COMPANY NEWS

LARRY, PEARLY KING OF THE OLD KENT ROAD PASSES AWAY - THE LATE LIONEL JOHN GOLDING (16th April 1927 – 14th July 2011)

Article provided by Taxi Cab News

By Susan Angel on behalf of the Hon. President and Committee of The London Taxidrivers' Fund for Underprivileged Children

Larry was born in South London, the son of a licensed Taxi Driver and the nephew of Alfie Bass the Actor, his other uncles all being Taxi Drivers. His demob from the Navy was in 1946, which was when he decided to follow in the family footsteps and he enrolled in the British Legion Knowledge School in Kennington. He lived at that time in Loughton and did the Knowledge on a pushbike and his badge number was 3121, of which he was very proud. He became Secretary of the Night Drivers Union and was at the forefront of the battle with the minicabs during the 60's. His nickname was 'Shakespeare' because he used to write about the characters that frequented the taxi cafe in Aldgate Avenue. Along with his wife Doreen who he married in 1979 he was always a supporter of local and national charities and in 1995 the couple were asked to become Pearlie's Prides. They received their title of Pearly King & Queen of the Old Kent Road in 1997. His background, his youth and his years as a licensed London Taxi Driver made him a supporter of the London Taxidrivers' Fund for Underprivileged Children. He felt this particular charity to be so worthwhile, giving the charity a great deal of support, coming along over many years to help at the Southend Outings, the Lord Mayor's Shows and, of course, the Mad Hatter's Tea Parties. Larry always arrived with a smile and a song and he will be fondly remembered with pride. His wife Doreen and his combined family, made up of children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, survive him.

John Fosker of Quotax, London Taxi Insurance Services said "Our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time".