York City supporters spoke of their shock today to news that the club has been put up for sale.

Val Jefferson, who runs the paper shop behind the ground with her husband Colin, said she was "very surprised".

"We hadn't heard any rumours from fans coming in the shop," she said.

"The decision to sell has amazed everybody."

Lifelong City supporter Richard Townend, 23, who lives off Tadcaster Road, hands out City lottery cards on match days.

"I think it's the best news I've heard about City for ages. I'm cautiously optimistic that a money man will come and buy out the club. From the fans' point of view boycotting games is not the answer," he said.

Alex Bedingham, 18, who dresses up as City mascot Yorkie on match days, was at the ground today to buy a shirt for a family member for Christmas.

"I'm completely shocked," he said. "There is a sense of disbelief. We are all keeping our fingers crossed that someone will bail us out at the end of the season."

Fred Foster, who is secretary of York Burton Lane Working Men's Club which is opposite the ground, said: "I don't think it will be the end of York City. I'm not really surprised by what's happened. The club just needs a big boost."

Bill Botterill, whose house backs on to the ground, told the Evening Press: "The sooner it shuts the better. It's impossible to park round here on match days."

Paul Waddington, landlord of popular City fans' haunt The Bootham Tavern, said he was shocked by the state of the club.

"I'm desperately worried about the future - I can't see anyone wanting to come and buy it," he said.