Virgin (WCT)
By now almost all members who wish to work at one of the designated stations would have done so and although the WCWC rank is at first still open to those that have not previously covered this account (00750), drivers will now be given a second opportunity if the need arises.
   The process is now finely tuned and we must all take due praise that such a large operation has gone almost without a hitch. So much so, that next year (2004) we have again been asked by senior management at West Coast Trains to supply taxis throughout the year at each of the nine blockades that they have planned. As soon as details are confirmed, you will of course all be notified. So please watch this space…

Terminal Upgrade
After testing, modification and more testing, the upgrade programme is now ready to commence on Monday 3 November 2003. You will have all received a letter allocating a time slot at Roman Way for the upgrade to be carried out, and explaining that it will not only offer you many new enhancements to the system, but will greatly 

improve radio signals which have been a problem to some of you. Information sheets will also be readily available to explain the relevant changes. Account clients will also benefit from these changes. They will offer them greater flexibility and it will yet again put Dial-a-Cab ahead of our competitors. We hope to complete every taxi by late January 2004 and it would be greatly appreciated if all members are punctual and keep to their appointment times. To help the operation progress as smoothly as possible, Roman Way will be open later during normal working days and also over the weekends so as not to inconvenience any of you more than absolutely necessary. It will all be worth it in the end!

Marshalling
With Christmas just around the corner, can I mention that the Dial-a-Cab Marshals will again this year be present at Battersea Park most nights during the festive season. It was a great success last year, not only for our Society but also for the Licensed Trade as a whole. So please spread the word to non-radio drivers that we are combating the unlicensed trade as well as providing large volumes of work from this venue.

I am certain that our corporate clients will require our services at many of their functions too and that trip figures will be busier this year, but regular work like this is too good to turn down. It is also a great PR exercise for the Society. We are looking for your normal levels of support throughout December at all Marshalled events - without you, it will not succeed!

Goldman Sachs
Every month I mention that Goldman Sachs at St Bride St is a joint venture, but I see no reason why we can’t cover as much - if not more trips - than our fellow supplier. This account is becoming very busy again and it seems a shame that our members are not making full use of the rank and the volumes of work that come from it. There is no need to feel apprehensive about using the rank, our Marshal is there to assist you if you have the slightest problem.

Monitoring Via GPS
Finally, can I please remind you that our GPS is checked and monitored regularly from the Call Centre and together with the Marshals, we will be checking to ensure that all members are booking in correctly, especially at the evening ranks (W101, E14C and EC5) so that it is fair and equal for everyone. Any drivers who fall fail of the correct procedures and rules to gain an unfair advantage over their fellow members, will be dealt with in the appropriate way.

Allan Evans
allane@dialacab.co.uk