YORK City Knights have reported a 20 per cent increase in season tickets compared to this time last year.

The Knights had by far the highest gates in NL2 last season and, using these season ticket sales as a guideline, that trend appears set to continue - with fans clearly not put off by the disappointment of the heartbreaking National League Two play-off final defeat.

New-found optimism at rival NL2 clubs might see their attendances increase too, but Knights fans will be keen to maintain their record of being the best-supported club in the division and one of the best-backed outside Super League.

The Knights have restructured ticket prices for next season so there is now a flat adult price of £110 all around the ground - last year it cost £100 for a standing season ticket and £120 for seated. There are various concessions, but this time there have been no early bird offers. But none of this has had an adverse affect on sales.

Knights chief executive Steve Ferres said: "We're delighted that the people of York are coming out in force to support us. We are all looking forward to an exciting and competitive season."

The Knights will also be looking to pocket a pre-season cash boost when they travel to Super League Hull FC for a friendly, which has been confirmed for Wednesday, January 26 (ko 7.30pm) at the magnificent KC Stadium.

The encounter will give fans a chance to see the new Knights and Hull signings in action, and will see the Knights keep some of the gate receipts.

Ferres said: "It will be a fantastic day out for the players and for the supporters and will give people a chance to see the new York team as well as some of their big signings such as winger Nathan Blacklock and New Zealand legend back-row Stephen Kearney."

He added: "The match has nothing to do with the moves that have seen Richard Agar and Danny Brough go there (from York) but negotiations have taken place."

Tickets are yet to go on sale.

Meanwhile, Knights boss Mick Cook's move from Leeds Rhinos has brought about a coaching reshuffle at Headingley. Cook had been a first-team assistant-coach and Academy chief.

Now, Stuart Wilkinson, who was number two to boss Tony Smith last season, will take over the Senior Academy, with John Bastion promoted to Junior Academy boss.

Spaces are still available for the Knights Supporters Club's sportsman's dinner, which will be held on Thursday at The Cottage Inn, Haxby, from 7.30pm to midnight.

The event is in aid of the Knights' Scholarship scheme and includes a three-course carvery dinner, raffle, auction and games.

The guest speaker is rugby great Alex Murphy, while the master of ceremonies is David Howes.

Tickets cost £25, dress code is smart casual.

Raffle or auction items will be gratefully accepted. For details, contact Mike Miller on 07860 105399.

Updated: 10:46 Tuesday, November 30, 2004