THE York City Supporters' Trust today condemned the actions of John Batchelor and Bootham Crescent Holdings after the Evening Press revealed details of the deal that brought the motor-racing chief to power.

Sophie McGill, spokesperson for the Supporters' Trust, said: "Unfortunately, the city's football club has suffered from the actions of those charged with its ownership, who have sought to benefit themselves.

"We are appalled at the way these people have treated the supporters, local business and the media, and the community of York in general."

Yesterday, the Evening Press revealed that as part of the deal which led to his take-over of York City that Batchelor agreed the Minstermen would vacate Bootham Crescent by the end of this season.

He also agreed to former chairman Douglas Craig vetoing the appointment of directors to the football club board if he so desired.

Batchelor also agreed to allow Craig and the other directors of BCH to use the boardroom facilities at Bootham Crescent until June 30 next year, and those at any new City stadium until end of 2003-04 season.

Today the Evening Press is able to reveal further details of the take-over deal.

City are currently in administration with a deadline of Saturday, January 18, to find a buyer otherwise the club will fold.

McGill added: "Football club directors have responsibilities, not only under company law, but also a moral responsibility to guard the future of the club for future generations.

"Unfortunately, in recent years, York City has suffered at the hands of people who appear to have pursued a different route for their own benefit."

In a statement, the Trust again condemned the decision to transfer the ownership of the Bootham Crescent from the football club to BCH, and the change in financial management by the club's former directors which resulted in wages outstripping income by 180 per cent.

The Trust described as 'unpalatable' Batchelor's decision to then spend money re-branding the Minstermen as a 'soccer club'.

The Trust insisted City, who were expecting their biggest League gate for four years against at Bootham Crescent against Hull today, could survive, even with its relatively low levels of support on match days.

Updated: 11:08 Saturday, December 28, 2002