LONDON taxi drivers treated hundreds of disadvantaged and special needs children to a fun-packed day by the sea.

The London Taxi Drivers' Fund for Underprivileged Children brought 300 children out to Southend, in a convoy of 100 decorated taxis.

The group arrived at Cliffs Pavilion, Westcliff, and were met by Sammy the Shrimp and Elvis J Eel, Southend United FC's mascots.

After lunch, kids enjoying the sunshine and rides at Adventure Island, before returning to Cliffs for tea and a disco.

Raymond Leve, 58, spokesman for the charity, said: "Many of these children have never seen the seaside before, so this was a great experience. We cannot thank everyone involved enough."