London’s longest serving taxi driver has retired, after 70 years of ferrying* passengers around the British capital.

Alfred Collins, 92, picked up his first fare in 1937 and plied* the streets until two years ago, keeping his black cab license* until last month when he finally decided he was not going to get back behind the wheel.

As well as ordinary folk, he has also had former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and the actress Joan Collins in the back of his cab.

“It has been a great honor to serve the people of London,” Collins said after receiving a special honor for long service from Transport for London and the Public Carriage Office (PCO).

“It really does not seem that nearly 70 years has passed by. I have had the pleasure of meeting people from all walks of life, politicians, celebrities* and the great British public.

“Life is all about communication and I have enjoyed sharing my vast experience of life as well as learning a lot from some of my passengers.

“I will treasure* these memories for the rest of my life,” said the widower*, who lists current affairs and computing among his hobbies.

About 40,000 drivers are currently licensed with the PCO.

All drivers are required to sit “The Knowledge,” which tests their ability to remember in detail the roads and landmarks* within a six-mile radius* of Charing Cross in central London.

Applicants typically take about 36 months to learn the 320 routes and are often seen practicing on scooters*.

Would-be drivers have to be at least 21 but there is no upper age limit.

Driving licenses in Britain are normally valid* until the age of 70 but older drivers have to renew their permits every three years, subject to medical conditions.