A family is hoping that Ipswich taxi drivers will turn up in force to accompany a beloved cabbie on his final journey.
On Tuesday, March 7, a service will be held celebrating the life of Derrick Holder, who was affectionately known to many as ‘Speedy’. He died recently aged 90.
Mr Holder was a taxi driver in the town for many years. He only retired in his late 80s, having finally put the brakes on his long career in 2020 after the pandemic hit.
His funeral is being arranged by Alec Butcher Independent Funeral Directors.
The funeral parlour is hoping that Ipswich taxi drivers will join them on March 7, to drive along behind the hearse and give Mr Holder a fitting last journey.
The parlour saw a similar escort last month, when a convoy of motorbikes rode in procession behind the coffin of a devoted biker on January 30.
Another convoy was arranged in Great Yarmouth on January 27 for the funeral of Martin Henderson, whose coffin was escorted by more than 60 bikes.
Meanwhile in Ipswich, a procession of 50 bikers arrived to escort the coffin of Maurice Brame in November. Maurice was described by his family as having “heart of gold”, and being “a biker guy, through and through.”
Now, the family of Mr Holder is hoping that taxi drivers will show the same solidarity as the biking community.
The taxis will congregate outside Alec Butcher Independent Funeral Directors in Meredith Road on March 7 between 10am and 10:15am.
A spokesperson for Alec Butcher Independent Funeral Directors said that it would be helpful if taxi drivers can confirm their attendance in advance.
To do this, call the funeral parlour on: 01473 747999
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