GARY THORNTON has been axed as York City Knights boss, The Press can reveal.

Thornton has paid the price for failing to get the club promoted back up to the Championship – even though they finished top of Championship One.

Thornton’s men lost to both Oldham and Hunslet in the promotion play-offs, with those two sides set to meet in Sunday’s Grand Final at Headingley.

His two-year contract runs out next month and he will not be offered a new deal.

Speculation is rife that James Ford, Thornton’s assistant who has now retired as a player, is to take the helm, with confirmation expected soon.

Thornton’s last task as Knights boss is to attend the Championships awards dinner tomorrow night, where he is shortlisted as Championship One Coach of the Year.

More to follow.