A POOLE taxi driver was backed by a former England football legend in his fundraising work for a children’s charity.

Paul Owen, who works for Poole Radio Cabs, has decorated his car for the summer in a World Cup-theme to raise funds for Gully’s Place, which is supported by Poole Hospital Charity.

When he picked up the former Tottenham Hotspurs star, Paul ‘Gazza’ Gascoigne in Sandbanks, the ex-footballer was busy taking photos of the car, which is decked out with England flags, images of football players and cuddly toy lions.

He added: “He was brilliant. He was taking pictures of himself in front of the car and I asked him if I could get a picture of him in front of the taxi, and he was only too happy to help.

“He wasn’t in the car very long but when I asked him what he thought England’s chances were of lifting the World Cup, he said: ‘You just never know what could happen’.”

Previously, Paul has decorated his taxi for Christmas and for Easter, all in support of Gully’s Place at Poole Hospital. However, he says that the England football-themed additions have been the most popular.

He says that he is continuing to collect donations from passengers, friends and colleagues for Gully’s Place, which helps children and young people with serious conditions.

Contact Poole Hospital Charity on 01202 448449 or go to Poole.nhs.uk