Taxi driver wins award for Christmas toy appeal

A Wirral taxi driver who has spent over a decade helping disadvantaged children at Christmas has won a hero award.

Alan Gilfoyle has organised an annual toy appeal and collected thousands of Christmas presents for children for the past 13 years.

Gilfoyle, who beat more than 1,700 other nominees to be named the North West winner of the Acorn Taxi Hero Award, said he was "absolutely delighted".

"I never started collecting toys or fundraising for recognition," he said.

"I just wanted to do something to help people in my community, particularly children who might otherwise miss out at Christmas."

His efforts have now grown into a major community effort which sees businesses and local residents donating gifts each year.

Gilfoyle was nominated for the award by passengers and members of the local community, who praised his kindness, generosity and willingness to help others.

His dedication to passengers, particularly those needing additional assistance, has also been recognised.

"To know that so many people have taken the time to nominate me means a great deal," he said.

The Acorn Insurance awards "celebrate the unsung heroes of Britain's taxi industry" and recognise drivers "who demonstrate exceptional acts of bravery, kindness and dedication for their passengers and communities".

Ash Coakley, Head of Taxi Insurance at Acorn Group, said taxi drivers "are often at the heart of their communities" and Gilfoyle was "a brilliant example of the difference they can make beyond their day-to-day work".

"The number and warmth of the nominations Alan received speak volumes about how much he means to people across the Wirral," he said.

Gilfoyle will now be entered into the national award which will be announced on 11 November.

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