THE centre of York was engulfed in a sea of red and white as fans took to the streets to celebrate the rescue of their football club.

More than 200 York City supporters voiced their relief in a march from High Petergate to Bootham Crescent.

They were celebrating York City Supporters' Trust's takeover of the club, saving it from liquidation.

A colourful day was rounded off in fine-style with a 2-0 win for the Minstermen against Southend - a result which pushed City to third place in the Third Division table.

Matthew Laycock, 15, who went on the march with his friends, said: "It was a really good atmosphere.

"People had banners and flags and were singing songs before and at the ground. It was a great day."

Updated: 11:43 Monday, March 31, 2003