PEOPLE across York reacted with stunned disbelief today following the news that City look certain to move from Bootham Crescent.

Damien Ingram, 24, of Arthur Street, York said he was "completely shocked" by the news.

"I think it's disgusting that the board has let things come to this.

"It's terrible news for the city as a whole and even worse for supporters.

"Fans have not been given enough time to raise the money themselves."

City fanatic Matt Ward, of Leeman Road, York, said: "I just don't believe it.

"It hasn't really sunk in.

"A move out of town would be terrible because part of the enjoyment on a match day is the build up in the surrounding pubs."

Geoffrey Hutchinson, 58, of Coppergate Walk, York, commented: "It's a real shame.

"The club have a proud record at Bootham Crescent - particularly in the Cup.

"It seems money talks at the end of the day.

"I don't think Huntington Stadium would be big enough."

Bob Mosey, 52, a former junior coach at New Earswick All Blacks Rugby League, said: "I think that York's rugby and football clubs should have merged years ago - this might now be the perfect opportunity.

"Unfortunately, Huntington Stadium ruined rugby in the city because there is no atmosphere. I can't see it being any different for York City if they moved there. It's a really sad day."

Leanne Thompson, from York, said: "Football holds no interest to me whatsoever and I don't really care what happens to York City."

Supporter Richard Townend, who was on his way to an exam prior to hearing the news, said: "It's like a bombshell, I won't be able to concentrate now."

Fan Jonathan Wooldridge, of Murray Street, York, said: "I think it would be a shame if we had to move to Huntington.

"The stadium suffers from a chronic lack of atmosphere as the pitch is far away from the stands because of the running track. There's is a lot of history at Bootham Crescent, I've had some great days there.

Updated: 14:25 Wednesday, January 09, 2002