A London taxi driver is collecting the autographs of celebrity passengers - supporting Bradford's bid to be European Capital of Culture 2008.

Cockney cabbie Gary Cobb is already learning the "Bradford Knowledge" to spread the word about the district's bid.

As reported in the Telegraph & Argus recently, Gary's cab is covered in Bradford 2008 livery to promote the bid in the capital city and he has been busy learning facts about Bradford and its bid so he can tell his fares what the 2008 logos are all about.

Now, when he picks up celebrity passengers, he will not only be telling them about Bradford, but also asking them to do their bit to back the bid.

Gary is planning to put a special Capital of Culture book in the back of his cab for London's big names to sign.

"All the cabbies in London drive stars around at one stage or another," said Gary. "There's been a lot of interest in the Bradford 2008 cab generally - people are always asking about it when they get in - and if big names get behind the bid it will add strength to it."

Sonia Lewis, of Bradford's Capital of Culture team, said: "We've already got a celebrity Capital of Culture book going in Bradford at the Alhambra and St George's Hall.

"Having a book in Gary's cab will hopefully get some more big names behind the bid."

The Bradford book has been signed by stars who have appeared in productions in Bradford over the past year, like Penelope Keith, Amanda Barrie and Kid Creole.

Bradford band Smokie added their names during a recent appearance in the city.

Bass player Terry Uttley said: "I'm Bradford born and raised, and I think going for Capital of Culture is a great idea.

"Bradford was the wool capital in the 19th century - why shouldn't it be a Capital of Culture in the 21st century?

"With Gareth Gates as one of our main cultural ambassadors, we can't fail to be a success.

"Bradford has a lot to offer but it gets a negative press. If it wins this, hopefully more people will come and see what there is."