A tragic incident occurred when the owner of a taxi company, Lance Ridden, passed away due to a suspected heart attack while in Marbella, Spain for his daughter’s wedding. Despite the unexpected loss, the family rallied together to ensure the wedding ceremony proceeded smoothly.
Hannah’s brothers escorted her down the aisle, and Lance’s wife, Sue, delivered a heartfelt speech that Lance had prepared in advance. Sue shared her initial desire to return home after the incident but was persuaded by Hannah and Jack not to cancel the wedding. Eventually, the family decided to go ahead with the ceremony as a tribute to Lance.
The couple, Hannah and Jack Bates, had previously held a smaller civil ceremony at Danson House in southeast London before the larger event in Spain, allowing Lance to fulfill his role as the father of the bride.
Lance, aged 66, along with his business partner Mark Robinson, had established a successful taxi business in the South East region over two decades, acquiring six competing firms along the way.
Lance’s involvement in the taxi industry began in his youth when his parents, Joyce and John, initiated a car business from their home in 1967. Starting by washing cabs for extra income, Lance later pursued a welding apprenticeship and secured profitable contracts both locally and internationally.
Following his first marriage and the birth of his daughter Hannah, Lance transitioned into the role of a council bailiff before venturing into taxi ownership by purchasing Vokes cab firm. In 2005, Lance married Sue, blending their families and creating a dynamic and lively household.
The couple shared a passion for travel, enjoying vacations in various destinations such as the Caribbean, Spain, and Turkey. Lance indulged in watersports, watching football matches, sailing on his boat, and playing squash in his leisure time.
Sue reflected on their blended family, expressing how the tragedy had brought them even closer together, highlighting their strong bond and harmonious relationships.