The past twelve months have continued to be a difficult time not only for the general economy, but for the taxi trade in particular. However, The London Taxidrivers’ Charity for Children, with grateful thanks to the generosity of its many benefactors, has been able to replenish a depleted reserve, and maintain a high profile. The trustees look forward next year, to celebrating 85 years of assisting the many disadvantaged children of Greater London.

Not only was generated income considerably more than the previous year, total expenditure was reduced, so the Fund remains financially strong. The value of grants made was minimal this year, but did include once again, Christmas vouchers for the dependants of taxi drivers no longer able to provide for their family. The expenses incurred by the annual party at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House were greater than the previous year, as toys for the 600 children had to be purchased. Through sponsorship, the slightly increased cost of the outing to Southend was covered. Total income for the year was just under £45,000, and the total expenditure for the year a little over £27,000 of which only £720 was spent on general management and administration. Yet again, the trustees have shown that a charity can be run on only 1.6% of generated income, with every penny of the remainder being spent on giving hundreds of disadvantaged children a better quality of life.

David S. Lessman (Hon. Treasurer)