Carol Swiers, a private hire driver from Newnham-on-Severn, is the South West winner of the Acorn Taxi Hero Award 2026. On its winners page, Acorn names her among 11 regional winners chosen by its judging panel, with the national result due on Wednesday 11 November 2026.
The Forester reported on Thursday 5 November 2026 that the Forest of Dean driver, of Newnham Private Hire, was recognised for help to the local rural community. A caption with the report dates the firm to 2023. The report covers hospital appointments for elderly residents, support for vulnerable passengers after they leave hospital, and time given to local people.
Nominations in that report describe what she does when she collects vulnerable patients who live alone. She thinks about what they will need once they are home, including something to eat. She also spends time with people who want company, sometimes staying for a cup of tea. One nomination recalled that she set aside her own plans for a Remembrance Day parade so she could take elderly care home residents instead.
Carol Swiers said: "I'm absolutely delighted to have been named the South West Taxi Hero. I started Newnham Private Hire because I could see how difficult it was for people in our area to get where they needed to go, particularly for medical appointments after our GP's surgery closed. I wanted to offer a professional service people could really rely on.
"For me, it's about treating everyone as an individual and looking after those who may be vulnerable with as much care and understanding as a relative would. Sometimes a little extra help, or simply taking the time to listen, can make a real difference.
"I'm proud to represent Newnham-on-Severn and I'm looking forward to the national winner being announced. Whatever happens, it's fantastic to see taxi drivers getting this kind of recognition."
In the same report, Ash Coakley, head of taxi insurance at Acorn Insurance, said: "Taxi drivers are often at the heart of their communities, and Carol is a brilliant example of how important that role can be, particularly in rural areas where transport options may be limited.
"Carol saw a need for reliable local transport and built a business around helping people. Whether she's guiding an elderly passenger through a hospital, making sure someone has food when they get home or giving up her own plans so care home residents can attend a Remembrance Day parade, she shows extraordinary thoughtfulness.
"What makes Carol's story so special is that these aren't isolated gestures. Her kindness and dedication are part of the service she provides every day. She's a thoroughly deserving South West Taxi Hero and exactly the kind of person these awards were created to recognise."
The prize
Acorn's terms give each regional winner a £100 Amazon gift card, and the national winner a £1,000 Amazon gift card and Britain's Taxi Hero trophy. The number of stories it heard is more than 1,700. Swiers remains in the running.