Taxi drivers are being urged to brush up their manners by Bermuda Taxi Association president Michael Ray who said rude cabbies are a turn-off for tourists.

Mr. Ray said training was on the cards for drivers because a good attitude was needed to ensure visitors enjoyed their stay.

The comments come after Mr. Ray joined the Bermuda Alliance For Tourism?s product development committee.

Asked what he wanted to change he said: ?We need drivers who have tourism at heart, not those who are going to be obnoxious. From the day the guest arrives to the day they leave we want nothing but the best.

?We can do that through training and teaching people skills. I think the Tourism department has something on the cards.?

He said ultimately it was down to the Transport Control Department to ensure shady characters were not issued licences.

BAT executive director Wayne Smith said he was delighted to have Mr. Ray join his team and bring vital input from drivers.