We are delighted to formally announce the installation of Chris Hearnden as the new Master of the Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers, following our Installation Court Dinner.

Chris succeeds Leigh Dargan, taking the helm of the 104th Livery Company of the City of London after serving as Upper Warden. The Court extends its gratitude to Leigh for her dedicated leadership over the past year and warmly welcomes the new Court of Wardens—including Upper Warden Silvi Oliveira and Renter Warden Steve Bates—as they step into their roles for the 2026/27 Livery year.

Under Master Hearnden’s leadership, the Company remains steadfast in its core commitments:

Charitable Excellence: Final preparations are now underway for our flagship annual Magical Taxi Tour, where a convoy of London taxis will take hundreds of children with life-limiting illnesses on a trip of a lifetime to Disneyland Paris.

Supporting Our Veterans: Continuing our proud backing of the Armed Forces Covenant, helping former service personnel transition into rewarding careers within the London taxi trade.

Promoting Trade & Education: Safeguarding the tradition, standards, and future of the licensed London taxi industry through education, philanthropy, and strong civic ties across the City of London.

Please join us in wishing Master Chris Hearnden a successful and fulfilling year in office.