Businesses were today urged to rally around York Rugby League Club's 'do or die' effort to win promotion into the first division.

Commercial manager Lea Tichener is organising the Wasps' first sponsors' evening and issued an open invitation to local companies.

Existing and potential backers are invited to Huntington Stadium tomorrow, starting at 6.15pm, to discuss sponsorship deals being offered by the club.

The club are also offering the chance to win a sponsorship package worth £2,500 in a draw to be held on the night, which also includes a buffet, champagne and a comedian.

Said Tichener: "This is our first ever sponsors' evening. We want local companies to come and see the facilities, and the business opportunities we can offer. Players, coaches and directors will be available and it is an open invite to anybody who wants to come, if they feel they can put something into the club and get something out of the club."

Wasps' chief executive Phil Elliott has written to host of potential sponsors, outlining the club's aim of winning promotion from the second division.

Elliott last week told the Evening Press that failure to gain promotion in the forthcoming season is likely to result in the closure of the club.

He said the club spent a significant amount of money on team strengthening in the close season, which could only be recouped if attendances rise from 600 to 1,200.

Further details about the sponsors' evening are available from Tichener on 01904 634636.

The Wasps friendly with Doncaster Dragons will be played at Belle Vue, the home of Doncaster Rovers Football Club, on Thursday, kick-off 7.30pm. Admission prices are £4 for adults and £1 for concessions (including OAPs). The Dragons are poised to sign an agreement to play all their 1998 second division fixtures at Belle Vue, including matches with York on May 17 and June 28, both 3pm kick offs.

Forward Paul Harrison, who made 11 appearances for the Wasps last season, is understood to have solved his contract dispute with Batley Bulldogs and returned to Mount Pleasant.

The Evening Press has received a large number of responses to yesterday's appeal for readers to comment on the situation at York RL. We plan to print reader reactions on Monday and anyone interested in commenting can contact Stuart Martel on 01904 653051 extension 367, or write to him c/o Evening Press Sportsdesk, 76-86 Walmgate, York YO1 1YN.

Or e-mail yorknewsdesk@york.newsquest.co.uk

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