A DISABLED traveller whose boat has run aground at Linton Lock, near York, may have to wait for heavy rain before it is refloated.

The one-legged man, who is believed to be called Tom, became stranded on a sand bank at the busy lock, which is home to Sammy the seal.

Ian Fuller, owner of Linton Lock Leisureways, said it was unlikely that the house boat would be freed until heavy rain fell.

He said: "The level of the river has fallen since he was originally stranded, and now he is even higher and drier.

"There were a few showers yesterday, but we need some substantial rainfall to bring the river up by a few feet."

The man, who is thought to be from New Zealand, has stayed on his boat and is being brought supplies from the shore by rowboat. But forecasters are not predicting rain until Tuesday or Wednesday next week.

The Evening Press commandeered a boat to speak to the stranded houseboat owner, who lives on the vessel with his wife.

He said: "I'm obviously really embarrassed about it. I don't want to say anything other than I went down the wrong side of the lock and got stuck.

"I will sit tight here until it rains and the river level rises so we can float off."

He said he would leave the boat to enjoy a meal at the restaurant overlooking the lock.

Updated: 11:26 Saturday, May 04, 2002