A CYCLING fisherman is expected to take up a permanent post overlooking the River Ouse.

The Fisher of Dreams sculpture could become the latest addition to the Sustrans cycle link between York and Selby.

The four-metre high steel man will sit on the girders of the swing bridge at Naburn, with a two-metre high dog and a fishing rod at his side and a bicycle laid at his feet.

The design was chosen by more than 50 per cent of the 800 people who took the chance to state their preference from three designs put on show at a series of open days in January.

And the City of York Council is expected to grant permission for the sculpture when it meets on Thursday.

The fisherman was designed by local artist Pete Rogers.

Roger Armistead, the council's development control officer, said: "The girders (that will be used for the sculpture) were originally a base for a cabin which controlled the swing bridge mechanism.

"The appearance of the sculpture is considered to be appropriate for the site, and the design has the support of the owners of the cycle track and bridge, Sustrans, and is in accordance with their aims to provide landmark sculptures on their routes."

Updated: 10:31 Friday, April 13, 2001