York City's proposals for Huntington Stadium have met with a mixed reception from football and rugby fans alike.

The concept of building two new stands and removing the athletics track has grabbed the public's attention, as the Evening Press found when we went to the York City Knights top-of-the-table clash with Keighley Cougars yesterday.

"City aren't justifying their demands," said Laurie Dolan, 77.

"Last season at some games they only got a few hundred through the gates, and that doesn't need big new stands.

"They have got to get their fingers out and do something to show they deserve all this before they go ahead."

City fan Alex Mallham, 21, agreed.

"It was all just City calling all the shots. I support both teams, and want the best for City, but they should be doing it together."

"It is a shame that the athletics track has been threatened by the plans," said Dorothy Turpin, 70.

"Some of the big stadiums around the world have tracks round the pitch, and they manage to get a good atmosphere."

Mick Storey, 41, said: "I think they should all be more sympathetic to the athletics club, who are coming off the worst, and there definitely needs to be more help from the council."

But most people felt that while the plans might not be perfect, co-operation between the clubs was definitely the way forward.

"There has got to be co-operation, and as long as the rugby club are involved in everything, like the club shop and the bar, I think it will work," said Jo Welburn, 34.

"I think we could all live together quite happily, with a little bit of give and take, and it is the best way forward for both teams," said Dorothy Turpin.

"I would definitely welcome the plans. It is the best, the only way, the clubs can survive in York," said Tony Fraser, 55.

Chairman of York City, Steve Beck, said the club had a lot more than a few hundred through the gates with an average attendance last season of 4,100.

He said: "We are in discussion with the athletics club and have been for a number of weeks and we will continue to work with them.

"What we are trying to achieve is a stadium for the City of York to be used by the football and rugby club. We are working with all parties.

"We want to make sure the stadium we move to is acceptable and we want to improve the stadium for the long-term future of professional sport in York."

Updated: 13:55 Monday, July 14, 2003