This update was originally printed in the match day programme for Port Vale on 24.10.2026.
Good afternoon, and welcome to the LNER Community Stadium – and a warm welcome to everyone who has made the trip from Burslem (or even LA?).
We never do it the easy way, do we? Tuesday night looked to be slipping away until Ollie Pearce popped up at the death to rescue a point against Accrington. For many, the highlight of the night was seeing Hiram Boateng back in a York City shirt for the first time since that epic day at Rochdale. Welcome back, Hiram.
Speaking of homecomings. Next May, Shed Seven play here – the biggest headline show of their career, a stone’s throw from where they went to school and first formed a band. A few tickets were still available at the time of writing, but they may well be sold out by the time you read this.
What you might not know is how far back Shed Seven’s story and the Trust’s go. In 2002, with this club fighting for its life, the band played a benefit gig at the Barbican to raise money for a newly formed Supporters’ Trust – money that helped us save York City. Two years ago, Rick Witter and Tom Gladwin came back to watch a game, and we made them honorary life members of the Trust. It was the least we could do.
So when Chasing Rainbows rings round this stadium next May, remember that the band behind it once played to help keep this club alive.
Our visitors today know that story too. In 2003, the same year York City supporters took over their club, a group of Vale fans and local businesspeople brought Port Vale out of administration. Two clubs, saved by the people who cared about them most.
That is what a Supporters’ Trust is for. And it only works when people step forward.
Last call for Trust Board nominations
Nominations close on Monday the 2nd of November – nine days from today – and this is the last home programme before they do. There are seven seats on the Board up for grabs at our AGM on Thursday the 26th of November, 7.30pm at Bishopthorpe Sports & Social Club, or online.
Any Trust member can stand. You don’t need to be an expert in anything – just someone who cares about York City and will bring a supporter’s view into the room. All it takes is the nomination form from our website, signed by two fellow members. Questions? Contact Paul Sankey at secretary@ycst.org.uk.
We are also still looking for a new Trust Secretary. No experience needed, and Paul will provide a full handover. Fancy an informal chat? Email info@ycst.org.uk.
Only members can vote at the AGM or stand for election. Membership starts at £10 a year, and we are aiming for 2,000 members by our 25th anniversary in February. Join at ycst.org.uk/join, or come and find one of us on match-day.
Enjoy the match.
Keep The Faith.
Seth Sowerby
Chair, York City Supporters’ Trust
About York City Supporters’ Trust
York City Supporters’ Trust is the fan-owned body that holds a shareholding in York City Football Club. Run by fans, for fans, we give supporters a real voice in the future of our club — on and off the pitch.
Not yet a member? Join online today at https://www.ycst.org.uk/join/ and help make our voice even stronger. Membership is open to anyone aged 16 and over, from just £10 a year.