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Veteran Chris Willmott to cycle from Arnhem to Normandy for Taxi Charity

This summer, Chris Willmott, who served with the Parachute Regiment, will embark on an extraordinary 1,524 mile cycling challenge to raise funds for the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans.

The Taxi Charity For Military Veterans (formerly known as the London Taxi Benevolent Association For War Disabled) was formed in Fulham in 1948. Its object then was to help war veterans, in their homes and hospitals, throughout London and the home counties, by providing entertainment, outings and much needed specialised equipment. Our aim now is simple: to work for the benefit, comfort and enjoyment of military veterans, to the best of our ability. For our annual Worthing outing, we now collect veterans from all over London, including the Royal Hospital Chelsea and other Veterans' Homes, as well as those who still live in their own homes. This amounts to over 300 ex-service men and women and over 130 taxis. In order to fund these outings, we seek donations from the general public and organisations, and we rely on volunteer London licensed taxi drivers to provide their taxis and time for free.

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This ambitious journey will take place over 25 days, with Chris averaging an impressive 61 miles per day. His toughest stretch comes early in the challenge, when he will complete a demanding 97-mile ride on day four, cycling from Hanover to Magdeburg.

As a volunteer ambassador for the Taxi Charity, he regularly supports the charity’s work with veterans across the UK. The charity, which is run by volunteer London black taxi drivers, has been supporting thousands of veterans since 1948. It is the only Forces charity that focuses on providing fun and entertainment, and arranges free trips (for veterans from all conflicts) to the Netherlands and France for acts of commemoration and days out to museums, concerts and social events across the UK.

The cycle route holds deep historical significance. Chris will complete his journey in Normandy, where he will join the Taxi Charity for the annual D-Day commemorations, honouring those who served and sacrificed during the World War II.

Chris is no stranger to fundraising for the Taxi Charity, having completed huge challenges in 2022 and 2025. Speaking ahead of this challenge, Chris said the ride is both a physical test and a meaningful way to give back to causes close to his heart. Funds raised will directly support veterans through the Taxi Charity.

Donation summary

Total
£265.00
+ £66.25 Gift Aid
Online
£265.00
Offline
£0.00
Direct
£265.00
Fundraisers
£0.00

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