There was a fantastic atmosphere in Troon last week as the Glasgow Taxi Outing returned for the first time in three years after previous cancellations because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The taxi outing has been running since 1945 and every year it sees generous drivers from Glasgow give up a days work to transport children with additional support needs down to Troon for a day at the beach.

More than 120 vehicles and around 300 children were part of the travelling convoy.

The drivers were dressed up in an array of fancy dress costumes, with the likes of Scooby Doo, Super Mario, Ironman, Captain Jack Sparrow, and others making an appearance.

The drivers arrived at the Kelvin Way in Glasgow around 10am where the ‘best dressed taxi’ was judged and from there they made their way through Glasgow’s west end, the city centre and the south side before heading down to the west coast. They arrived in Troon around 1pm and were greeted by throngs of people lining Portland Street and South Beach who waved at the drivers and their passengers as the elaborately decorated vehicles and drivers made their way down to the beach.

Local shops were adorned with balloons and bunting to welcome the event. Precious Kidswear, on the corner of Portland Street and South Beach was declared ‘best dressed shop.

Owner Rachel said: “It’s so great for the town. It’s so lovely to see everyone out and about and enjoying themselves. Especially after the last two years being cancelled.”