.jpg)
Wirral driver named Britain’s Taxi Hero after 13 years of Christmas toy appeals
A Wirral taxi driver who has organised an annual Christmas toy appeal for 13 years has been named Britain’s Taxi Hero 2026.
Alan Gilfoyle received the inaugural Acorn Taxi Hero Award after his appeal brought together friends, neighbours and local businesses to collect thousands of toys for children and families across the Wirral. He also buys presents himself, with his home regularly filling with gifts before they are distributed.
The awards attracted more than 1,700 nominations from across the UK. Acorn Insurance said the nominations described drivers going beyond passenger transport to help people in emergencies, support vulnerable passengers and assist their communities.
Almost a third of nominations (32%) recognised drivers for emergency response, passenger safety or safeguarding. They included accounts of drivers assisting people with serious medical problems, intervening when someone was in distress and helping people out of dangerous situations.
A further 11% of nominations involved help for expectant mothers. Two described babies being born in taxis, while others credited drivers with getting pregnant passengers to hospital and reassuring them during difficult journeys.
More than a quarter of nominees (26%) were recognised for supporting disabled passengers or people with additional needs. Nominations described help with medical appointments and other journeys, as well as patient assistance that enabled passengers to remain independent and connected to their communities.
Gilfoyle’s community work also continues beyond the toy appeal. Earlier this year, he completed 100 press-ups every day throughout March in memory of his late mother, raising hundreds of pounds for a local cancer charity. Nominations also praised his generosity towards passengers and his readiness to help others.
Gilfoyle, who had already won the North West regional award, receives a £1,000 Amazon gift card and the inaugural Britain’s Taxi Hero trophy.
Acorn Insurance, which describes itself as the UK’s largest taxi insurance
specialist, said it launched the awards to recognise acts of bravery, kindness and dedication by taxi drivers.
Ash Coakley, Head of Taxi Insurance at Acorn Group, said: “When people think of a taxi driver, they think of getting from A to B. These nominations tell a much bigger story. Almost a third were recognised for helping in emergencies or keeping people safe, and we heard extraordinary accounts of babies being born in taxis and drivers stepping in when vulnerable passengers needed them most.
“Just as striking were the quieter acts of kindness – helping someone reach a hospital appointment, maintaining their independence or making sure they don’t feel alone. Those everyday contributions can be life-changing, yet often go unrecognised.
“Alan is a wonderful national winner because he embodies that same spirit of service. For 13 years, he has given his own time, energy and money to bring happiness to children in his community. His story, and those of all our finalists, show why Britain’s taxi drivers deserve to be celebrated.”
Alan Gilfoyle, Britain’s Taxi Hero 2026, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have won. The toy appeal started because I wanted to do something for local children, and it’s grown thanks to the generosity of so many people across the Wirral. I never expected recognition like this.
“Taxi drivers see a lot of life, and we’re often there when people need a hand, a friendly face or simply someone to listen. We’re part of the communities we work in, and I hope these awards remind people of the good that drivers do every day, often without anyone knowing about it.”
