A SICK man struggled to get out of the River Thames when he fell into the water with crutches and a cast on his leg, an inquest heard.

Arthur Pounder was captured on CCTV falling backwards into Caversham Lock after he managed to cross the treacherous pathway.

His body was recovered from the water after being found by a member of the public in the early hours of January 27.

The 51-year-old had been drinking at The Alehouse in the town centre and agreed to visit the lock to dog-sit for the landlord.

Mie Lewandowska, his carer, told the inquest how Mr Pounder had previously lived on a houseboat in the area for two years.

Peter Bedford, senior coroner for Berkshire, recorded a verdict of accidental death at Reading Town Hall on Friday.

He said: "His mobility was impaired but he got across to dry land. For no apparent reason he just fell backwards and could not get out.

"It seems very likely that accident is the logical conclusion, particularly with the benefit of CCTV footage."

Water rescue teams from Caversham Road fire station were called to the scene shortly before 8am and he was declared dead by paramedics.

Mr Pounder, who was diabetic, had a cast on his leg after undergoing surgery to have several toes removed.

Although he was a more than capable swimmer, the coroner believed his ability to get out of the water may have been impaired after a night of heavy drinking.

He stayed at the pub until after closing time and 'stubbornly' made the lone journey to Caversham Lock despite being on crutches.

John Newick, the assistant bar manager from The Alehouse, said Mr Pounder was 'more drunk than usual' and was enjoying an evening with friends.

A study of his blood found he was nearly three times over the drink-driving limit. Although he was diabetic there was no evidence to suggest he has suffered a sudden attack.

Forensic investigators from Thames Valley Police were called and the area was cordoned off while the death was investigated.