IT IS not just the supporters of York City Football Club who have been left reeling by the shock announcement that the club is up for sale.

Speaking at last night's meeting, Robert Havercroft, press and membership officer of the City Supporters' Club, said the "shock and concern" was felt deeply elsewhere.

To thunderous applause, Havercroft said: "Let's not forget those who are employed by the club who are also affected by the uncertainty."

Among those employers in the Tempest Anderson Hall were James Richardson, the club's communications manager, Peter Salter, who has recently joined City as commercial manager, physio Jeff Miller, players Chris Brass and Nick Richardson and first team coach Adie Shaw.

Dinah Smith, who works in the club shop and Trish Westland, secretary to Keith Usher, were also among the 300 crowd.

Havercroft explained the role of the YCSC and its aims; to create interest in the community, to foster support and to assist City financially.

Formed in 1922, the Supporters' Club currently has 361 members and branches throughout the country.

It is a member of the National Federation of Football Supporters' Clubs, which represents supporters' club interest on a national level.

In the 1930s, the club helped City move from Fulfordgate to its current home at Bootham Crescent and funded the construction of the Popular Stand.

More recently, the Supporters' Club organised a number of fundraising initiatives in aid of the "Roof the Shippo" appeal.

Currently, the club contributes around £1,500 to City funds by sponsoring Matt Hocking, a match ball, at least one game a season and the floodlights at Bootham Crescent.

Updated: 09:29 Tuesday, January 08, 2002