The London Taxi Drivers’ Charity for Children and Jewish charity Norwood have a historic relationship that goes back almost 90 years.

Taxi driver Mick Cohen, who was housed at the Jewish orphanage in Norwood as a child, first had the idea to raise money for the Norwood orphanage in 1928, recruiting 12 black cab drivers to help his cause.

As well as organising the first outing for the children, he and his colleagues raised money for the home – and the newly named London Taxi Drivers’ Charity for Children was born.

The fund, which to this day supports children with special needs through donating to relevant charities and organising outings, recently donated close to £700 to Norwood’s Buckets and Spades respite centre in East Finchley. The money has gone toward redecorating one of the bedrooms at the respite centre which is used daily for overnight short stays for children with learning difficulties and complex health needs.

Claire Politzer, Buckets and Spades Home Manager said: “Donations like this are absolutely crucial for us to be able to keep offering the support we do for young people and their families. In particular, the work to refurbish this bedroom now makes it a warmer and cosier place for children to stay overnight and helps to create that home away from home feel. This is not only essential for the children we support, it also helps their families relax while their children are here, safe in the knowledge that the environment equally matches the high level of care they receive.”

The London Taxi Drivers’ Charity for Children said: “We are extremely pleased to be able to provide continued support to Norwood’s Buckets and Spades respite centre. We are thrilled with the result of the newly redecorated bedroom and the difference it will help make to the lives of people supported by Norwood.”