INLAND Revenue stalwart Steve Kimberley is closing in fast on his 700th 'official' appearance for the club.

But unfortunately for Kimberley, he will not be able to pass the milestone in time for the club's 30th anniversary celebrations on Saturday as the season comes to the end the following day.

Kimberley has been at the club since its very first days and is now at the forefront of running the side.

Despite now being 50 and involved more with the off-field running of the John Smith's York and District Sunday League division five club - he is the club's manager, secretary and treasurer - Kimberley stills pulls on his boots when required.

So far he has racked up a total of 694 since records were kept and this is while also organising kit, marking the lines, collecting subs and playing a vital role in the general running of the club.

"I've probably played more than that, but we only kept records from about 1973/74," he said. "We used to play friendly matches on a Sunday afternoon against over companies and pub sides, but we kept getting kicked up in the air because the games were in the afternoon and players were going to the pub first.

"When we started the team, we were playing just for fun and it has grown from there, with me as part of it."

Kimberley, who has played most of his career at centre-half, although has been forced into other positions over the years, has now left the playing to younger members of the side.

"I'm just into the running of the club now," he added. "We've quite a young side so I only play when I need to. I've played just five times this season."

It is players like Kimberley, who has picked up the club-man of the year title on several occasions, that have ensured Revenue will celebrate their 30th anniversary this season.

All past and present players and officials are welcome the 30th anniversary reunion on March 16 with the celebration to be held at the Civil Service Club at 7.15pm. Tickets are £4 and include a buffet.

The club follow up the evening festivities with a friendly match the following day between the past and present players.

For more information ring Steve Kimberley on (01904) 645598.

Updated: 11:30 Wednesday, March 13, 2002