YORK City Knights have announced another shirt sponsorship deal, with Copmanthorpe-based firm Collier Plant Hire the latest party to come on board.

With Phoenix Software already unveiled as the club's main shirt sponsor, Collier's name will be emblazoned on the breast pocket of the Knights' new strip.

The Knights are also hoping to announce another shirt sponsor in the coming weeks, with the club's new strip to be unveiled once its design has been completed with the names of all the shirt sponsors. That is expected to be in early December.

Collier Plant Hire boss Richard Collier has been a long-time supporter of York rugby league. His firm sponsored players and the Evening Press player of the year awards last season, and in the past he has sponsored York Wasps in various capacities.

Knights chief executive Steve Ferres said: "Collier Plant Hire has come on board as an associate sponsor. Richard is a fantastic bloke, he's a gentleman and has always been a York supporter. He's truly excited about having a vibrant club in the city."

Meanwhile, Knights winger cum second-row Leigh Deakin has joined National League Two rivals Hunslet Hawks.

The veteran try-scorer, 30, returned for a fourth spell at Huntington Stadium in April and scored two tries in 11 appearances last season. A product of Civil Service and then Heworth ARLC, he has also played professionally for Leeds, Hull and Dewsbury. He first joined York, then the Wasps, in 1993 and in his four stints with his home-town club scored 74 tries in 117 games.

Updated: 11:17 Thursday, November 20, 2003