For nearly two decades, London's black cab drivers have volunteered annually to transport military veterans to Remembrance Day ceremonies, a tradition that has recently undergone a significant change following a dispute over the use of the word “poppy.” The group, formerly known as Poppy Cabs, has rebranded as Cabs-for-Veterans after the Royal British Legion (RBL), Britain’s largest armed forces charity, sought to formalize control over the use of “poppy” in the initiative’s name and logo.

The dispute arose when the RBL introduced a licensing agreement aimed at protecting its trademarks and design rights related to the official Remembrance poppy symbol and the use of the word “poppy.” While the RBL does not own copyright over the botanical flower itself, it does hold registered trademarks in the UK Intellectual Property Office for specific poppy imagery associated with Remembrance events. The charity proposed a “restrictive licensing agreement” to Poppy Cabs, which the volunteer cab drivers found unacceptable.

Mike Hughes, founder of Poppy Cabs and a veteran volunteer driver, declined to sign the agreement, describing it as overly controlling and bureaucratic. Speaking on behalf of the drivers, Hughes emphasized their commitment to providing the free taxi service for veterans and expressed frustration at being told how to use the word “poppy.” “Never tell a taxi driver what to do because that way lies trouble,” he said, explaining that the organization has always operated informally, a factor he credited for its success.

The annual event sees hundreds of black taxis assemble on Westminster Bridge each November to collect veterans from London’s mainline train stations and escort them to key Remembrance Day ceremonies at the Cenotaph, Westminster Abbey, and Hyde Park Corner. More than 2,000 journeys are offered free of charge, enabling around 10,000 veterans and participants from over 300 armed forces and civilian associations to pay tribute to fallen soldiers.

Longtime volunteer Lisa Nancarrow described the RBL’s legal intervention as “petty” and “unnecessary,” citing the strong dedication of London taxi drivers to the cause. Many cabbies view the Poppy Cabs tradition as a symbol of respect and remembrance that has brought communities together for years.

From the RBL’s perspective, the licensing effort was intended to protect the charity’s intellectual property and ensure proper use of the poppy symbol. The charity stated that discussions were held regarding a free-of-charge licensing agreement but acknowledged the decision by the cab group to change their name. The RBL expressed continued support and gratitude toward Cabs-for-Veterans and its volunteers, affirming its commitment to working with them in the future.

Supporters of the cab initiative lament the timing of the dispute, noting that this year marks one of the last opportunities for many Second World War veterans to participate in the commemorative events. The group included veterans such as Mervyn Kersh, 101, who served in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps, and Royal Navy veteran Henry Rice, aged 100, both of whom took part in recent services.

Despite the name change, volunteers vow to maintain the spirit and dedication that have characterized their efforts, continuing to assist veterans with quiet generosity and pride on Remembrance Sunday. The Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, with roots dating back to 1948, remains a cornerstone of this longstanding tradition that links London’s taxi community with those who have served in the armed forces.