I READ Stephen Dalby's letter (Evening Press, Wednesday, September 8), regarding Gerry Harrison's position at York City, with disbelief.

Mr Dalby states that Harrison playing unpaid for City is "naked exploitation". No it is not. It is a chance for a player to earn a contract which would otherwise have passed by.

It is a chance for City to assess the player without an additional financial burden on the club. I am sure the situation is a one-off and won't become the norm.

Gerry Harrison is an experienced professional, who will know his own mind, and not a young player trying to make it into professional football.

Mr Dalby also states that "the sooner they (City) start conducting their business with some level of decency the better". An incredible statement.

Decency, integrity and financial awareness underpin the whole club since passing into Trust ownership last year.

The current board have always exercised these values, and I'm sure will continue to do so.

Let's all continue to give the club our full support, and not get sidelined by minor events such as this.

Dave Lilley,

Rawcliffe Lane,

York

Updated: 10:33 Saturday, September 11, 2004