THE cream of northern stand-up is coming to York in a show of solidarity for beleaguered York City fans.

The York Brewery at Toft Green will on Sunday host a benefit comedy night for the newly-launched City Supporters' Trust.

Featuring a number of northern mirth makers, Yorkshire-based Wearsider Mark Rough will headline the show in his 1,000th performance.

His co-headliner on the night is Anthony J Brown, runner-up in the prestigious BBC Newcomer Of The Year 2000.

They will be ably supported by a number of other comics all eager to lend their support to the Save City campaign.

Admission is £5 and all proceeds will go to the trust fighting fund. The fun starts at 8pm and will include raffles, collections and joke competitions to help swell the coffers.

Mark said: "There is one common denominator with all of the comedians performing on that night; a love of football and a desire to help all we can clubs that may be struggling.

"It struck me when I read about the problems York City fans were having that we, as performers and fans, have a responsibility to help.

"I contacted the Trust and they were more than happy for us to put together this show."

Mark, a Sunderland season ticket holder, has organised similar events for Hull City and Chesterfield in the past.

He joked: "The way things are going I may be organising something similar for my own club!"

Trust steering committee member Pete Brandon urged City and comedy fans to join in the fun. "This shows what can happen when real football fans get together for the good of the game we all love," he said.

Tickets can be bought on the night or via email on: comedyrough@tinyworld.co.uk

Updated: 11:47 Wednesday, February 06, 2002