A long-running row between a boat owner and the Broads Authority over mooring in a dyke has ended up in court.  

John Royal disputes that he should have to pay tolls to moor in waters beside his home at Wayford Bridge near Stalham. 

Tolls are needed for any vessels that are kept or used within the Broads Authority's navigation area or adjacent waters.

READ MORE: Norfolk Broads row breaks out between fishermen and boater

Appearing at Norwich Magistrates’ Court he argued that the authority’s own regulations meant he was allowed to use the immediately adjacent Long Dyke, off the River Ant.   

“This is very much a matter of principle and I regret it has come to this,” he told magistrates. 

He pleaded not guilty to a single charge of mooring his auxiliary yacht called Tilly without paying the toll on May 30 last year.  

The dispute centres on the definition of adjacent waters and whether landowners or adjacent homeowners can moor without paying tolls, the court heard. 

Magistrates were told Mr Royal disagrees with how rules have been interpreted.

The case will be heard on February 3 next year.