An annual event for West Lothian children has been given a cash boost.
Eddie Millar, the taxi driver who started the West Lothian Special Needs Children’s Taxi Outing with his wife, Helen, accepted a cheque for £500 from Morrisons in Livingston at the football stadium on Monday (April 15), alongside fellow committee members Alex Lamont and Margaret Dickson.
Read more: Primary school pupils clean up to help local environment
Speaking to the Courier, Helen said: “When you have children with learning difficulties, it can be difficult to take them into certain environments because they can have meltdowns.
“This event is for them and their parents. They come out for a nice day, and if there is a meltdown, nobody bats an eye - there’s no judgement because everyone’s in a similar situation.”
The taxi outing - which will take place on May 6 - is now entering its third year, and it will see 40 primary-aged children with special needs enjoying a day out with their families.
Read more: West Lothian bands triumph at Scottish Concert Band Festival
It will begin at Livingston Football Stadium at 9am, where kids will be put into taxis with 25 drivers giving up their time to show the kids a great day, with prizes for the best fancy dress.
The taxis will take the children on a drive around the area, eventually ending up at Livingston Rugby Club for a barbecue, a buffet, and a range of activities.
There, families will be able to enjoy face painters, magicians, bouncy castles, a disco, and a ‘unicorn’ - amongst various other attractions.
Read more: Ten West Lothian pubs receive awards
Eddie said: “If anyone wants to support the special needs taxi outing, either by helping with fundraising, contributing new ideas, or volunteering on the day, they can get in touch with me by email at rhodeia18@gmail.com.”
The Millars had the idea for the taxi outing at 3am a few years ago, just as Eddie was about to go on his shift.
Having been involved with the Edinburgh Special Needs Children’s Taxi Outing, he said he thought it would be great if it could be recreated in West Lothian.
