Decision made on veterans’ taxi ride to Worthing this year

Since 1949, The Taxi Charity for Military Veterans has escorted a group of veterans to Worthing for the day for fish and chips, an ice cream and to see friends.

But this year, the procession of black taxi cabs will not be seen driving into Worthing on June 16 because it has been cancelled due to coronavirus.

Ian Parsons, chairman of the Fulham-based charity, said: “Sadly, this isn’t the only trip our veterans have missed this year as we were also unable to travel to The Netherlands or to France [for the D-Day commemoriations].

“Hopefully, social distancing restrictions will have been lifted by next summer and we can begin planning a superb return to Worthing, a place which holds so many fabulous memories and where we have made so many friends over the years.”

Worthing mayor Lionel Harman said: “Past mayors have told me how much they have enjoyed hosting the veterans and I cannot express how important it is for Worthing to greet the convoy every year.

“I look forward to a time when we can welcome you back and hope that I get the opportunity to meet you all in the future.”

Visit www.taxicharity.org.uk to find out more about how the charity supports veterans.