RUGBY League fanatic George Craven has become the oldest supporter to sign up for the York Rugby League '1000 Club' at the age of 82.

For the past 52 years, Craven, from Elvington, has been a devoted supporter of the club, having become hooked after walking out on York City FC.

And despite spending time watching the likes of London Broncos, Castleford Tigers and Leeds Rhinos, Craven is keen to see York retain its own rugby league traditions.

"I've been watching York Rugby League from the age of 30," Craven said. "I got sick of watching York City and just got out at half-time during one of their games and decided to watch the rugby league club instead.

"I hope the club does survive, although I'm starting to get a little worried now."

With more than a half-century of memories - including his own personal highlight of the York v Wigan Challenge Cup semi-final at Elland Road (see page 37) - Craven hopes to have many more with the club.

He added: "I will still got to watch rugby league, Castleford and Leeds are quiet close, but I'd rather York survived."

However, York need to reach a target of £75,000 by the end of the month - a target they are still some way off with only 14 days to go.

The long-term aim for the club is to reach £250,000 to give them a sound footing on which to mount a serious bid for honours.

For the sum of £250 a year - fans can pay by standing order of less than £5 per week - and may get free admission to games for members and a child, match-day benefits, including cut-price drinks at the stadium bar, and many city-wide discounts. Fans who purchase the membership package are also set to have their names imprinted into next season's strip.

Pensioners can become members for the reduced price of £200, while groups of ten or more can also glean a big discount if they sign up before August 24.

To apply for membership simply send cash or cheques payable to Hague and Dixon (York RLFC) to Bank House, 1 The Square, Stamford Bridge, York, YO41 1AG. If you would like to pay by standing order they should be made out to Hague and Dixon (York RLFC), account number 70430021, sort code 209956, at Barclay's Bank, Parliament Street, York.

There will be a fund-raising meeting at Huntington Stadium on Monday at 7pm. All welcome.

Updated: 10:43 Saturday, August 17, 2002