YORK City Knights are refusing to budge and meet Dewsbury Rams demands for a transfer fee for Leigh Deakin.

As reported in yesterday's Evening Press, the Knights had been in talks about possibly bringing the former York Wasps leading scorer back to the Huntington Stadium.

However, chief executive Steve Ferres has said the club were unwilling to pay out for the winger, describing the current situation as a 'stalemate'.

"Leigh is interested in leaving Dewsbury because of the travelling and it is correct that we have shown an interest," said Ferres. "Unfortunately Dewsbury are asking for a transfer when we don't think they should.

"We are not prepared to meet that, so there is a stalemate at the moment."

Meanwhile, the Knights will not be punishing centre Gareth Lloyd after the 29-year-old received 240 hours community service and a £2,000 fine on Friday for hitting an off-duty policeman.

Ferres said: "We do not condone violence of any shape or form, on or off the field, but Gareth's mishap happened in June when he wasn't a York player.

"Had it been while he was a York player, then I am sure we would have viewed it differently."

YORK City Knight's opening National Two clash against Gateshead Thunder will kick-off at 6pm on Good Friday at the Huntington Stadium.

Entries rolling in

Entries for the City of York Open Bowls Tournament are now being taken. The closing date is May 19.

Any woman wanting to enter the mixed pairs but does not have a partner should contact tournament secretary Ian Farrar on 01904 632159.

For the first time in the tournament's history a juniors' event is being staged. Any youngster under the age of 18 on July 1, 2003, is eligible and there is no entry fee for this competition.

Entry forms are available by contacting Farrar on the above number.

Updated: 11:34 Tuesday, April 15, 2003