WELL, the day is nearly upon us. After ten months without any action, York's rugby fans will at last get the chance to see the city's team take to the field.

York City Knights - as everybody must now know - take on Hull KR in their first-ever encounter at Huntington Stadium tomorrow (kick-off 3pm).

As reported by the Evening Press, a massive crowd is expected to see the momentous occasion - and the Press can today reveal that the match itself will not be the only entertainment on offer at the ground.

The pre-match party will start with two local amateur clubs, New Earswick All Blacks and York Acorn, playing an Under-9s match, while dance group "the Angels of the Knights" will also be performing.

Furthermore, award-winning entertainer Darren Payne - voted Yorkshire's number one compere for the past four years - will be the match-day presenter for the big event. His surname might ring some bells for older fans, as his brother Ian played for York in the 1970s.

On top of all that, there might well be fireworks, even before the action starts.

What with free buses being put on by First York (see the article below) and discounted drinks at the stadium bar for members, a good day all-round is assured, even before considering the rugby action.

Just imagine what the atmosphere will be like if the Knights can beat their fierce rivals.

TALKING of tomorrow's match, it seems Knight fever has gripped so far and wide that there could be a competition to see who will be travelling the furthest to witness the club's first-ever encounter.

A number of York fans will be making their way up from the south of England, while a few more will be flying over from Northern Ireland - let's hope for their sakes alone that it won't be called off.

The record, of course, goes to Kylie Krause, who has jetted over from Australia with her husband, new signing Trevor Krause - but she is disqualified.

So who should the imaginary new trophy go to?

It was to be presented to one guy who claimed on the unofficial Knights website that he was flying over from Uzbekistan, next door to Afghanistan. However, he has since found out he can't make it, apparently because he missed his helicopter to the airport. Hmm.

Anyone else who reckons they might be the winner should contact the Press sportsdesk - but proof will be required.

LEE Jackson has been granted a testimonial by former club Hull FC.

The 33-year-old former Great Britain hooker spent a total of nine seasons at the Boulevard in two stints before signing for York City Knights in December.

The Airlie Birds granted the testimonial despite controversially releasing the player at the end of the last Super League season - Jackson had verbally agreed a new deal before Hull said he was not wanted.

Jackson, who came close to a GB recall in the last year or two, decided to join the Knights after failing to agree a deal with any other Super League club.

He said of his award: "I'm very happy, it's a great honour to be given a testimonial."

A testimonial match is expected to be held soon though no arrangements have yet been made.

THE Knights are seeking volunteers to sell programmes on match days.

Anyone interested, for any number of matches, should contact club secretary Leanne Cooper on 01904 656105.

Updated: 11:51 Saturday, January 18, 2003