YORK only exists because of her rivers. Yet we largely ignore them.

When the Ouse and the Foss make it into public debate it is usually centred on the threat they pose.

Regular floods mean we see our rivers as a problem rather than a blessing.

So we are pleased to report tonight a more positive tale from the riverbank.

A new pleasure boat company is ready to cruise the Ouse.

Councillors have given the Chester Boat Company permission to use the Wellington Row quayside for passenger boats and self-drive hire boats.

If the company successfully sails through further challenges, it could soon be plying its trade.

Some river users have objected, saying that there is too much congestion on this stretch of water already.

Yet York carried far more traffic for centuries, when it traded as a busy inland port.

The arrival of the Chester Boat Company will offer greater choice to tourists and residents who want to take to the waters.

This is not the first time York has looked to Chester for inspiration: it has developed its city walls better and runs sucessful Mystery Plays too.

We hope the company's arrival will prompt renewed interest in our waterways.

York has been talking of reviving a river festival for at least 100 years.

This is a good time to float the idea again.

Updated: 10:59 Monday, October 11, 2004