FOUR people have died in the city’s rivers this year, prompting York man Dave Benson to set up a £35,000 charity appeal for a rescue boat, staffed by volunteers to run at busy times such as Saturday nights and race days.

The appeal got off to a great start last week when a Land Rover was donated by local dealer Armstrong Massey.

Today the appeal has been given a further boost with news that local businessman David Wardle is donating £500 to the cause.

Mr Wardle, who runs the Chowdene camping and caravan site, says he has witnessed river deaths and says the boat is a good idea. He is urging other local business to dig deep, arguing that the £35,000 could be raised in a week.

“Hotels and pubs near the river should be donating something,” he said.

These two generous donations have given the rescue boat appeal a great start. Let’s hope they inspire others to back this good cause.