York City heroes of yesteryear turned out in force on a night of legends at York Racecourse, writes Dave Stanford.

Players from every decade since the 1930s were present at the York City Supporters' Trust fund-raising dinner.

They included the Minstermen's oldest surviving player Jack Pinder, 90, and the club's record goalscorer Norman Wilkinson.

Wilkinson was joined by Sid Storey and Gordon Brown, all members of the 'Happy Wanderers', the City side that shocked the footballing world as they reached the FA Cup semi-finals in 1955.

Also there were players from the City squad that played in the old Second Division in the 1970s, including Chris Topping, Jimmy Seal, Chris Jones and Graeme Crawford.

They were joined by Gary Ford and Derek Hood, members of the City side that stormed to the Division Four title, surpassing 100 points, in 1984.

From more recent times, a host of players from the 1993 Wembley winning team and the conquerors of Manchester United in 1995 were also in attendance.

They included former skipper Paul Stancliffe, the club's current head of youth development, Wayne Hall, Paul Barnes, Tony Canham, Nigel Pepper, Steve Tutill, Ian Blackstone and Andy McMillan.

ITV commentator and City fan Jon Champion compered the event as the players regaled their Minstermen memories with David Kendall co-hosting and providing the comedy.

City's current crop of players received praise from a number of their predecessors for their attitude and commitment during the recent months of uncertainty.

With around 350 guests, it is estimated the dinner will have raised more than £6,000 for Trust funds. An auction of football memorabilia, including a Rivaldo signed ball, raised around £1,500.

Updated: 11:48 Thursday, March 06, 2003