Khalid Yaqub (35), of Millfield, picked up the first prize after coming out on top in a series of tough tests.

He beat more than 800 other cabbies to the prestigious £500 prize, and will be displaying his certificate in the back of his taxi over the next year.

He said: "I am so proud to have won this competition.

"The competition was very tough, and the result has given me even more confidence to do my job."

To start his year as champion taxi driver, Mr Yaqub yesterday picked up a new Hackney cab. He said: "I think my 14 years as a taxi driver helped me win. I know the car, and all the roads – every bend, hump and short cut."

Principle taxi licensing officer for Peterborough City Council Ken Gray said: "The standard was excellent this year, and the final standings were really close.

"The key roles for a taxi driver are to be responsible for their passengers, and to be an ambassador for the city, as taxi drivers are often the first thing people see when they come here.

"All the finalists proved they were great ambassadors for Peterborough."

Mr Yaqub agreed and said: "We get all sorts of people in the back of the cab, and it is important to make sure they are looked after. Most people in Peterborough are polite and good

passengers, but like everywhere you do get the odd one or two who are difficult."

To claim the top prize Mr Yaqub had to beat the other cabbies in a variety of criteria.

His driving was marked by his fares, and the condition of his car was examined in a mechanical inspection.

The 800 drivers were also marked on their personal hygiene and appearance.

The cabbies were then whittled down to the top six, and were quizzed on the Highway Code, before taking part in a 45 minute driving test conducted by the Cambridgeshire Advanced Driving Group.

Mr Yaqub said: "The whole competition was really tough, but the theory test was the most difficult section."

Tariq Mahboob picked up the £300 second prize, with David Snowdin finishing third and winning £200, with the prizes donated by Conders Garage.

The first Peterborough Taxi Driver of the Year title was claimed by David Ross last year.

http://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk/news/All-hail-king-Khalid-the.3229601.jp