York City fans will march to their threatened ground in a massive show of solidarity before tomorrow's crunch clash against Torquay United.

Supporters are also being urged to wave £10 notes in the air during half-time at Bootham Crescent and then donate them to the new Supporters' Trust.

But defiant club chairman Douglas Craig today repeated his threat to shut the club by the end of February, and vowed that anyone who misbehaves at the ground tomorrow would be prosecuted.

Fans have been asked to assemble at the Eye of York at 1.30pm, and set off to the ground at 2pm - led by club mascots Yorkie and Shippo.

March organiser Greg Stone said he hoped more than 1,000 fans would join in.

"We want to see as many people as possible turn up, including children and families, to show the passion and pride felt by every supporter of York City, and to demonstrate that we will not let this club die.

"We'd love it if people could wear City shirts or hats and scarves, and bring banners, flags, drums, whistles and balloons to make it as memorable as possible.

"We want a really good atmosphere, and I'm sure that people will be very vocal, but our main concern is that the event is as safe as possible and passes off peacefully."

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Barlow, of York police, said they had been warned about the march and would be drafting in extra officers to police it.

He added: "There is no problem with the march as long as it remains peaceful. Any trouble would only further jeopardise the club's future."

But the likelihood of extra police being needed on Saturday has led to the early closure warning from Mr Craig.

And he also made it clear that Crescent Holdings could withdraw its offer of cash help for any new owners.

The bill for extra policing will have to be paid for by the club, and the City chairman reiterated his statement made at December's annual general meeting, when it was first announced the club was up for sale.

He said then: "If spectators behave in such a way that the finances of the club are made worse, so be it - the club will then fold at the end of February."

He also highlighted clause nine in the sales document published this week, which said BCH reserved the right to vary or amend the offers to clear the club's debts and help with any improvements at Huntington Stadium.

Mr Craig added: "Anyone who misbehaves, goes on to the pitch or does something they are not entitled to will be prosecuted." He pointed out that a minimum three-year ban from all Football League grounds could be enforced.

Ian Savage, of Foxwood, York, who is organising the tenner waving protest, said: "At half-time, anyone wishing to show their anger will be able to wave their banknote towards the directors' box in the Main Stand, while chanting their loyalty to York City."

Updated: 10:40 Friday, January 11, 2002