RAB C NESBITT star Tony Roper was at Kelvin Way to wave off almost 800 youngsters on their way to the seaside.

Drivers give kids day to remember on 64th trip to seaside

By Lauren MayberryRAB C NESBITT star Tony Roper was at Kelvin Way to wave off almost 800 youngsters on their way to the seaside.

Glasgow Taxis Outing Fund for Sick Children lined the West End yesterday with cabs decorated extravagantly for the occasion with balloons, posters and streamers.

Tony paid tribute to the drivers who took 250 black hacks to the coastal town of Troon for the 64th annual event.

"They've got hearts the size of the world these guys to do what they do every year," said the comedy favourite.

Cabbies got dolled up as clowns, Casper the Ghost and Winnie the Pooh for a best dressed competition, with their famous taxi patter shining through.

Paul McGouldrick and Harry Ward, aka the Ugly Sisters, said, "It's all about just giving the kids a great day out!"

Troon residents were out in force to welcome their visitors, with cheerleaders on hand to lead the pipe band procession through the streets.

School children waved welcome' banners and pompoms as the convoy passed through the town.

To avoid activities going too swimmingly' due to the weather, organisers managed to move a majority of the celebrations from the beach into the town hall, leaving pony rides and a mini ski slope outside.

Indoors, there were dance competitions, balloon animals, face painting and a puppet show.

"It's fun, fun, fun," said five-year-old Rico Marinovic, from Glasgow.

The event was sponsored by the charitable arm of Celtic FC, which has donated £80,000 to the fund over the years.

Duncan Bannatyne, of TV's Dragons' Den, also enjoyed the fun throughout the day. He said: "It has been many years since I visited Troon but we've all had a great day."