A Lifelong Inspiration
I have known Bernie for 35 years since I first came into the Liverpool taxi trade in 1989. He was a great inspiration to me as a new driver and opened my eyes to the rights and wrongs of the trade. I attended many union and council meetings with Bernie; there were no grey areas with him, just black and white, right and wrong. We stood together on many issues and were involved in many mass demonstrations in the city when we felt our voices were not being heard.
One such memory springs to mind when Councillor Paul Orr was the chair of the then Taxi Licensing Committee, and Bernie forced his hand to make the statement to his fellow committee members: “I’m fed up of you telling me what you can’t do; tell me what we can do to help this trade,” very reminiscent of the speech that JFK made to the citizens of America.
A Beacon of Hope and Joy
In every community, there are individuals who shine brightly, making a difference through their dedication, kindness, and unwavering spirit. Bernard Buxton MBE is one such individual. Known affectionately to many as simply Bernie or Bucko, he was not just a taxi driver and campaigner but a beacon of hope and joy, especially to the children of Merseyside, whose lives he touched through his tireless campaigning with L.T.D.C.I.C.O.F., raising funds, organising nights out, and the brilliant golf days in Liverpool.
Bernard’s journey as a taxi driver has been more than a profession; it was a calling of sorts as he fought for the betterment of the trade. Day after day, he navigated the bustling streets with a smile, always a joke or two, and the shortest of shorts during the summer months! Yet it is his work beyond the wheel that truly sets him apart. Bernie has dedicated countless hours to organizing and campaigning for children’s days out in Southport, Blackpool, and Euro Disney, understanding the profound impact such experiences can have on young minds. His efforts have brought smiles to countless faces, providing children with moments of joy and unforgettable memories.
Recognition and Legacy
Awarded the MBE for his charitable services as the founder of The Liverpool Taxi Drivers Children in Care Outing Fund, Bernie’s recognition is well-deserved. This honor is a testament to his selflessness and the positive influence he has on those around him. It acknowledges not only his professional excellence but also his heartfelt commitment to making the world a better place for the younger generation.
Creating Unforgettable Memories
Many favourite memories with Bernie involve watching him orchestrate many children’s outings with the precision of a maestro and the heart of a guardian angel. Seeing the joy on the children’s faces as they experienced the feeling of importance, being whisked through red traffic lights in a motorcade of taxis and police outriders, was a sight to behold. This is a day when the kids can feel special, and their every need is catered for, all thanks to Bernard’s hard work and dedication. His ability to connect with people regardless of age and make them feel valued is a rare and beautiful gift.
Happy 80th Birthday, Bernie!
Recently, I was honored to attend Bernie’s 80th birthday celebrations at Old Swan Club on June 21st, 2024. I felt that we should do something special to mark the occasion and to let Bernie know how well thought of he is by all the taxi trade, his family, and friends. We commissioned his very own taxi wrap!
His son Ian provided some great photos, and we did the rest. He got such a shock when I picked him up on the Farm (Stockbridge Village) in my full chauffeur regalia! It took him five minutes to realize the pictures were of him on the taxi and slightly longer to realize it was me taking him to his party. He greeted me with the scouse phrase of “you bas***d,” an affectionate term nonetheless.
A Guiding Light in the Community
Well, here’s to Sir Bernard of Buxton MBE. You are more than a friend; you are an inspiration. Your kindness, determination, and unwavering commitment to helping others exemplify the very best of humanity. You remind us all of the power of one person to make a significant difference in the world. Your legacy is not just in the accolades you have received but in the countless lives you have touched and the smiles you have brought to so many faces.
Bernard Buxton MBE—a true hero, a cherished friend, and a guiding light in the taxi trade and the Liverpool community.
Neil Richards
Transit Media
Liverpool Taxi Drivers Children In Care Outing Fund
LTDCICOF Facebook page
