COLIN Addison, Minstermen legend Dave Dunmore and York City fans favourite Barry Jackson all set off on the path to football stardom thanks to the York and District Minor League.

The organisation is celebrating its centenary year and is confident of a bright future ahead with 1,000 youngsters every week honing their skills for more than 100 teams across 39 clubs.

The York City and District Association Football Minor League was set up in 1908 - the year Asquith became British Prime Minster and Wolverhampton Wanderers beat Newcastle 3-1 in the FA Cup Final.

In the beginning, a league of six clubs was formed - consisting of Bootham, Bishopthorpe, St Lawrence's, Layerthorpe, Rowntrees and Cherry Street Mission.

The First World War halted league activities but, following the conflict, it thrived and - by early 1939 - 14 teams were playing in division one (the 16-18 age group) and five teams in division two.

The League emerged even stronger from the Second World War but in 1957, youth club teams became so numerous it caused the end of the league.

It was due to Ken Hornby and Ken Bainbridge that the league was reformed when, in 1966, they approached the 66 clubs in the York and District League with the view to restarting the Minor League.

Since then, the body has gone from strength to strength and treasurer Ron Price, who has been on the league committee since 1995, sees no reason why that can't continue.

"The success of the league has been down to the many hard working committee members and club volunteers over the past 100 years," he said. "All have given their time voluntarily and it has been invaluable service.

"If you compare this to the 75th anniversary, we had 20 clubs and now, 25 years later, we have 39 and that's testament to a league that is going from strength to strength. It is magnificent."

Price said the league had been grateful to British Sugar who had sponsored the Minor League for ten years before the factory closed. Now, with an annual trophy bill of more than £2,000, Price said the organisation was once again seeking a willing sponsor.

Any company who wants to get involved should ring Price on 01904 412229.