Taxi Driver Online

Peterborough Evening Telegraph

December 24, 2007

Taxi drivers' ferry merry Christmas for elderly

MORE than 100 senior citizens will have a very merry Christmas this year thanks to Peterborough's big-hearted taxi drivers.

Drivers have once again offered to give their time for free and pick up and collect the pensioners so they can celebrate December 25 at the Salvation Army Citadel in New England.

Volunteers from firms across the city will carry out the unpaid work so that people who would otherwise be spending the day alone can share it with others.

They will enjoy a traditional three-course Christmas dinner and entertainment and watch the Queen's Speech.

Peterborough city councillor Charles Swift, who set up the event, said: "The taxi drivers have really come up trumps.

"They are always very willing and are extremely considerate and courteous.

"It is not always an easy job. Some of the people they will be taking are severely disabled, so they have to deal with that. But they never complain."

The fleet of taxis will hit the streets in the morning. When they arrive at the Citadel, the senior citizens will be offered a mince pie and a steaming cuppa. They will then be invited to take part in a non-obligatory service before tucking into lunch.

This year, two volunteers have offered an hour of their time in which they will perform country music, old time songs and carols.

Mayor of Peterborough Marion Todd will also attend and she will be chauffeured by councillor Keith Sharp.

Manager of A to B Eurocars in London Road Nigel Klipston said: "We do this every year.

"We never had a shortage of drivers who are happy to help out. they seem to enjoy it."

Taxi enforcement officer at the council Ken Gray said: "The drivers do a great job. Several companies across Peterborough take part, and the drivers do it for free."

A spokesman for City Cabs, which is based in Lincoln Road, added: "The taxi drivers like doing this."

This year, a total of 28 volunteers will be helping out at the Salvation Army to carry out duties such a cooking, looking after guests and tidying up.

If you would like to contribute towards the costs of the day, drop into the citadel in Bourges Boulevard, or call 01733 564540.
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