A YORK backpacker who is trapped in strife-torn Bolivia said today he hoped the resignation of the country's president would ease his plight.

The Evening Press reported yesterday that Dan Baines, 24, from Nether Poppleton, and his friend Mark Noone, were stuck in a hostel in the Bolivian capital, La Paz.

They travelled there as part of a round-the-world trip, but became caught up in massive civil unrest against the rule of President Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada, which has left more than 70 people dead.

Dan told the Evening Press today that the overnight news of the president's resignation had left him hopeful that "things are on the up from now on" - although the city was still being rocked by explosions. "Though nothing is completely confirmed, the atmosphere among the protesters seems to have turned from one of anger to one of triumph. The dynamite continues and has become louder, but my impression is that this is how you celebrate as well as protest in Bolivia."

He revealed that he had turned down a chance to be evacuated in an airlift organised by the German embassy for their own nationals, but which foreigners could join at a cost of 600 US dollars.

The subsequent lightening of the mood in La Paz made him think now that that decision might have been a good one. "Anyway, we're going to venture out now and try to find a beer while spirits are high in the city," said Dan.

La Paz airport is closed as a result of the trouble, which was sparked by a proposal to export gas to the U.S. and Mexico through neighbouring Chile.

Under Bolivia's constitution, Vice-President Carlos Mesa has taken over the presidency.

The Foreign Office has advised Britons against travelling to Bolivia, and warned those already in the country to keep off the streets, not to travel, and to avoid any demonstrations.

Dan's father, Paul, said: "The hope is that things will quieten down now. The need for blockades should disappear and he should be able to get transport out of the country.

"We are in regular contact - I am very relieved."

Updated: 10:03 Saturday, October 18, 2003