MORE than 300 kids with additional support for learning needs were treated to a day to remember as the Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund held its 73rd annual children’s trip to Troon.

Around 100 taxi drivers donated their time for free to transport the kids, along with their parents and carers, in style to an unforgettable day at the seaside.

Members of the public lined the street at Kelvin Way, waving flags provided by sponsor Stewart Milne Homes, to take in the festival atmosphere as drivers donned fancy dress and decorated their vehicles before being entertained by the Police Scotland pipe band and the annual balloon release.

Tom Boyd, an Ambassador of the Celtic FC Foundation, who contributed £7000 towards the Fund, Inspector Duncan Evans, and Baillie Josephine Docherty from the Lord Provost’s office, lent their judging skills to help crown the coveted best-dressed taxi sponsored by Slug & Lettuce.

Jim Buchanan, Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund chair, said: “The annual Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund trip to Troon has yet again proved to be an overwhelming success.

"The event is still going strong after 73 years and has become a highlight on the Glasgow events calendar.

"A huge thank you must go to the drivers who generously donate their time and go above and beyond to give the kids a memorable day out. So many people, including our committee, as well as parents, teachers and carers, are all responsible for making this special event what it is today.”

Following their send-off in Glasgow’s west end, the fleet of taxis made their way through the streets of Glasgow to the city centre, through the south side and on to Ayrshire where they were welcomed by even more enthusiastic supporters.

Speaking on behalf of the Glasgow Taxis Ltd executive committee, chairman Stephen Flynn said: “It’s a huge honour to be so closely associated with this event. It’s a fantastic day, and our drivers really get in to the spirit of things and help to make it extra special for the kids.”

Sandra Brown, sales consultant for Stewart Milne Homes, added: “Taxis to Troon is a highly anticipated event in the annual calendar and we’re absolutely thrilled to be able to support such a fantastic occasion. Once again, the drivers and everyone involved have put on a wonderful day ensuring the children, and indeed all the well-wishers, have had an unforgettable day at the seaside.”