A parade of more than 50 taxis decorated with balloons escorted 100 disadvantaged children to Maldon in Essex for a day of fun including face painting, horse rides and a magic show.

The children were collected from Eastlea School, Canning Town and Brampton Manor School, East Ham and treated to lunch, pocket money and goody bags.

Councillor Chaudhary said: "It really is a fantastic sight to see the taxis dressed up and driving along in a convoy. The children thoroughly enjoy the day and seeing their smiles is priceless."

The London Ambulance Service stayed with the convoy throughout the trip and 10 Metropolitan and Essex motorcycle police escorted the procession from beginning to end stopping traffic so the group could stay together.

The Mayor of Maldon, John Alderman, greeted the children and school pupils lined the streets to greet the procession.

Donations to the East London Cabbies Outing Charity can be made via: www.eastlondoncabbiesouting.co.uk.