By John Baron
OLDER people in West Leeds are traveling in style in a brand new Electric London Cab – and meeting new friends at the same time.
The new six-seater luxury cab is providing better conncections for members of Bramley Elderly Action (BEA) and OWLS, to access local groups, activities and trips out, as well as helping isolated people to socialise.
The Happy Cab project is funded by the Department for Transport as part of a larger Happiness through Transport project.
The cab has all the mod cons, including air conditioning, panaramic roof, six comfy seats and easy access.
BEA transport coordinator Rebecca Durrant said: “This isn’t a cab you can just hail as we only have the one vehicle. We’re a charity so it is essentially a ‘social club’ on wheels to help people who might not be able to get out and about.
“It’s a bit of a luxury, and because people are facing each other in the back, they are more inclined to chat with each other and make new friends.
“We’re already seeing this happen. The first couple who used it said they felt like royalty and were doing the royal wave from the window.”
The taxi can be used for group trips to places like Otley, Murgatroyds fish restaurant, Tong Garden Centre and also other destinations members can choose themselves at affordable prices, but can only be booked for members of BEA and OWLS.
Staff also offer a door to door service for those less steady on their feet.
BEA covers Bramley, Swinnow and parts of Stanningley, while OWLS covers Headingley, Burley, Hyde Park, Little Woodhouse and parts of Kirkstall.
