End of an era as long-standing Melksham taxi firm closes

The doors are closing on a familiar name in Melksham after a taxi firm serving the town for 27 years made its final journeys.

Paul’s Taxis closed on Sunday 11th October, bringing an end to nearly three decades of service to customers across Melksham.

The business began as The Freefone Taxi, founded by Paul Carter senior 27 years ago. Paul Carter junior joined in April 2001, when the business became Paul’s Freefone Taxi.

The firm later became known as Paul’s Taxis, with several drivers joining over the years. Paul senior gradually stepped back from the business before retiring in December 2015.

The firm continued to serve the community through difficult times, including the Covid pandemic, when Paul junior said he delivered more than 500 prescriptions to people who were unable or advised not to leave their homes.

However, ongoing problems with his Ford vehicle eventually took their toll. Paul said three garages across two counties, including two Ford specialists, had been unable to resolve the issues despite several months of work and thousands of pounds spent on repairs.

Paul thanked everyone who had used the firm over the years as he looks ahead to the next chapter.

“Thanks to (mostly) everyone who’s used my services over the last 25 years. I’ve already noticed how anonymous I am outside of my taxi!” he said.