The London Taxi Benevolent Association was formed at the Bedford Arms, Dawes Road, Fulham, on February 27th 1948. Its object then, as now, was to help War Disabled persons, in their homes and hospitals, throughout London and the Home Counties, by providing entertainment, outings, and much needed specialised equipment.

The drivers provide their taxis, services, and time free. This year on 10 June 2008 to mark their 60th Anniversary they invited BGWS to represent the Gurkha veterans and provided two taxis with drivers for the whole day. Mr Prakash Gurung (PR) led a team of eight comprising of; Mr Jit Bahadur Gurung, Mr Harka Tamang, Mr Chandra Budhathoki, Mr Laxmi Pun, Mr Chhabilal Pun, Mr Prem Bahadur Bura, and Mr Bhim Chandra Gurung.

The taxis drove the BGWS team from Gurkha Bhawan at 0900 hours to South Holmwood, a small village near Dorking where the rest of the veterans, hundreds, were gathered. We were then treated to breakfast provided for all by the village. This was the focal point for all to gather then circa 300 taxis conveyed us all to Worthing near Brighton. On arrival we were led to the Town hall and to our surprise met by Britain’s oldest gentleman Mr Henry Allingham(112 years!) one of the now only three surviving WW1 veteran. A full course meal washed down by plenty of drinks all courtesy of the Association was enjoyed by one and all followed by the President Mr Harry Joel MBE’s speech where he welcomed the Gurkhas and even mentioned the unfairness and added “we are not politicians but we support your campaign”

This is a very high profiled annual event where VIP guests in the past have included the Royal family. It was indeed an honour to be invited and to represent the Gurkhas. As we left around 1800 hours music was still playing in the hall while the memory of a great day instilled deep within.

Prakash PR