LOANEE prop Tom Buckenham has ended his spell at York City Knights and returned to Doncaster Dragons with endorsements ringing in his ears.

The young forward played nine times for the Knights, seven as substitute, with his last appearance being in the comeback win at Keighley nine days ago.

Knights coach Mick Cook said: "We've got a few players coming back so we had to let Tom go. He did a good job for us. He was great to work with, had a good attitude and worked hard at his game, and I'd like to think he's taken something from his time with us as well as some valuable first-team experience. I would not hesitate in bringing him back."

Cook's pack is now strengthening once more, with Craig Forsyth fit again, David Bates due back from his drugs ban at the start of next month and second-rows John Smith and trialist James Ward, along with Aussie Simon Friend, having also proved an ability to move forward.

Updated: 10:01 Tuesday, April 19, 2005