THE Evening Press can proudly boast a new columnist having swooped to sign York City Knights coach Richard Agar.

The Huntington Stadium chief is to have his own column in the award-winning newspaper every Wednesday - starting on Wednesday.

The Press already provides the best daily coverage of the Knights and this weekly column, we can confirm today, is part of an exciting new associated sponsorship package between ourselves and the city's on-the-up rugby league club.

The agreement, however, will not impinge on the Press' editorial independence, meaning readers will continue to enjoy the best coverage.

In his column - to be called "Agar's Angle" - the Knights chief will air his views on various issues regarding rugby league and sport in general.

Evening Press Sports Editor Martin Jarred said: "We are delighted that Richard will be writing a column for our readers.

"I am sure it will be highly informative giving a rare insight into the Knights' dressing room.

"The squad have made a great start to the season and let's hope Richard can steer them to glory at the end of the campaign."

York City player-manager Chris Brass has his own column, "Brass Tacks", which is published every Thursday, and this new recruit adds further to the Evening Press' top-quality in-depth sports coverage in the Minster city.

Make sure you don't miss Agar's first offering in Wednesday's Evening Press.

Updated: 11:14 Tuesday, March 09, 2004