THE potential strike by football mascots is gathering momentum, just seven days after the move was revealed by the Evening Press.

York City's Yorkie The Lion became the most sought after man in football yesterday - putting even David Beckham in the shade - as the media men from television, radio and newspaper fell over themselves to talk to the beast on a mission.

Yorkie has become the 'mane' force behind the Professional Mascot Association and the National Union of Mascots, as football's figures of fun try to earn share of the television money and have a say in the Mascot Code of Conduct.

The cameras of Sky Sports was at Bootham Crescent yesterday following the announcement, the mascots could make their first strides towards action.

A number of the top dogs in the mascot game are due at Boundary Park to play a friendly five-a-side match before the festive period - and an announcement of a picket is due soon after.

The support for Yorkie's cause - he wants mascots to receive money to help with injuries and retraining - was there for all to see yesterday with even Minstermen chief Terry Dolan voicing his support.

"It was be a tragedy for the game if they were to go on strike. They are good for football clubs," he said.

Those entering and leaving the club yesterday - including chairman Douglas Craig and even the local dustbin men - were met by his roar.

Yorkie's moment of fame was soon on Sky Sports News last night and was scheduled to appear on Sky Sports' Soccer AM programme this morning.

Updated: 10:19 Saturday, December 08, 2001