FORMER York City commercial manager Peter Salter has switched football codes and joined York City Knights RLFC.

The 45-year-old had been with the Minstermen in a full-time capacity since November 2001 but their relegation to the Nationwide Conference forced the club into summer cost-cutting redundancies, with Salter one of those casualties.

However, the Knights were quick to take him to Huntington Stadium and he was today officially unveiled as their new commercial manager, a brand new role for the ever-growing professional outfit.

His responsibilities will include bringing new sponsors into the National League club and seeking out other fundraising opportunities, and Knights chief executive Steve Ferres was "delighted to have him on board".

He said: "He's got a wealth of experience on the commercial side and his knowledge of the York area and the businesses in York will lend itself to working with a club that is committed to developing the game in the community and obtaining community-related sponsorship.

"He was disappointed with the situation at City but he's excited about the challenge ahead."

Salter concurred. "It's an exciting time for the Knights and I'm happy to be joining at a time when the club is doing well," he said.

"I'm hoping I can use that success to develop relationships with local businesses."

London-born Salter, who moved north in 1995, is relatively new to rugby league but has quickly found an enthusiasm for the sport and was keen to use his commercial expertise with the Knights.

"The job is very similar (to the one at City) although the difference with the Knights is that there has never been a commercial manager's role before and it's a role that can develop.

"Having witnessed a few games I'm getting to enjoy it and I'm looking forward to many more. It's a very exciting game and I'm pleased to have the opportunity to work in the sport and with the Knights."

Anyone wanting to attend tomorrow night's York City Knights Fans' Forum at Huntington Stadium is reminded the event is ticket-only. The last remaining tickets, costing £2, are available from the club office, tel 01904 656105. The event, in the stadium bar, starts at 7.30pm.

Updated: 10:45 Wednesday, July 21, 2004