A FOREST of Dean cabbie has been recognised for her dedication to the community as South West Regional Winner of the Acorn Taxi Hero Awards.

Competing against over 1,700 nominees nationally, Carol Swiers, a Newnham-on-Severn taxi driver with Newnham Private Hire, was rewarded for going above and beyond for the local rural community.

This included helping elderly residents get to hospital appointments, supporting vulnerable passengers after discharge and giving up her time for local people.

Carol Swiers said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have been named the South West Taxi Hero. I started Newnham Private Hire because I could see how difficult it was for people in our area to get where they needed to go, particularly for medical appointments after our GP’s surgery closed. I wanted to offer a professional service people could really rely on.

“For me, it’s about treating everyone as an individual and looking after those who may be vulnerable with as much care and understanding as a relative would. Sometimes a little extra help, or simply taking the time to listen, can make a real difference.

“I’m proud to represent Newnham-on-Severn and I’m looking forward to the national winner being announced. Whatever happens, it’s fantastic to see taxi drivers getting this kind of recognition.”

Carol Swiers
Carol Swiers was recognised for her dedication to the local community (Supplied)

Her support for the community was highlighted in her nominations. They explained when collecting vulnerable patients who live alone, she also thinks about what they will need on returning home, including making sure they have something to eat.

Carol also often gives her time to people who simply need company, sometimes staying for a cup of tea with passengers.

One nomination recalled how Carol gave up her own plans to attend a Remembrance Day parade so she could take elderly care home residents instead.

Acorn Insurance, the UK’s largest taxi insurance specialist, launched the awards to celebrate the unsung heroes of Britain’s taxi industry, including drivers who demonstrate exceptional acts of bravery, kindness and dedication for their passengers and communities.

Ash Coakley, Head of Taxi Insurance at Acorn Group, said: “Taxi drivers are often at the heart of their communities, and Carol is a brilliant example of how important that role can be, particularly in rural areas where transport options may be limited.

“Carol saw a need for reliable local transport and built a business around helping people. Whether she’s guiding an elderly passenger through a hospital, making sure someone has food when they get home or giving up her own plans so care home residents can attend a Remembrance Day parade, she shows extraordinary thoughtfulness.

“What makes Carol’s story so special is that these aren’t isolated gestures. Her kindness and dedication are part of the service she provides every day. She’s a thoroughly deserving South West Taxi Hero and exactly the kind of person these awards were created to recognise.”

The winners of Acorn’s awards were selected by a judging panel drawn from the taxi and insurance sectors.

Carol will receive a £100 Amazon gift card and is in the running for the national title, with the overall winner set to receive a £1,000 Amazon gift card and the inaugural Britain’s Taxi Hero trophy.

The national winner will be announced on Wednesday, November 11.