Cabbies' gift of joy for 150 children

From the archive, first published Monday 23rd Apr 2007.

MORE than 150 children with disabilities and their families had a special party thanks to the Southend Taxi Drivers' Fund.

A children's entertainer got the youngsters singing and dancing and there was also an Easter bonnet competition during the event at St Thomas More High School in Westcliff.

Heather Houssart, 77, of Glenwood Avenue, Eastwood, organised the event with her husband Brian, 73.

Mr Houssart said the party had been taking place for nine straight years and was unique because it was held for disabled children as well as their brothers and sisters.

He said: "It was just a lovely, lovely day.

"All the parents come and drop their children off and then because it's on a Sunday they all stay and enjoy the afternoon.

"We had the mayor Ron Price and his wife and also the Southend Carnival court came along as well."

Mr Houssart said last year's carnival court thought it was such a good cause they came back along with the newly elected queen and princesses.

He said: "Everyone was so kind this year, the mayor stayed almost the whole afternoon and was singing and dancing with the children.

"The look on their faces as well as on their parents' is what makes it so rewarding.

"Mr Happy the entertainer was brilliant and the Easter bonnet parade was lovely.

"Some of the children are seriously ill and to have a day where they really enjoy themselves is wonderful."