IT was the perfect day.The new chairman of York City, Steve Beck, took the plaudits from a bumper crowd as Bootham Crescent ushered in a new era in the best possible style.

More than 4,300 fans turned up to witness the start of the Supporters' Trust's reign in charge of York City, and they weren't disappointed.

A 2-0 win against Southend put the Minstermen firmly in the promotion hunt and ended what had been a carnival day for the club.

From the moment the players stepped out into the 'arena', a year of torment was left behind in 90 minutes of perfect passion.

The players paid their own tributes at the end of an emotional win - applauding the City faithful as they left the pitch.

The excitement was all too much for some fans, including York City mascot Yorkie, who appeared to 'pass out' under the strain. Luckily, five-year-old mascot Laura Clubley was on hand to revive the lion.

The win capped a great day for the Supporters' Trust, said communications director Sophie McGill.

"It was a perfect, magical day. It was almost fairy tale. You couldn't have scripted it any better. For us it was very overwhelming," she said.

"When you have worked so hard for something for 15 months, with so many obstacles in the way, and then you realise the dream - it was almost surreal.

"There was an awful lot going on, but it was a memorable occasion. It is a key moment in the club's history.

"Every element of the club was represented, the trust and ex-players. It is a day that will stay in the memory."

Updated: 10:23 Monday, March 31, 2003