Leeds United manager David O'Leary and striker Alan Smith have got personal in their support of the York City Supporters' Trust.

United chief O'Leary has sent a hand-written message of support to the fans' body and donated a Leeds shirt signed by all the players which will be donated at an upcoming auction.

England international Smith has gone even further, dipping into his own pocket to make an undisclosed cash donation to the trust.

Yorkshire-born Smith heard about the Minstermen's plight from team-mate David Batty, who learned of City's plight following a recent visit to York, and was eager to help out.

"It is a fantastic gesture from both David O'Leary and Alan Smith," said Kirsten Gillies of the steering committee of the Trust. "It is great to see such a big club as Leeds United not forgetting about smaller clubs like York City."

The Leeds show of support for the Trust is just one of many from clubs and players across the country.

Notts County players have also clubbed together to make a cash donation out of their own pockets to the Trust.

Former City and Rowntree Mackintosh striker Neil Grayson has donated a signed Cheltenham shirt while Ipswich and Leicester football clubs have done likewise. Liverpool and Celtic have also agree to send autographed footballs.

A full list of all the items up for auction are due to be published soon.

Updated: 11:13 Saturday, March 16, 2002