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The voice of the taxi trade’s only independent organisation Issue 185 DECEMBER/JANUAR 2010-11 INSIDE

Christmas message John Mason

PAGE 3 NEWS

Simon Hughes visits LCDC offices PAGE 5 NEWS

Airport matters

PAGE 6 NEWS

Love boxing? Love Buncey PAGE 15 2 Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 Editorial Grant Davis - Chairman

I would like to start by wishing all Published by members of the LCDC and their The London Cab Driver’s Club Ltd. families a very Happy Christmas, Unit A 303.2, and a prosperous New Year. Tower Bridge Business Complex Tower Point, 100 Clements Road Southwark, London SE16 4DG Christmas Present From Boris? Telephone: 020 7232 0676 As you can see from our front E-mail for membership enquiries: page, will Boris deliver the Christmas E-mail: [email protected] present that we all in the taxi trade Web: lcdcorg.wordpress.com have been hoping for? Let us hope that the combined effort of the United Trade Group has paid Editor: Grant Davis trade. dividends and we will be given the Editorial Error This has proven to be very minimum of 15 years. We at the The Badge is distributed free to the Licenced successful over the last two years London Cab Trade. LCDC realise that the Mayor has and more than ever I feel that the After writing the above, it pains me been under extreme pressure to to report that in last month’s Unite For advertising enquiries please contact the only chance we have in the trade for enforce a 10 year age limit on our office on survival, is that this continues. The newspaper Cab Trade News, the 020 7394 5553 or E-mail: [email protected] vehicles, however, we are optimistic latest example of this took place at editor Mr. Peter Rose published a that the strong case put forward by letter purporting to be of a conver- All advertising in The Badge is accepted under Heathrow Airport with the newly the U.T.G will win the day. our terms and condidtions. These are available formed H.U.T.G. sation between myself and a former at the LCDC office. (Heathrow Airport United Trade member. What was contained in the letter was a complete fabrication of Before entering into any commitment, financial Group) consisting of the LCDC, or otherwise, always remember to seek Trade Unity Breaks LTDA, UNITE, and HATDU. what was actually said, and what professional advice. This has been formed to combat disappoints me most was that Mr. Out At Heathrow. Rose did not contact me prior to The views expressed in this publication are not the uncertainty created at the flyers necessarity those fo the Editor or of the by the Introduction of the voucher printing the letter to confirm if the Management Committee of the Since becoming Chairman, my system being implemented by HALT / conversation did in fact take place, London Cab Driver’s Club. main aim was to achieve trade unity, HALTS. The idea is for the HUTG and my so called “quotes” where Contributions for publication are welcomed hence the formation of the U.T.G. to form a much closer working rela- factual. and should be sent to the Editor at the which consisted of ourselves, the tionship with B.A.A and to make sure This I believe was no more than a above address. LTDA and Unite all working together that the views of the working cab cheap shot at the Club, and shame on you Peter, you should have The London Cab Driver’s Club Ltd. for the good of the licensed cab driver at Heathrow is given a voice. known better. Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 3 Mr Mason’s Christmas Message

er in partnership rather than a “them” and “us” environment of aggression, criticism Dear LCDC and hostility. Thanks to Grant and the Badge for 2010 has seen many other activities again providing me with the opportuni- such as the closure of Penton Street and ty to write a short article in this last the relocation of our services to Palestra. edition before Christmas. The teams have worked hard to introduce As the year draws to a close I know that an advisory note system for minor faults many of your reading this might still have and our on street compliance team has concerns as to the current state of the taxi been expanded to include a dedicated trade and what the future has in store. night team to further improve our licensing I can assure you all that we have, inspections during the night and early throughout the year, worked exceptionally mornings, especially at weekends. hard on a great many number of issues I think I could take up the whole edition and initiatives, many of which have been of the badge on summarising everything raised by Grant and the LCDC. Issues tions from both the taxi and the private Badge has reported details of the pro- else we are working on such as the such as touting have, of course, been hire trade many of which are included in posed strategy in previous editions. It “Green” and “Yellow” badge identifiers, the high on our list of priorities through 2010 our private hire consultation which I know might well be that by the time you read re let of our vehicle licensing service, the and will continue to be throughout 2011. the LCDC will be responding to. Like it or this the announcement on these propos- long term strategy to implement much We will continue to do all we can with our not it is simply not possible just to intro- als will have been made and if it has, and needed system improvements and colleagues in the Met and in discussions duce additional requirements for drivers or it’s a decision that you do not like then I enhancements in driver licensing and with the LCDC, LTDA and Unite to target scrap satellite offices and by law there am very sorry. If this is the case all I can many, many more but I will leave it at that key locations and take the strongest pos- needs to be a very clear, considered set do is assure you that it has taken a long for now and we will happily provide sible action against those found touting. of proposals that all interested parties, time to reach a decision because it is updates as and when they become rele- The one strike and out policy is working including those in the trade and other such a very important issue. Through the vant. well with many revocations and prosecu- stakeholders can consider. However, many meetings we have had with the taxi Throughout 2011 we will continue to tions but there is always more that can be where we can take immediate action we associations they have consistently made work as hard as we possibly can for you, done and I accept we still have a long will. For example, the decision we took in it very clear they object to age limits but the licensee, and will do everything possi- way to go. For example, we are still not July to put a stop on further private hire that if such a limit was to be introduced ble to build on the progress we have great at publicising the results of our activ- operator licenses being issued in 3rd then this should be no more stringent made in 2010 to address those issues ities which leads many to incorrectly claim party venues until we had completed this than 15 years. If the final decision is to that you have raised with us. “nothing is being done”. I hope to see review. introduce a 15 year age limit then I Finally, on behalf of everyone at some real improvements in this area One of the other big issues that is near- believe that this will further reinforce the Transport for London I would like to wish soon. ing a conclusion is the Mayor’s Air Quality importance of good, open, honest and you all a very Merry Christmas and a Throughout the year we have listened strategy and, in particular, proposed age productive relationships between TfL and happy and prosperous New Year. and collected many ideas and sugges- limits for taxis. We are aware that the the taxi trade that sees us working togeth- John Mason -Director LTPH 4 Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 5 Simon Hughes visits LCDC offices

On Friday the 3rd of the nuisance that they have December, the LCDC was become. grateful for the visit of our Another issue we discussed was local Lib Dem MP Simon the 10 year Taxi age limit that Hughes of Boris may yet decide to bring in. We at the Club feel this will deci- (Southwark&Bermondsey). mate our trade and will if Boris Simon who is Deputy to Nick goes for 10 years, effect all those Clegg has been MP since 1983 in who also work within our Industry, this area, and for those of you who such as the garages, knowledge don’t know Simon he is easily schools, etc. recognisable by his bright yellow Another item we brought to the TX11 which he uses to drive attention of Simon was the rise in around town. Sexual Assaults by Mini Cabs, as As you would have read in the you all know this has increased Badge, the club are against the year on year by some 54%. Mr voluntary licensing of Rickshaws, Hughes was unaware that it had by Westminster City Council. We risen so much, and was also con- Darryl Cox, Simon Hughes and Danny Sullivan discussed the forthcoming bill cerned about the explosion of which will up in Parliament within “satellite Offices” within the the New Year, with Simon and also ual assaults. Once again, we at to the important issues that the Capital, and the role we believe highlighted the dangers these the Club would like to thank Mr Trade are facing at this moment in that have played in the rise of sex- death traps are to the public, and Hughes for his time and attention time. Walker on the march.... - ground crime is…DOWN. cars? Can it be truly said that a com- there is a bit of a bottle-neck lead- Sexual offences in minicabs pany can order an unlimited number ing into J3, then the road clears is……….er, shall we move on! It of cars without a specific passenger and bottle-necks again at the ele- seems that crime in all areas of name or destination and still be vated section. London and its transport system is counted as pre-booked? We need to It seems to me that all the bus lane down with one exception – sexual know and quickly so. serves to do is to make the journey assaults in minicabs is on the If it’s wrong, then it needs to stop in quicker for the bus lance users Micky Walker increase by almost 50%. When two and T&PH need to stamp it out. If it’s and has very little effect on the rest LCDC Member factors fall or increase together we legal, then we may as well pack up of the traffic and what effect there is, have what statistician’s call a positive and buy ourselves decent MPVs. If is possibly positive. BARCLAY’S CYCLE correlation. it’s legal, how long before hotel func- I cannot help but wonder why the SUPERHIGHWAYS How long is it going to take the tions get sold to the highest bidder? decision has been taken? Addison powers that be to realise that there is How long before hotels, clubs, Lee has certainly presented a prob- Work is well on the way in the a connection between the increase supermarkets, shopping centres start lem. Since their CEO sent a letter to construction of cycle superhigh- in satellite offices and an increase in doing the same. AL drivers telling them they could way routes 2 and 8. By the time sexual offences in minicabs, albeit Can’t you just see it? Hello, scab use the M4 bus lane, a hornet’s nest The Olympics come around I won- touting minicabs. Yes, we all know cars? Hotel Stitch-up here. We are has been stirred up. We have had der if there will be any room left now that there is no such thing as a having a bash on Saturday night and TFL, the police and highways servic- on the roads for ordinary traffic. satellite office because they are we have people that will be looking es all batting this off as the other’s Bozzer is still planning to expand called “multiple centres”, However, for around 200 cars. How much will problem and nobody quite knowing the cycle hire scheme. It’s a funny they can call satellite offices pink ele- you give us to use your firm? What? whose responsibility it was to old world. All these weekend envi- phants if they so wish but it will not Yes, of course you can stick our enforce the bus lane rules. What with ronmentalists cycling like mad to alter the fact that as satellite offices bunce on the fares? Fine, you deliver 200 appeals going through court by save the world. I wonder if any of have grown so sexual offences have the brown paper bag on Friday and PH drivers, it may be that the gov- them have considered the irony of increased. I wonder if the Suzy send 200 cabs on Saturday. What? ernment thought the easiest solution advertising one of the world’s biggest Lamplugh Trust is happy with the No, don’t worry about T&PH as was to get rid of the bus lane. financiers of the global arms industry way things are going since they these are all pre-booked jobs. I would guess that AL thought on the front of the bikes they are endorsed private hire licensing? TFL and T&PH need to make up their £100,000 donation to the Tory pushing. Green guns possibly? It looks like it’s going to get worse their minds whether they want a Party would not do their cause any as well. Earlier in the year we had proper, structured taxi and private harm either. While I’m sure AL’s the fiasco of having the Grosvenor hire service or a circus. aim was to get usage of the bus LONDON House Park Lane rank suspended lane for their vehicles, I guess they CRIME FIGURES so that Addison Lee cars could use M4 BUS LANE won’t be too displeased at the con- the rank to serve a function. solation of taxi passengers’ journey Currently, we are unable to serve the from Heathrow being delayed for It’s been a good year for crime What a load of tosh we are hear- Bullring at the Royal Hospital for the no good reason. reduction. Met Police figures for ing about the M4 bus lane. Before pre-Christmas bashes because the And by the way, is a person that overall crime is…………DOWN. the bus lane was introduced, the area is stuffed with cars. incites his drivers to use the M4 Bus crime is………..DOWN. bottle-neck at the elevated section The T&PH need to look at this situ- bus lane when he knows this is London underground crime stretched back to J3 on most ation and quickly. Does what is going illegal, be suitable to hold a PH is……..DOWN. London over- mornings. Since it’s introduction, on represent the pre-booking of operator’s licence? 6 Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 Airport Matters BY PETER “THE CANNON” L.C.D.C AIRPORT REP

TRANSPORT FOR London (TfL) is BAA Heathrow to be kept to a minimum ing unpaid taxi marshals patrolling the ter- contract. This is a good example of what currently consulting the trade on taxi and to be properly minuted. BAA has no minals. happens when organisations like HALTS fares and has asked for views on pro- legal right whatsoever to take part in offi- are determined find quasi-legal ways of posals to permit fixed fares from cial decision making on London taxi TAXI DESKS AND VOUCHERS stopping information about their private Heathrow Airport. Where the propos- fares. BAA’s only duty to the London taxi Heathrow drivers are being kept in the business interests from reaching all the als are coming from is anybody’s trade is defined by the Airports Act 1986 dark about what kind of information is drivers. Trade reps for the LCDC, guess, but TfL has gone so far as to as a duty to provide the Heathrow Taxi being given to passengers who make HATDU, LTDA and Unite have held the say there are requests for some of the System. enquiries at HALTS’s taxi desks. It goes first of a series of private meetings to dis- fares to be fixed at above metered BAA Saves £4 million on Policing Costs without saying that the job of people cuss and analyse many issues affecting rates. TfL states that companies In 2009 BAA Heathrow projected that working on the desks is to promote the all Cabtag holders. At the top of the applying to set up fixed fares £35 million would have to be spent on use of London taxis and especially the agenda for discussion are unresolved schemes at Heathrow will have to policing Heathrow airport, but according taxis that are always readily available on issues centring on the lack of control over meet specified standards and show to a financial report published earlier this Heathrow ranks. It’s also the job of the how the £0.78 HALT(S) levy is being that they can handle fixed fare admin’ year BAA’s costs were £4 million lower desks to make it clear to would-be pas- used. The reps have mutually agreed to systems. than forecasted. This huge saving was sengers, that drivers on the ranks are challenge the arrogant refusal of HALTS They will also have to prove that they achieved due to the implementation of a ready to accept either credit cards or directors to discuss their private use of have a sufficient number of drivers under new agreement between the police and cash. It’s not the job of the desks to the levy to prop up their business their control to cover their schemes. In BAA. Now that this £4 million saving on coerce passengers into using services schemes. A keyword at these new style theory Heathrow is used by 7000 cab police costs has come to light, isn’t it that are earners for HALTS. Under the trade meetings is going to be ‘transparen- drivers, but in reality there is a nucleus of about time the trade had a rethink about rules of the Taxi System, BAA forces driv- cy’ and Colin Evans & Co may have to only about 500 regulars who keep the providing BAA and Heathrow Police with ers to fund the taxi desks with £6,000 per learn the hard way that they are going to Taxi System ticking over. The drivers are forty unpaid taxi marshals to keep touts week and it’s scandalous that the desks have to be accountable to the trade at all independent sole traders, so how is of the passenger terminals ? Although can siphon off credit card transactions Heathrow. TfL going to cope with vetting companies Heathrow is open for business for fifty- and enquiries that rightfully belong to driv- that want fixed fare schemes if they all two weeks per year, it would only need a ers working on the ranks. More than a claim to have 500 Heathrow drivers at mere quarter of the £4 million BAA has few drivers have made it their business to THE TAXI SYSTEM their disposal ? Surprisingly, TfL doesn’t just saved to provide a fully funded and find out what passengers have actually AND NSL say it will only consider fixed fare propos- upgraded taxi marshalling scheme. £1 pre-paid at the desks for HALTS’s blue The interception of passengers as they als from companies that have unblem- million from BAA spread over fifty-two vouchers. For example, when a driver walk to the taxi ranks has now become ished financial records and are able to weeks, would provide almost £20,000 accepts a blue voucher for £75 from a accepted custom and practice at produce checkable references as to their per week in ‘wages’ for the taxi marshals passenger, how much has the passenger Heathrow. HALTS's taxi desks can inter- banking and credit status. This is proba- currently on the feeder-park books. actually paid to HALTS ? This is a per- cept passengers and so can NSL rank bly an oversight on TfL’s part, but just in Last February in answer to questions fectly legitimate question and it’s not an attendants. A passenger can certainly case financially unsound businesses from the LCDC, a senior BAA accountant answer for HALTS to say the price paid hire a taxi without having to deal with appear at the top of a TfL short list, it’s up conceded that BAA hadn’t ruled out the by passenger for a voucher should be of HALTS, but not without having to deal to the Heathrow trade organisations, to possibility of having paid marshals in the no concern to the driver. Drivers accept with a NSL. The relevance of who can get them struck off before they begin to terminals. So, what would be wrong with vouchers issued by HALTS on the strict and can’t intercept passengers before put ideas into TfL’s head. Last summer rekindling BAA’s interest and asking BAA understanding that they receive the full they get to the ranks is very important. It TfL said it had no plans in the pipeline to for £10,000 per week ? The annual fare paid by the passenger, over and should lead us all to ask whether BAA allow fixed fares at Heathrow and we wages bill of £500,000, would represent above the credit card commission. If could replace HALTS’s services with a have to try and work out who and what is just one eighth of the £4 million that BAA HALTS or any other party is retaining company like NSL and thereby kill two behind TfL’s sudden change of direction didn’t have to pay to Heathrow police. anything part of a taxi fare to which they birds with one stone. In its consultation BAA charges London taxi drivers for are not entitled, then this will justify the document on fares, TfL stresses that every penny spent on providing the Taxi LEGAL THRESHOLDS setting up of a full blown inquiry into how fixed fare operations would have to be in System and by way of reciprocation we Proposals to fix fares above metered fixed-fare voucher schemes operate. the hands of big companies. Well, NSL is should be asking BAA to pay the mar- rates means that legal thresholds are a big international company and by com- shals. But whatever happens, rules are going to be crossed and TfL is not the parison Colin Evans & Co are a very tiny rules and when taxi marshals work as only public authority that’s going to have THE BAA-HALTS CONTRACT outfit with only feeble resources at their taxi drivers, there’s no reason why they a definitive say in the matter. TfL is going The Civil Aviation Authority, has con- disposal. In theory, HALTS’s contract with shouldn’t have to queue in the feeder to have to consult, the Office of Fair firmed in correspondence with the LCDC BAA will last for five years, but that’s on parks just like all other drivers who pay Trading, the Competition Commission, that BAA’s contract with HALTS is subject the assumption that HALTS directors can £6.30 to use the Taxi System. When they and the Civil Aviation Authority and of to a non-disclosure clause. This clause find the resources to deliver everything work as marshals, they should be hourly course all the taxi trade organisations. means that BAA and HALTS directors that BAA probably wants delivered, for paid and there is no doubt that a big Another important to remember is that have mutually agreed that they will not example a nice fat commission on all chunk of BAA’s £4 million saving on the taxi trade taxi trade is entitled to disclose the terms and conditions of their fixed fare transactions. expect discussions between TfL and police costs was due entirely to BAA hav- Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 7 8 Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 View of a ‘butter boy’

Ricky Waller drive and so on. Throw a Christmas after all a time of especially hard and requires LCDC youngest mobile/Blackberry into the joy and us all too thinking of others. member equation too and the chance happiness. Whatever our relationship of with the customers goes Some of you will find with the this season you have Christmas out the window completely. Christmas a total waste of to admit Christmas does At Christmas we provide a time. You may be bored of all something quite miraculous time mistletoe service that is slightly more the fuss and shopping, disil- to most of us. We may go to and wine….. appreciated than at other lusioned with the abandon- bed the night before hating times of the year. Our cus- ment of traditional values in the crowds and tired from the tomer demographic changes favour of commercial enter- rush of dozens of last-minute CHRISTMAS IS finally upon and we encounter members prise. chores, and fed up with the and we in the taxi trade of the public who may not Christmas is the Christian whole business. But then we welcome steadily increas- have used a cab since this celebration of the birth of awake on the day itself to ing work levels. The festive time last year. Perhaps they Jesus Christ- just in case it find ourselves totally trans- period offers a welcome are visiting relatives or are slipped our minds! formed. We do not remember break from quieter times simply Christmas tourists. We all feel that the festival the hard labour that got us and also offers a change Whatever the reason they all has sold out to capitalism at here but are totally prepared from the monotonous day offer something different from its worst. Perhaps the more to enjoy the day and all its to day jobs we undertake what we normally encounter. cynical among us feel it trappings. and the clientele we carry. A big shopping trip from fur- encourages greed of every So what ever your belief Taking workers to the city or ther a field than usual or a kind with food, drink and background or circumstances west end in the rush hour journey to see family mem- presents. please try and enjoy this and then home again. The bers. I have found that these It can also be a sad period festive period. It is gone in a typical routes we take can be are usually the best fairs for for many individuals missing flash but all the good deeds repetitive and often require conversation and tips. No lost family members with a will be remembered. little thought. Heading to the matter how big or small the lack of immediate family to Drivers be safe in your city from south west? job is we should remember to ease the loneliness. Also job keep your wits about Embankment! Mayfair from smile be polite and just do being separated at this time you and enjoy MERRY south west south carriage what we do best its of year from loved ones is CHRISTMAS ALL Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 9 10 Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11

No woman is safe in a minicab, says rape judge A judge issued an alarming warn- rying state of affairs." He was convicted last December The judge told Assadullah: "With a mix- ing to minicab passengers yester- The case has highlighted a growing of raping the 28-year-old secretary and ture of arrogance and cynical oppor- day that they cannot expect to problem in our cities, where a burgeoning was sentenced at the Old Bailey yester- tunism you abused your position of trust. travel in safety. nightclub culture and lack of public trans- day. "She was placed in your cab by a friend Jailing an asylum seeker for eight years port has led to a boom in the use of mini- In a reference to the rapist's back- who paid you to get her home safely. for raping a secretary, Recorder Michael cabs. ground, the judge told him: "You were "She was put through a terrifying ordeal Sayers, QC, said those hiring a private These are separate from licensed black certainly aware of the gravity of the crime and she faced the added trauma of not taxi simply had no way of knowing the cabs and are supposed to be booked in of rape as it would be met by a sentence knowing whether you might be a murder- driver's background. advance over the telephone or in person of death by stoning." er as well as a rapist." He called for compulsory licensing of all at a central office. The woman got into the cab after a Assadullah, a father of three, was grant- cab drivers after police checks on the firm There are around 100,000 private hire night out in a wine bar in Stratford last ed leave to remain last year after claiming where the rapist worked revealed that not drivers in the UK. Powers to license them July. he had been tortured by the Taliban. The one driver was being legally employed. have been on the statute book since After dropping off her best friend, judge recommended his deportation. "It appears that nobody can travel in 1998 but the law's enforcement depends Assadullah parked the car and turned off Richard Massett, of the London Taxi minicabs with any degree of assurance or heavily on the policy of the local authority. the engine before attacking the woman in Drivers' Association, said: "It's been five safety, as demonstrated by the facts in In London, men and women desperate the back seat. He stopped only when dis- years since regulation was approved in this case," said the judge. to get home have resorted to hailing unli- turbed by two cyclists. Parliament and nothing has happened. "At the moment, when a member of the censed "taxi touts" who ply for trade by The Old Bailey heard that Assadullah, "We advise women travelling home public takes a cab he has no assurance driving through the city's entertainment from Plaistow, East London, set himself alone late at night to use a licensed black that the driver is who he claims to be or areas. up as a cab driver by buying a false driv- cab if possible or, if not, to book a mini- has got any insurance or driving licence. Police figures show that 214 women ing licence for £200 and using a false cab by phone and ensure that it comes He has no way of knowing how the driver were sexually assaulted in the capital last name. Police checks revealed he was from the place where they booked it." conducts his business. year after getting into illegal minicabs and driving without insurance. Detective Constable Malcolm Samuels, "This is something that should be inves- 54 raped. Further inquiries into the rapist's firm of the Metropolitan Police, said that tigated. If minicab drivers are driving Razaq Assadullah, 31, who worked for revealed that each of its 32 drivers was because many minicab drivers work on around with false identities, it is some- Speedline Cars in Stratford, East London, working illegally in some way - either a self-employed basis there is little thing that should be looked into and was an asylum seeker who came to through their immigration status or by incentive for the firm's owner to check investigated properly. I find it quite a wor- Britain from Afghanistan in 2000. claiming benefit while working. on them. Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 11 12 Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 Eddie Nestor 2010 - The year that was

Harrison continued to disappoint. bother to try in the 2010 tournament. whilst getting a taste of government. Chelsea wins the first double in their And whilst we are on football. Can any- But at what cost? Oh how I wish I had a history but the holy grail of the one tell me how in 2022 we are going to crystal ball. Will voters remember come Eddie Nestor Champions league still evades them. watch footie in a country where alcohol election time? Audley continues to disappoint. Fulham is illegal and you’re not allowed to take Those pesky cuts are causing me perform above all expectations and are off your clothes even though it is 48 sleepless nights too and I did say cuts. Drivetime 5-7pm Mon-Fri cruelly rewarded with losing their manag- degrees? Hey and were going to keep They are like my wife says sex is with Edgy Eddie Extra: er and having him replaced by Mark the ashes too. London born finally wins me. We know they’re about to bite but Sundays from 10pm Hughes. Audley is still disappointing. the World Championship of talking and can’t really feel it...yet BBC London 94.9 West Ham pick a manager who easily will continue to box to exercise his jaw. You cabbies have continued to call the managed to keep his side (Portsmouth) It has been a bad year for number two. show and keep me on my toes and I Baby is asleep and so I find at the bottom of the premiership all sea- Ray Wilkins got the boot from Chelsea truly appreciate that. myself typing quietly and even son and now, you guessed it, is easily and Chris Houghton (a man perceived Oh no baby is crying and I was just more slowly than normal. The managing to keep them there too. as a number two gets the chop from the about to tell you what happened when I end of the year is nigh and I am Arsenal managed t cement their position toon. My prediction both teams will come got caught in a lift with a drunken Jordan as the third best team in the country; but to rue their stupidity. too. Oh well that will have to be next thinking of the year that was. So are this year really trying to win the Talking of number 2’s Deputy Prime year. Good luck and I hope 2011is a much has happened this Kiddies cup. Good luck. Minister Nick Clegg has come in for prosperous one for you. One good thing year...where to start. We only managed to secure one vote some stick too over tuition fees. Who is with the Royal wedding we are In sport Tottenham go from strength to other than our own for the 2018 World would have guessed it would have guaranteed extra days rest or is that strength finally challenging Arsenal for Cup. I think the players knew the out- ended up like this. The Liberal double fare? second best team in London. Audley come way in advance and so didn’t Democrats break their election promise Adios London’s only independent taxi trade organisation

Don’t delay... join today! 020 7394 5553 Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 13 The Marksman

IMPERIAL COMMANDER. Having are 12/1. won the Betfair Gold Cup at Jonjo O’Neil trains Haydock on 20th SYNCHRONISED who, although Is December/January, he suffered a quite high in the weights, he did cut leg and at this stage, it is only carry a big weight when winning the 50/50 that he will make the race. Midlands National last season. He Others worthy of a mention are: loves soft ground and likes this track. NACART – he finished fourth to He must go well (current odds 12/1). Imperial Commander at Haydock Pat Muprhy trains MAKTU. A but runs Kempton Park much better consistent sort who loves heavy and on his day is a very good ground, he was a wide margin win- horse. ner at Haydock last season and SIZING EUROPE may come over merits consideration (current odds from Ireland. He was beaten 4 25/1). lengths by Kauto Star at Down However, the one I like is the Royal on 6th December/January Jamie Poulton trained BALLYFOY. investment of £80 will win you £110 and would need to improve. He is This horse is at the right end of the (plus your stake returned) tax free however an Arkle winner at last handicap and has been laid out for ÂTà à{|á à|Åx Éy çxtÜ? for approximately 5½ minutes work year’s Cheltenham Festival so is a the race. His trainer was quoted as – you won’t get that kind of return in very classy performer. saying he “couldn’t have been tÄÄ ã|áx ÅxÇ ã|ÄÄ yÉÄÄÉã a bank or building society! The day after Boxing Day (27th happier” with his reappearance at Like any top race, there will be December), we switch to Chepstow Ascot over hurdles. This should put à{x áàtÜÊ strong opposition. In my opinion, his for the Coral Welsh National. Run him spot on, and he is going to be most serious opponent will be over 3m 5½f usually on heavy our selection for the race. We LONG RUN. This horse, trained by ground, this is a real test of stamina. recommend 2pts each way (current YES, AT this time of year, all wise Nicky Henderson, ran a very gallant In the last 10 years, one horse has odds 40/1). men will be following KAUTO race in the Paddy Power gold cup carried 11 stone or more to victory, To sum up, KAUTO STAR is a STAR to Kempton Park on at Cheltenham over 2m 4½f on 13th so I believe the answer is to find a confident 5 star bet to help with the Boxing Day to see if this fantastic December/January with a fine third horse in the bottom half of the handi- Christmas expenses. horse can win a record fifth behind Little Josh (only beaten by 5 cap. Champion trainer Paul Nicholls This just leaves me to say: a William Hill King George chase. lengths) carrying a big weight. The has two runners – TRICKY TRICK- Merry Christmas and a happy and As we go to print he is a best price trip of 3 miles at Kempton will suit STER (who was one of our five to prosperous New Year to all our at 11/8 with both Hills and Corals him better and a big run is expected. follow in last month’s issue) and readers. and whilst you’re not going to get Another worthy opponent is the WATAMU BAY. Of the two, I prefer P.S. Don’t give too much to those rich backing him, consider this: an Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Watamu Bay, whose current odds awful bookie chappies! Be lucky!

Adam D. Elliott Vincent House, 99a Station Road, London, E4 7BU SPECIALIST ACCOUNTANT TO THE LICENSED TAXI TRADE

Tel: 020 8281 0500 email: [email protected] / SKYPE: taxitax 14 Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 Around the grounds with Billy Nickson

During the month of appointing month for spot in the Championship, moving 4 4-0 victory over Manchester December/January, the Premier Chelsea securing points clear of 2nd placed Cardiff. A cru- United. League continued in its up and only one victory in cial 2-1 over the Bluebirds saw this gap down, yo-yo fashion with the the league, this develop thanks to a winner from influen- unpredictability of the English being against tial skipper Adel Tarrabt. A postpone- leagues in general increasing and Fulham. Injuries to ment in their fixture away to Hull due to the range of teams aspiring for the key men has contin- the bad weather also leaves Rangers biggest prizes widening through- ued to form gaps in Ancelotti’s with a game in hand. out. The question remains squad and off the field, the depar- whether this level of inconsistency ture of assistant Ray Wilkins along is down to an overall increase in with these reoccurring losses and intent and quality or on the other draws has created speculation CRYSTAL hand a lower level of quality in the spreading about the managers rela- PALACE bigger sides? In some critics tionship and job overall. Palace remain in the views, this particular question was relegation positions following answered when England lossed another inconsistent month. The out in the bid to host to 2018 MILLWALL inconsistent attitude was proven World Cup, supporting the opinion with 3 wins and ultimately 3 Kenny Jackett’s men advanced up that this decrease in class has defeats after their recent loss to the mid table of the been recognised around the world away to Leeds United. Although, Championship after a comprehen- and the biggest names in football the Eagles were on course for a sive 3-0 win over Scunthorpe. do not see The Premier league as much needed victory from this Furthermore The Lions completed the best football in the world any- match until Luciano Becchio another important 1-0 win against more. TOTTENHAM bagged a double in the final 10 Middlesbrough. However, losses minutes to secure a 2-1 comeback HOTSPUR to Doncaster and Sheffield United for Leeds United. A promising month but a dampener on what seemed for Spurs has seen a positive December/January. them progress into the knockout stages of the Champions League and also successive victories in the ARSENAL league, sees numerous accusa- The Gunners see themselves tions about Tottenham mounting a placed at the table, moving into serious title challenge this season the festive period. Even though even from manager Harry CHARLTON they suffered a defeat at home Redknapp. Vital wins over the A successful month to arch rivals Tottenham in a likes of Arsenal and Liverpool cur- with no losses from five goal thriller and also losing rently place Spurs only 6 points off a possible 8 games in BRENTFORD 1-0 against Newcastle, Arsene the top. December/January has seen the Brentford continue to linger in the Wenger’s men have maintained Addicks tighten the gap between mid table locations of League 1. a run of wins to move into 1st them and top team Brighton to Successive victories over position and also during the just 4 points, through to the semi Plymouth and Colchester have month progressed into the semi finals of the Johnstone Paint created promise amongst, along finals of the Carling Cup thanks Trophy, and also awaiting a 3rd with the Johnstone Paint Trophy to a 2-0 victory over Wigan. . round tie with Premier League win on Penalties against Swindon side and fellow Londoners sets up a semi final tie with Tottenham if they can overcome a Charlton Athletic. FULHAM 2nd replay with Luton after a 2-2 draw in the opening game. After failing to win from any of their matches in December/January, Mark Hughes’ side find themselves just outside of the bottom three however joint on points with lower placed team Wigan. On the brighter in their recent fixture with Arsenal they were holding the league lead- ers to a 1-1 draw until Samir Nasri WEST HAM scored a reasonably late winner. LEYTON ORI- The Hammers ENT remain bottom of the Russell Slade’s men are still bat- Premier League. Nevertheless in tling around the bottom of the December/January they were only League 1 table, despite vital defeated by Liverpool, drawing draws and even a 3-0 win over three and winning once against Bristol Rovers. Orient were Wigan. Although moving into the involved in an end to end dramatic month of December lost to contest with Peterborough when Sunderland 1-0. The pinnacle of Jimmy Smith looked to have QPR the month came in the Carling equalised late on to level the An undefeated December/January from Cup where West Ham moved into CHELSEA scores at 2-2, then Peterborough Neil Warnock’s side maintains their top the semi finals after a momentous December/January has been a dis- were awarded an even later Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 15 Love boxing? Love Buncey It has been a very busy time for me, former Olympic Champion, but he has December. and I have been jumping in and out of since come out and spoke of his return The great news this month, was that taxis throughout the past weeks, and I to the ring. I must say that will the pub- Amir`s coach, Freddie Roach will shun must say a big thank you for all you lic have the appetite for another bland retirement to carry on working with drivers who have chatted to me during and some say gutless performance. Amir. our journeys. Carl " the Cobra" Froch reclaimed the Since Freddie joined the Khan camp, Well, what a month, big David Haye WBC Supermiddleweight Title by put- the results have been fantastic, and produced a ferocious display against ting on a masterclass display against the relationship between these two the feeble Audley Harrison in front of the strong, and rugged German, Arthur guys seems to just get better and bet- 20,000 fans in Manchester ( why not Abrahams. His snake like jab kept the ter. A resounding victory for the young London? ) german at bay for the fight, and must Khan must surely push him up to pole " I`m convinced I can crush anyone in go done as one of his most satisfying position to fight Floyd Mayweather Jnr the world" he told Sky Sports.when fights. I am at a loss to why Sky or ITV next year in a mega, mega pay per pressed on the fights that the public have not jumped on the Carl Froch view fight that would capture the now demand to see against the train as this boy has the lot, the worlds imagination. Klitschko brothers, David said " next moves, the hert, and the talent to be a So on this positive note for british year I promise that these fights are mega-star in 2011, whats the problem boxing, I would like to say a Happy MAY I first say a big " Happy going to happen". many at ringside you guys in T.V land? Xmas and Happy New Year to all you Christmas" to my old sparring felt that this feeble display by Harrison And finally, I am waiting with anticipa- fantastic cabbies. partner Grant and all LCDC should now bring down the curtain on, tion for the Amir Khan Marcos adios members and their family. a career that promised so much for the Maidana fight on Saturday 11th Buncey 16 Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 L.C.D.C MEMBERSHIP FORMS

Please complete this form and send it with your application form Application Form (LCDC) Ltd UNIT 303.2 TOWER BRIDGE BUSINESS COMPLEX, TOWER POINT, Please complete this form in BLOCK CAPITALS 100 CLEMENT’S ROAD, SOUTHWARK LONDON, SE16 4DG The subscription rate is £170 per annum. If you are unable to pay in a 0207 394 5553 single payment please make one cheque payable to “The London Cab Drivers Club Ltd,” with today’s date for £56.67 and two post-dated Standing Order Form cheques one month apart for £56.67. Send the completed form to: THE MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY, Your Bank: ...... The London Cab Drivers Club Ltd, UNIT A 303.2 Your Bank Address:...... Tower Bridge Business Complex, Tower Point, 100 Clements Road, Southwark, London SE16 4DG Post Code:......

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LEROY REID & CO Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors

Leroy Reid & Co is a firm of Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors established on 1st April 1982 providing Taxation, Audit and Bookkeeping and Accountancy Services to the Licensed London Taxi Drivers, small and medium size businesses and charities. We are committed to putting your interests first, hence our Mission Statement: "We work to a standard and not a price" COST OF SERVICE Our charges for the following services are £255.00 + VAT.

FEATURES OF THE SERVICE w Free consultation. w Preparation of Accounts. w Completion of Self Assessment Tax Return. w Submission of completed Tax Return. w Letters to Building Societies and Banks. w Confirmation letter regarding Loss of Earnings. We also have trained staff and associates specialising in all aspects of the tax system who will be able to efficiently and effectively deal with all tax issues and Inland Revenue investigations related to the Licensed London Taxi Driver.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require any further information. 299 Northborough Road, Norbury, London SW16 4TR Tel: 020 8764 6675 / 020 8679 4226 Email: [email protected]

OFFICE HOURS Club Office hours are between 10:00am and 5:30pm each day Monday through Friday.

You can call in to discuss Sickness and Accident Insurance and Membership Enquiries, or any complaints and/or summonses incurred whilst driving your taxi at work.

You may also telephone for an appointment to speak with an Officer of the Club on any of the above matters in the strictest of confidence.

Call 0207 394 5553 18 Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 Issue 184 - December/January 2010-11 19

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