Acid attack victim Quinton Binns -- on the road to an amazing recovery -- has pleaded for better protection for taxi drivers.

And yesterday the plucky 55-year-old cabbie urged Bermudians to lobby MPs to support him.

He wants a taxi driver to have the power to order would-be passengers to identify themselves.

And if they refuse, then the driver should feel free to turn them away -- without risking the wrath of the Transport Control Department.

"We need that protection, and I know quite a few drivers support me,'' said Mr. Binns.

His plea comes seven months after the horrific attack which nearly blinded him.

Three young men hurled acid in his face as he drove them along Old Road, Shelly Bay.

After the men had left, Mr. Binns accelerated despite his injuries and radioed for help.

The only tell-tale sign of the June 14 nightmare is a small scar.

It signals a remarkable recovery for the 55-year-old whose plight touched Bermudians.

His two saviours, he claims, are his wife and God.

"I am recovering really well. My wife has been giving me medicine, and Almighty God has really helped me come through.

"There is a big difference in the way I look now from the days after the attack.

"It is like Mr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. The contrast is amazing. I haven't made a complete recovery, however.

"There has been a slight deterioration in one of my eyes, and I have new glasses.'' Inside, however, he still bears the scars of that night, although even these are healing.

"I do get flashbacks occasionally,'' he said.

And he admits he is now a lot more cautious about picking up passengers, scrutinising them before accepting their fares.

"I look them over, and if they are wearing a hood, as one of my attackers was, then I won't pick them up.'' Mr. Binns says he has made several return trips to the scene of the attack, and has overcome any fears.

"I'm not going to let these men wreck my livelihood. I'm still determined to drive a taxi.'' In a letter in yesterday's Royal Gazette , Mr. Binns heaps praise on his well-wishers.

"I can let you all know your prayers on my behalf were heard by the Almighty God, because I have been healed with just a minor scar on the outside; the inner scars are also healing.

"In spite of this unfortunate incident, Bermuda is still a warm and beautiful place, with warm and caring people.

"I know, because of the care and concern you showed my family and myself.'' Mr. Binns, speaking for his family as well, picks out for thanks the Radio Cabs dispatchers, the Police, and hospital and ambulance staff.

And he adds: "To the organisations, individuals and groups who assisted with the donations, cards, phone calls, we say many, many thanks.'' FACES APART -- Taxi driver Quinton Binns in the immediate aftermath of the acid attack (left) and as he looks today.