enjoy unforgettable seaside day
- Perry Richardson
- 30 minutes ago
- 3 min read
More than 50 London black cabs carrying military veterans travelled in convoy to Worthing on Monday 14 July as the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans held its annual summer seaside outing.
The convoy set off from South Holmwood in Surrey, where volunteer licensed taxi drivers, veterans, supporters and volunteers gathered before making the journey to the Sussex coast. Along the route, the procession of black cabs was greeted by members of the public, who waved and applauded as the convoy passed through towns and villages.
This year’s outing welcomed 13 Second World War veterans, alongside former servicemen and women who served during the Falklands conflict, in Northern Ireland, Korea, Iraq and Afghanistan. The event was supported through a grant from The National Lottery Community Fund and reflects the charity’s continued work supporting veterans from different generations of military service.
On arrival at Worthing Pier, the veterans enjoyed a traditional fish and chip lunch before spending the afternoon with their volunteer drivers, family members and supporters. With high summer temperatures throughout the day, ice creams were provided before afternoon entertainment began. The event was also attended by Paul Brewer, Chief Executive of Adur & Worthing Councils, and Worthing Deputy Mayor Councillor Henna Chowdhury.
During the lunch, Taxi Charity Chairman Colin Mills thanked the volunteer London taxi drivers, supporters and veterans for their continued commitment to the charity.
Mills said: “To our incredible volunteer London taxi drivers, thank you. You are the heart of this organisation. The care, commitment and friendship you show our veterans, not just today but throughout the year, is truly remarkable. Every mile you drive and every hour you give is appreciated far more than you probably realise.
“To our ambassadors, volunteers, fundraisers and supporters, thank you for everything you do behind the scenes. Whether organising events, fundraising or simply being there for our veterans, your dedication enables the Taxi Charity to continue delivering experiences like today.
“And most importantly, to our veterans. Thank you for your service, your courage and the example you continue to set. It is a privilege to spend time with you, to hear your stories and to ensure that your service and sacrifice are never forgotten. The friendships we have built over the years are incredibly special and days like today remind us that the Taxi Charity is about much more than outings. It is about belonging, companionship and looking after one another.”
Volunteer London cab driver and military veteran Ben Ellis said the Worthing outing remained one of the highlights of the charity’s calendar.
Ellis said: “The Worthing trip is one of those days that reminds you why being part of the Taxi Charity is so special. Spending time with the veterans, hearing their stories and seeing how much they enjoy the day is a real privilege.
“It’s also brilliant to catch up with my fellow cab drivers and all the supporters who make the event happen year after year. There’s a real sense of friendship and teamwork, and it’s an honour to play a small part in giving something back to the men and women who have given so much for our country.”
The annual Worthing trip continues a tradition that has become a fixture in the Taxi Charity calendar, combining a classic British seaside day out with opportunities for veterans and volunteer drivers to strengthen friendships built over many years. The charity, founded in 1948, relies entirely on volunteer London cab drivers who donate their time and vehicles to transport veterans to social events, commemorations and international remembrance visits.
