Magic moment for young Caitlin thanks to driver Matt

A kind-hearted Glasgow taxi driver provided even more cheer this week for the school pupil he took on this year’s famous trip to Troon – dropping off chocolates and a trophy to the thrilled youngster. 

Matt McLetchie, from Bearsden, was the nominated taxi driver for Kelbourne Park School’s Caitlin McFadden when the 75th annual trip from Glasgow to Troon took place last Wednesday. 

It was Matt’s 40th year participating in the trip, and he was fully committed to the fun and games on the day, dressing up as Rod Stewart which earned him a trophy as second placed in the best dressed driver competition. 

Matt and Caitlin really connected on the day, so much so that earlier this week Matt made a surprise visit to Caitlin’s school to give the Kelbourne Park pupil the trophy to keep and some chocolates to enjoy as a treat and thank you. 

Caitlin’s mum, Pauline, said: “I got a message from Caitlin’s school to say he had handed his trophy and some chocolates in for Caitlin. I’m speechless! What a beautiful gesture. 

“Matt has no idea how his demeanour with Caitlin positively impacted on her experience. Caitlin isn’t good with new people, it takes a special person to capture Caitlin from the word go and Matt achieved that. When I posted some photos on my page, Caitlin’s old physio who worked with her for years commented. We all want Matt to know we are saying a massive thank you to him.” 

Matt responded, commenting: “It was great to see Caitlin having such a great time and it was a pleasure to present her with the trophy which gave her a big smile and made her happy.” 

The famous Glasgow Taxis trip to Troon sees more than 300 children with additional support needs enjoy a day at the seaside thanks to the generosity of 120+ drivers, plus many more volunteers. 

Stephen Lalley, treasurer of the Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund, added: “This is just another act of generosity from one of the many taxi drivers that took part in this year's 75th outing to Troon. 

“The children really look forward to going to Troon each year in the decorated taxis and I want to thank Matt for taking time to make this special gesture. To Matt and all the drivers, everyone at the Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund thanks them for their time, it means a lot to the children. As we say, the Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund trip to Troon really is: one day ... with a lifetime of memories.”