"COME on down" is the rallying cry being issued by York City chairman John Batchelor ahead of the club's first open day for fans at Bootham Crescent on Sunday, writes Dave Stanford.

The day's free entertainment will kick-off at around 12.30pm when fans will see the first team squad being put through their paces before the players are made available for autographs and pictures.

A children's football skills challenge will be staged on the pitch, the York City Racing Team will also be in attendance, with the entertainment also including a bouncy castle and prize raffle.

Supporters will get a chance to see the behind the scenes at Bootham Crescent, with the board rooms, changing rooms and hospitality suites open for supporters to view.

The club shop and City's newly refurbished social club bar will be open with food available.

Batchelor said: "September 1 is an opportunity for everyone in the city to get down to Bootham Crescent and be part of the new York City.

"Of course, I want everyone to come along and support the team on match days, but here's another chance for people to have a fun day at the club."

The open day, supported by the Evening Press, is a first for City as it looks to improve its relationship with existing supporters and the community while also attracting new fans to the club.

The event has been organised by the club in conjunction with York City Supporters' Trust, members of whom will be on hand to talk to fans.

Representatives from the Harrogate Minstermen, a branch of the Supporters' Club, and the City Reds will also be in attendance.

Kirsten Gillies, of the Supporters' Trust welcomed the initiative.

She said: "It's great for the Supporters' Trust and the Club to be working together in this way. We hope as many fans and families as possible get down to Bootham Crescent to have a fun day."

Updated: 12:17 Thursday, August 29, 2002