12 fun photos as Edinburgh Taxi Outing makes a splash with spectacular procession

The annual event, which has been organised by Edinburgh taxi drivers since 1947, provides children with special needs a magnificent day out to remember, touring the city in style before attending a fun filled party at Archerfield Walled Garden in East Lothian.

As tradition dictates, the children came armed with water pistols and water balloons, squirting onlookers as they were chauffeured through Auld Reekie.

This year’s event - the 78th instalment - was initially up-in-the-air after Police Scotland initially announced that it was withdrawing its motorcycle escorts.

Then, after local authorities and police reached a logistical solution to save the beloved event, there were further fears by organisers that a pending application for a licence could scupper plans.

Mercifully, it went ahead in the end, resulting in another unforgettable day.

Council leader Jane Meagher said: “I am absolutely delighted that the annual Edinburgh Taxi Outing has gone ahead as planned. Once again, our cabbies have raised the bar with their fantastic taxi decorations and my thanks to them, and all those who volunteer to make this such a special day for Edinburgh children.

“It was such a wonderful sight to see the parade of taxis making its way through our streets – they were clearly enjoying soaking all of the bystanders with water balloons and pistols. As ever, it was fun, hilarious, uplifting and wet! I am sure lasting memories have been made for everyone involved.”

The Lord Provost of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge, said: “The annual Taxi Outing Parade is one of my personal highlights of the year - even if I do get soaked. It is a real pleasure to take part in the parade and present rosettes to the best decorated taxi and best fancy-dress costume.

“I'm sure all those children and drivers taking part had a fantastic day, but it's also a brilliant sight for the many spectators who line the streets to cheer it on. The recent outpouring of support has shown just how much this wonderful event means to people, and I’m sure it will continue long into the future.”

Take a look through our photo gallery to see all the fun from the 78th annual Edinburgh Taxi Drivers Outing.