A London black cab driver who returned £10,000 in cash left behind by his passengers has been named a local hero.
Michael O’Flynn, who has been praised for his honesty, generosity and long-standing support for families travelling to Great Ormond Street Hospital, has been named the London regional winner of the Acorn Taxi Hero Award.
The award, launched by taxi insurance specialist Acorn Insurance, honours drivers who demonstrate outstanding kindness, bravery and service to their passengers and communities.
Mr O’Flynn said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be named London’s Taxi Hero. When someone leaves something valuable in your cab, you want to make sure it gets back to them. Returning the money and passports was simply the right thing to do.”
He was recognised for returning around £10,000 in cash and two passports left behind in his cab, after retracing his route and locating the passengers, reuniting them with their belongings the same day.
He regularly offers free rides to parents whose children are being treated at Great Ormond Street, as well as nurses working at the hospital.
For 20 years, he has also volunteered with the Children’s Magical Taxi Tour, an annual event where around 100 London black cabs take children and families to Disneyland Paris.
Mr O’Flynn said: “Having been a Magical Taxi Tour driver for 20 years, I’ve witnessed first-hand the amazing work that this charity does providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience for children and their families.”
It is the latest heartwarming story from the capital, following two Ilford siblings winning a national cake competition and the founder of Taj Stores being honoured on Brick Lane.
