THESE were the joyous scenes at KitKat Crescent after York City reached Wembley for only the second time in the club’s 87-year history.

When the final whistle blew, hundreds of elated fans invaded the pitch to celebrate with the Minstermen, whose 2-1 win over AFC Telford was enough to book their place in the FA Trophy final at the world-famous home of English football on May 9.

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The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, was even seen jumping up and down in the director’s box, as he joined in the celebrations.

Business and tourist leaders said today they hoped the team’s morale-lifting victory, which was watched by 3,512 people – the biggest attendance of the season – would give York a much-needed economic boost.

Susie Cawood, head of York and North Yorkshire’s Chamber of Commerce, said: “This is a great news story – exactly what we need at the moment. It will help to put York on the map and if it helps to boost the morale of the city’s workers, then that’s excellent news for business.”

Tom James, the managing director of York Pullman Bus Company, which runs the official team and supporters’ coaches for York City, said they were expecting to put on more than 50 coaches for fans travelling to Wembley.

“We are absolutely delighted,” he said. “It will be a welcome boost for business.

“The club has not enjoyed this kind of success for some time and we are really pleased to be involved.”

Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of Visit York, said the tourist board would be rooting for the club at Wembley.

She said: “This will be a fantastic boost to morale for the city and the local economy. Now more than ever we need to talk the city up and we need to celebrate every achievement.

“We’re positive the city’s hotels, restaurants and bars will get behind the team to spur them on to victory.”

Meanwhile, Dr Sentaum urged fans to get behind the club and make the journey to Wembley on May 9. City’s club patron was among the celebrating supporters, players and directors in joyous scenes after the game following a good-natured pitch invasion, even holding communications director Sophie Hicks’ high-heeled shoes at one point.

He said: “This is a great day for the city of York and its football club – a reward for the faithful and a clarion call for people to get behind the club on May 9.”


NICOLA FIFIELD spoke to some York City fans after the game

Paul Worthington, 46, landlord of The Lettered Board, Pickering, said: “It was my birthday on Friday, so this is the perfect birthday present.

“I’ve been a York City supporter for 35 years and this is one of the best days I’ve seen for the club.”


Jean Daubney, 41, a playground assistant, of Stutton, near Tadcaster, said: “My son, Jake, was a ballboy today and I’m really pleased they won.

“I should think the whole family will be going down to Wembley.”


Tony Brewer, 51, of Kirby Misperton, said: “It’s great for the club and I think they can win the final. All we need now is for them to get to safety in the league.”


Richard Thorneycroft, 56, of Fulford, York, said: “I’ve been a York City fan since I moved to York five years ago and I’m really, really pleased. I feel elated.”


Nine-year-old Thomas Josh, of Kirk Hammerton, near York, said: “It’s brilliant. I’m so happy. My dad said we might be able to go to Wembley to see the final. I am really excited.”


* Match report: York City 2, Telford United 1>>