A CAMPAIGN backed by thousands of people is urging City of York Council to block any bid to build on York City's ground until the beleaguered club finds a new home.

A protest petition, signed by more than 2,000 people, was presented to the authority's planning committee last night.

The document quotes the council's draft local plan, under which a change of use resulting in the loss of a local leisure facility, such as the Bootham Crescent ground, should only be given planning permission if either a local need for the leisure facility no longer exists, or appropriate alternative facilities exist in the area.

Campaigner Frank Ormston presented the petition, which was signed by people from all over the world as well as by those in York.

He told the committee: "You can help us ensure that any move is carried through only with the consent of the supporters and is in the best interests of the supporters and the club, not in the financial interests of past, present or future directors."

The Evening Press yesterday revealed that York Wasps Rugby League Club had joined the race to buy York City with plans to share the Bootham Crescent ground before switching both clubs to Huntington Stadium, the home of Wasps at Monks Cross.

But Mr Ormston told the committee he did not believe Huntington Stadium was suitable.

He added: "I appeal to you to remember that Bootham Crescent is more than a patch of grass in a densely populated area. It is a field of dreams for many generations of supporters.

"We can't change the past, but we can shape the future. I hope you will play your part in ensuring York City FC not only survives, but flourishes and once again becomes a part of the fabric of the city's life that every citizen can be proud of."

Councillor Dave Merrett, chairman of the committee, said members had every sympathy with the club's supporters and members and that the council had been working with the club to try to help it survive. He added that interested parties would be informed of any planning bids for the site.

Updated: 08:46 Friday, February 01, 2002