INTEREST in a crunch supporters' trust meeting was so intense that more than 120 York City fans were unable to cram into Tempest Anderson Hall in the city's Museum Gardens.

Scores queued patiently to put across their views about the club's future, but were told at 7.10pm that every available seat had been taken.

Several supporters shouted their disappointment and one even called for the meeting to be held in the grounds of the Museum Gardens.

But officials - helped by City mascot Yorkie - passed forms round outside to enable fans to register their support for the club.

Bill Rawcliffe, a City fan for 36 years, climbed on top of a wall outside the venue and sparked an impromptu debate, which later continued in nearby pub, Thomas's.

He told the Evening Press he was pleased so many people turned up, but feared many genuine fans had not been able to have their say.

Martin Jarred, Sports Editor of the Evening Press, which arranged the meeting, said: "The turnout was amazing and graphically illustrates that York City has a future.

"I'm sorry that everyone was unable to get in. The meeting was hastily arranged because time was of the essence.

"Declarations of interest in the club have to be put to the board by noon next Thursday so we had to act quickly during the holiday period and find somewhere that was available.

"The Tempest Anderson Hall was available and booked on December 31, giving the organisers only a few days to get the meeting organised."

Ian Yeowart, chairman of Chesterfield, and one of the guest speakers, said: "It is unfortunate some supporters were unable to get in, but it is better to have that than empty seats."

Another public meeting will be held at a later date after members of the Save City Committee meet for the first time and finding a larger venue for that public meeting will be on their agenda.

City of York Council arranged for the use of Tempest Anderson Hall last night free of charge.

A number of supporters returned to the venue at the end of the meeting to find out what action had been taken.

Reaction was generally positive.

Charlie Fewster, 23, who lives off Blossom Street, York, said: "There was a great atmosphere and a lot of passionate people. Everyone seems united behind saving the club."

Lifelong supporter James Abraham said: "I think it will be a bright future for the club."

But Richard Townend, of Mount Vale Drive, York, added: "I want to hear a lot more from the club itself before I'm satisfied."

Updated: 09:39 Tuesday, January 08, 2002