Transport for London (TfL) is celebrating its 25th anniversary with special birthday messages recorded by 25 young enthusiasts of the capital’s public transport.
The group of 5 to 16-year-olds was selected through a competition that saw hundreds of applicants, according to TfL.
These announcements, conveying birthday wishes to TfL and reminding listeners to “mind the gap,” will be broadcast hourly until 20:00 BST at 50 Tube and rail stations on Thursday.
London’s transport commissioner, Andy Lord, commented, “This is a moment to celebrate our successes over the past 25 years while also looking ahead to the future of our transport system, which we believe will be influenced greatly by our dedicated fans!”
This contest is part of a year-long celebration of TfL’s significant anniversary.
Participants were invited to express their favorite type of TfL transport—be it buses, the DLR, or the London Underground—through a creative description of 100 words highlighting its importance to them.
Gia, one of the winners, shared her joy of riding a double-decker bus with her family, enjoying the unique views from the top deck.
Nine-year-old Lennox, another of the chosen super fans, mentioned that his favorite was the Elizabeth Line because of its great “accessibility.”
He expressed his excitement over leaving school early to hear his recorded message played at Farringdon and Whitechapel, noting that it concluded with the iconic phrase, “mind the gap.”
TfL highlighted that many of the young participants who showcased their passion for transport were disabled and discussed how public transport enables them to discover more of London and connect with family and friends.
Seb Dance, the Deputy Mayor for Transport, remarked, “I have been truly impressed by the exceptional entries from young Londoners, who have demonstrated incredible enthusiasm for TfL and our transport services.”
He added, “The super fans competition is a wonderfully appropriate way to celebrate TfL’s 25th anniversary, and I look forward to hearing their announcements across the network today.”
In addition, special TfL25 roundel designs have been placed at 38 locations throughout TfL’s network, including Battersea Power Station, Gospel Oak, and Greenwich Peninsula, as part of the anniversary festivities.
