DARLINGTON supremo George Reynolds has offered a hat-trick of helping hands to York City fans fighting to save their club from oblivion, writes Dave Stanford.

The Quakers' chairman, who is currently overseeing the finishing touches to Darlington's new £20million stadium, admits to being genuinely saddened by City's plight.

And the larger-than-life former safe-breaker is keen to offer his help to safeguard the club's future, drawing up a three-point blueprint.

Firstly, should City be forced to opt for the Huntington Stadium, Reynolds would be prepared to offer the modern main stand at Darlington's current home, Feethams, for a knock-down price.

Speaking to the Evening Press, Reynolds said the stand, complete with bars, offices, cabaret rooms, hospitality boxes was worth around £4million and he was originally looking to sell for £1m.

However, Reynolds said he would be willing to offer the stand to City supporters, plus all the fixtures and fittings, for £800,000.

He would want only £400,000 as a down-payment - which could be met by the offer of cash-help from Bootham Crescent Holdings for the refurbishment of Huntington should a Supporters' Trust take a stake in the club.

The remaining £400,000 could be repaid over two years, interest-free.

"That would help the rugby league club as well," said Reynolds.

If a move to Huntington is not possible, the Darlington chief said he would offer Feethams as a venue for City to stage their matches free of charge, until they managed to relocate to a permanent new home.

"I cannot offer it any cheaper than free, if the Football League would allow it, and its not too far away from York with good rail links," said Reynolds.

If all else fails, and City were forced to fold, Reynolds said City fans could at least get their football-fix at Darlington's new ground next season.

Reynolds said City fans would be welcomed at the 25,000-seater stadium with open arms and reduced admission.

Tickets would be sold at £5 a seat with 500 seats given up free to help with travel costs from York to Darlington.

"I would willingly have the place full of York fans if they were willing to mix with our lot," said Reynolds.

"For those who just like their football and don't mind who they support then they might as well support us rather than Leeds.

"I understand the feelings if they lose their status, but you have to look at the people who like their football.

"We will have a nice new ground with superb facilities and it will be cheaper than going to watch Leeds," he said.

Reynolds added: "The three options can be put on the shelf while the supporters can try to get themselves sorted.

"But my offers will be there and I am trying to help.

"If the supporters make no headway doing their own thing then they can come back to me.

"We are a family club and we would welcome them all if they want to join us."

Updated: 10:27 Saturday, January 26, 2002