A NEW operator to run the pleasure boats at Otley's Wharf-emeadows Park has still to come forward.

With just more than a month before the start of the traditional boating season, Leeds City Council has not managed to find someone to take on the boating rights.

It says although people have enquired, no one has the necessary equipment and safety qualifications.

A spokesman for Leeds City Council's leisure services department, said: "There has been no written applications for boating rights at Wharfemeadows Park.

"Our parks and countryside division advertised for prospective operators to submit their tenders, and although there were some enquiries, there were no concrete applications.

"We are trying our best to seek a suitable operator who can fulfil all the conditions required, and we will continue in our efforts to look for one to run the service this summer. We would like to take this opportunity to call out for an operator who can supply between ten and 15 rowing boats, motor launch, a river boom and operating within all current safety standards. If there is anyone who can provide this service, we would like to hear from them. Contact Sean Flesher, Leeds Leisure Services Park and Countryside officer on (0113) 237 5208.

l The boats, which in their heyday attracted hundreds of people to Otley, have been absent from the river for two years. Last year the council failed to attract an operator and in 2001 they were cancelled because of the foot and mouth epidemic.