Taxi charity outing to Troon cancelled? Not to worry as online party to be held for 300 kids instead

The Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund charity will make sure more than 300 children don’t miss out despite the enforced cancellation of this year’s trip – by holding a one-off “Lockdown To Troon” party online.

The 75th annual Glasgow Taxi outing to Troon was due to take place in three weeks – on Wednesday, 17 June – however it was cancelled back in March following the COVID-19 outbreak.

However the charity behind the famous trip determined that the children shouldn't miss out, and have today announced a special “Lockdown To Troon” event which will see all the colour, fun and excitement shared on social media for one year only.

They are asking taxi drivers, families, school staff, volunteers and members of the public to send their pictures, videos and memories of past outings, or messages of support, in advance to be shared on the day.

Drivers can also dress up themselves or their taxis for the day if they wish, to help put smiles on the faces of the 300+ young people with additional support needs who would normally make the trip to Ayrshire and back.

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.”

Anyone wishing to join in the fun should use WeTransfer.com to email their pictures or videos to admin@gtof.org.uk. These will be shared on the Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund’s Facebook and Twitter pages on the day (17 June) from 10am until 4pm, where people can also follow via the hashtag #LockdownToTroon. Those contributing in advance are asked to send their content by Wednesday, 10 June if possible.

Dougie McPherson, Chairman of Glasgow Taxis, one of the biggest backers of the trip, said: “Glasgow Taxis is a proud supporter of the famous outing and we are all 100% behind Lockdown To Troon to make sure the children don't miss out this year. I'm sure many of our drivers who make the annual trip won't miss the chance to dress up on Wednesday 17 June and we'll be encouraging all staff, members and drivers to join in the fun too."

In addition, the Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund have also announced they will host a party in each of the schools where children missed out going to Troon. These will take place when schools return, with arrangements made to determine when is the best and safest time for them to take place while respecting the guidelines and ‘new normal’. All entertainment and catering will be provided by the Outing Fund charity.