YORK City communications director Sophie McGill has expressed her delight after season-ticket sales hit the 800 mark today.

A drop in sales had been anticipated following last season's disappointing first campaign in the Conference.

The Minstermen finished 17th in the final table but early indications suggest that most supporters intend to remain loyal to the club.

In fact, there are hopes that the number of season tickets sold could even match or better last summer's tally of 923 when the levels of expectation for a successful campaign were arguably higher.

McGill said: "We are delighted with the high level of season ticket sales and would like to thank those supporters who have made the commitment this season. I definitely believe the fact that the club is now owned by the fans has helped to galvanise support even though on-pitch performances were disappointing last season."

The current sales figures include 64 tickets for under-12 fans, who have taken advantage of the new £29 offer.

McGill added: "Billy McEwan's continuation as manager and our new signings have also given fans a sense of optimism and hope. We will continue to push season ticket sales and especially promote our £29 season ticket for under 12s throughout the season."

City have switched their home match with Woking to Friday, August 26 to avoid a clash with the Timeform Charity Day meeting, which will be held at York Racecourse the following day.

Released City defender Sean Davies is on trial at Conference rivals Cambridge United.

Davies, 20, has joined cash-strapped Cambridge, who are currently in administration, for pre-season training and will be given his chance to impress caretaker boss Rob Newman during friendlies this month.

The Middlesbrough-born centre-half made most of his 19 appearances for City last season at left-back and was not offered an extension to his first-year professional contract at KitKat Crescent in April.

He played two games under Billy McEwan - the last being the 1-0 midweek victory at Exeter City in February.

Updated: 10:58 Thursday, July 07, 2005