YORK City are to entertain North Yorkshire rivals Scarborough next month - the first time the two sides have clashed at Bootham Crescent since 1998.

The match will take place on Saturday, July 26, and forms part of the Minstermen's pre-season plans, with Sunderland and Livingston also due to visit City in the run-up to the season's kick-off on August 9.

The game could also prove to be the last time the county's two professional clubs clash at Bootham Crescent, given that City are due to vacate their home of 70 years at the end of next season.

The fixture was arranged by new City chief Chris Brass during his first few days as manager of the club.

Brass said: "This is an important pre-season fixture for us and one we are looking forward to.

"Of all the clubs we will be meeting pre-season, Scarborough play the closest standard of football to the teams we will be facing in the Third Division. It's not only a great opportunity for the club and our fans to meet our old rivals, but the game will also prove fantastic preparation for the lads for the season ahead."

City have confirmed they will donate 40 per cent of the net gate receipts from the game to the Conference outfit.

Like City, Boro spent part of last season in administration.

City chairman Steve Beck said: "I have spoken in length to Scarborough chairman Malcolm Reynolds over the past week and the board and I have decided to contribute a significant portion of the gate receipts to the club.

"Like ourselves, Scarborough has recently emerged from administration and we feel this is a good way to support and assist our North Yorkshire neighbours."

Boro last visited Bootham Crescent five years ago in a four-team tournament which also included Airdrie and Barnsley.

The July 26 match will kick-off at 3pm.

Admission prices are £8 adults and £3 concessions for the terracing and Popular Stand and £10 and £5 for the Main Stand and Family Stand.

Tickets for the Main Stand and Family Stand will be on sale from the City ticket office the week beginning Monday, July 7.

Updated: 11:18 Friday, June 27, 2003