HOW unfortunate it was that the leader of City of York Council should publicly have a dig at York Wasps at a time when the club is working overtime in an effort to rebuild.

Without wanting to make a mountain out of a molehill, it must be said that Coun Rod Hills' comments (as reported in Wednesday's Evening Press) would not particularly have helped the club as they continue their attempts to bring in sponsorship.

Furthermore, his suggestion that the Wasps would soon be in financial straits again, following the recent creditors' voluntary agreement, doesn't necessarily ring true, seeing as the club - especially via the new, unique payment structure - are making sure expenditure doesn't exceed income.

However, we are assured the council and the club are endeavouring to build bridges.

And the fact the whole matter has not degenerated into a slanging match could be seen as proof that the two parties have put their heads together.

We all know how much work the likes of former directors Russell Greenfield and John Stabler, chief executive Ann Garvey and coach Lee Crooks have put into getting the club on the right road, so let's not let a few unfortunate comments overshadow their efforts.

There is little doubting fans' devotion to the Wasps.

The latest proof comes in the form of a massive cash boost, totalling £2,300 this season alone.

York Wasps supporters' club have handed over the sponsorship money to help with kit and equipment.

They've sponsored a match for £400, sponsored the number nine shirt for £300, and given £1,600 towards training suits, four substitute suits, four ball bags, 18 water bottles and carriers, and an away kit case, items which will bear the supporters' club name.

THE Wasps Players Fund appears to be drawing money from everywhere.

Set up to boost players' wages after the CVA, the fund received another boost with the news that famed rugby league cartoon-man 'Mick' has donated his original artwork of the York Wasps' caricature for auction.

The picture is A4 in size and is the original drawing of the caricature seen on the York Wasps' forum (NFP) website.

All bids can be made on email to Louise Bramald (at louise@nfp-rugbyleague.org.uk).

FOR all those lovers out there, why not treat the special person in your life to a bit of romance rugby league style.

On February 14 - Valentine's Day, remember - Wasps will be holding a Valentine's Night Dinner at the Huntington Stadium.

This will include a three-course meal (for wining and dining) and a disco (for dancing and romancing), at £12.50 per person. Go on, surprise him/her!

Tickets can be bought from Ann or Leanne at the club.

Remember fellas, a poxy rose isn't good enough these days. And laydees, a new tie is old hat, too.

NOW for the brainboxes. The Wasps supporters' club will be running a general knowledge quiz for anyone to enter with cash prizes on offer.

Sheets, comprising about 75 questions (the exact number is not yet known), will be available at Huntington Stadium prior to tomorrow's match against Featherstone Rovers.

The question-master is club member Karen Pearson, and anyone wanting further details or a question sheet can contact her on 01904-769861.

Answers should be returned by March 10, so everyone has a chance to 'phone a friend or ask the family. Details of where to send answers will be on the question sheets.

The sheets cost £1 each, with cash prizes dependent on the numbers sold. All proceeds go to supporters' club funds.

FINALLY, it would be remiss not to mention two of the best adverts for British rugby league in recent years. Firstly, the fantastic defeat of Aussie upstarts Brisbane Broncos by St Helen's last Friday was stunning stuff.

Secondly, we all have rugby league to thank for helping to knock Manchester United out of the FA Cup.

United boss and knight of the realm Alex Ferguson apportioned some blame for their fourth round defeat by West Ham to rugby league.

His argument? Basically, rugby games 'made a mess' of the Old Trafford pitch back in November.

Need I say more?