Transport for London honours oldest taxi driver

21 Nov 2007 04:37 PM

London’s oldest taxi driver, Alfred Bluestone aged 94, who recently retired has been honoured for his dedicated service to residents and visitors to the Capital.

Alfred drove his first passenger in 1947 and his last on 26 September 2007.

In a ceremony at Transport for London’s Public Carriage Office for him and his family, he was presented with a plaque and certificate for serving the taxi industry for 60 years.

Presenting the plaque, Taxi and Private Hire Director, Ed Thompson, said: “I would like to thank Mr. Bluestone for his sterling work – he has provided a valuable service to Londoners and visitors to the city.

“London's taxi trade has a reputation for excellence, and Alfred has certainly played his part over the last 60 years to maintain that reputation.”

Alfred studied for the Knowledge using a push bike. The Knowledge is a famous test all London’s taxi drivers must pass to prove they know all the streets and places of interest in inner London, and the quickest route between any two places.

He said: “I enjoyed serving the people of London. It was a great privilege.

“When I started working as a taxi driver, we had very basic vehicles that did not even have heating facilities, but we still enjoyed our work. Modern taxis have fantastic features and facilities, making them safer for both the driver and passenger.

“I met some interesting people over the years, and I learnt a lot from them. I found taxi driving to be a really rewarding career.”

Some of the famous people he carried include Rat Pack members Sammy Davies Junior, Frank Sinatra, Peter Lawford, Joey Bishop and Dean Martin. He also remembers carrying film actress Judy Garland.

Alfred’s advice to the taxi drivers of today is to take interest in what’s happening around them and in the city at large, so they can be informative and helpful to their passengers.

He is an Arsenal fan and at 94, he remains jovial and still keeps up to date with current affairs.

Notes to Editors:

· There are over 21,000 licensed taxis (Hackney carriages or ‘black cabs’) in London, and nearly 25,000 licensed taxi drivers.

· Taxis can be hailed from the street or from one of more than 500 designated taxi ranks, or booked through an operator.

· Images of Mr. Bluestone are available on request, although unfortunately we are unable to offer any interviews.

Patricia Mulenga
Press Officer
Email: patriciamulenga@tfl.gov
Direct line: 020 7126 1468