72-year-old completes Knowledge of London after cycling the capital’s streets and living in a camper van

A 72-year-old man from Worthing has completed the Knowledge of London (KOL), earning his place among the ranks of licensed London taxi drivers after years of determination.

Peter Laszlo, who astonishingly cycled the capital’s complex network of streets while sleeping in a camper van when away from his Worthing home, was congratulated by Courtney Cornell, an ex-Knowledge examiner and now Knowledge teacher at the Taxi Academy. Cornell praised Peter’s achievement, describing him as proof that dedication and perseverance can overcome any challenge.

The Knowledge of London is widely regarded as one of the toughest professional qualifications in the world. Candidates must memorise around 20,000 streets and at least 6,000 points of interest within a six-mile radius of Charing Cross.

Training can take several years, with students known as “Knowledge boys and girls” travelling the city usually by scooter to learn every route and location.

Aspiring taxi drivers are tested in a series of oral “appearances” before Transport for London (TfL) examiners, where they must correctly describe routes between two points in London entirely from memory. The process is designed to ensure that black cab drivers can navigate the capital efficiently and safely without relying on GPS.

Mr Laszlo’s story has resonated across the trade, particularly for those who understand the commitment required to complete the Knowledge. His determination to finish the course despite multiple challenges has drawn praise from Knowledge teachers, fellow students and working cab drivers alike.

Cornell and the Taxi Academy say they hope Peter’s success encourages others of all ages to take up the challenge and keep the long-standing tradition of the Knowledge alive.