THE buckets that helped save York City from extinction will be out in force again on Saturday as the Minstermen tackle Swansea at Bootham Crescent.

Some £60,000 was raised by the mini-army of bucketeers at the height of the club's off-field troubles, a sum vital in salvaging City.

This weekend's collection is not nearly so crucial, with the monies raised used to offset the cost of the Supporters' Trust upcoming elections.

That process is now well underway with the voting stage of the Trust board elections up and running.

The fans' organisation's 2,000 members should receive their election voting forms and notice of the Trust's annual meeting through the post this week.

Seven candidates are standing for four places on the Trust board with every Trust member able to vote for up to four candidates.

The candidates are Mike Grant, Ian Hey, Sophie McGill, Frank Ormston, Steve Ovenden, Paul Rawnsley and Peter Rookes.

Votes must be cast by December 11 with the results announced at the Trust AGM at the Grand Opera House on Wednesday, December 17.

Details of the AGM agenda are being sent out with the voting papers.

Last year's inaugural Trust board elections saw some 65 per cent of members vote.

In a statement, the Trust said: "Unfortunately, democracy does not come cheap and even with some of the cost-cutting endeavours undertaken by many members of the Trust, the costs associated with the AGM and election process are significant.

"Whilst there will be no charge to members to enter the AGM, we hope that many members will support the fundraising initiatives on that night and there is also the opportunity for people to contribute before the event.

"York's famous fundraising 'bucketeers' will again be in action before and after the Swansea match to receive any donations, small or large, to help support the work and role of the Trust."

Updated: 11:12 Wednesday, November 26, 2003