Explore every episode of the podcast Hospital Ball

In our now-annual sit-down with Matt Uggla, we reflect on a remarkable season that ended in a title triumph for York City F.C..

Matt shares his emotions from the dramatic moments at Rochdale, what the title win truly means to him, and why he believes this is only the beginning of the club’s journey back into the Football League.

We also go behind the scenes, with Matt offering insight into his role at the club—from recruitment strategy to decision-making at the top level. The conversation explores how York City plan to retain key players, build on a record-breaking campaign, and continue improving despite their success.

Interview conducted by Dan Tait. Edited and produced by James Charters.

If you enjoy these podcasts then please consider donating to our charity via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

York Hospital Radio meets John Helm, a true commentary legend whose career spans over six decades. From standing on the terraces to calling ten World Cups, John reflects on an extraordinary journey through the game.

We cover his early commentaries covering Leeds United during the Don Revie era, iconic moments across various Yorkshire football clubs, his work on FIFA tournaments, the Indian Super League, and his current employment for Lincoln City who he commentates for despite being into his 80s.

Alongside the highs, John shares his harrowing memories of the Bradford City fire and how he continues to respect those lives lost. We also dive into his philosophy behind the microphone, how he developed his distinctive style, and his respect for fellow commentators across the generations — before finishing with his famous party piece: naming every club in the English football pyramid, just as he did for a Guinness World Record in the 1980s.

Interview conducted by Dan Tait. Edited and produced by James Charters.

Kingsley James lifts the lid on York City’s promotion season, his partnership with John Askey, and the tensions that eventually led to their departure.

Here is an exclusive early release of Series 15 of York Hospital Ball featuring former York City assistant manager, Kingsley James.

Having spent the vast majority of his playing career in the lower leagues, Kingsley faced the Minstermen many times before joining York City in November 2021 as the right-hand man to John Askey. The pair quickly put their stamp on the club, transforming the team’s fortunes and ultimately leading York City back to the National League with promotion at the end of their first season in charge.

Despite a positive start to the following campaign, tensions began to grow between the management team and the club’s new ownership. Those difficulties eventually led to the departure of John Askey and, shortly afterwards, Kingsley himself.

In this interview, Kingsley reflects on the highs and lows of his time at York City, offering a fascinating insight into life behind the scenes during a memorable and turbulent period at the LNER Community Stadium.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, produced by Keith Lea, and edited by James Charters.

The episode is sponsored by Radcliffe and Son Plastering.

If you enjoy these podcasts, please consider supporting our charity:

https://www.justgiving.com/charity/yorkhospitalradio

Hospital Ball welcomes York City striker Dipo Akinyemi for the 100th episode of the podcast.

In this in-depth interview, Dipo reflects on his professional journey — from his early career at Stevenage, through a series of character-building loan spells, before finding his feet at Welling United and getting his career back on track.

A move north of the border to Ayr United followed, where a spectacular first season saw Matt Uggla break the York City transfer record to bring Dipo to the LNER Community Stadium.

Although his stay with the Minstermen lasted only two seasons, his impact was keenly felt by supporters. Here, Dipo talks candidly about his affection for York City, his relationship with the fans, and his departure from the club last year.

This special milestone episode is sponsored by long-time supporter Ol Crabtree.

If you enjoy the Hospital Ball podcast, please consider donating to our charity via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio.

Original artwork image created by Tom Poole.

Our final episode in this series on cult heroes features perhaps the ultimate York City cult hero – Gary Swann

Born in York, Gary began his footballing career at Hull City, where he rose through the ranks to become a first-team regular, achieving two promotions over six seasons. He then moved to Preston North End, adding another promotion to his career achievements, before joining York City on a free transfer in 1992.

At Bootham Crescent, Gary became an integral part of John Ward’s side and secured his place in Minstermen folklore with his vital goals in the playoffs. He later went on to play for Scarborough and enjoyed spells in Hong Kong and China before retiring from the game.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait and edited/produced by James Charters.

If you’ve enjoyed this podcast series, please consider supporting us by donating via York Hospital Radio’s JustGiving page.

In 1995, Paul Stephenson arrived at Bootham Crescent for a bargain £35,000. His dazzling skill and quick feet made an instant impact on York City supporters. Despite battling injuries in his first season, he played a key role in the club’s famous League Cup triumph over Premier League side Everton in 1996 and became a firm fan favourite during his three seasons at the club.

In this exclusive interview, Paul reflects on his years with the Minstermen and his remarkable football journey. Starting out in Newcastle United’s youth ranks alongside Paul Gascoigne, he earned England youth honours before breaking into the first team at St James’ Park and then enjoying successful spells with Millwall and Brentford. His move to York City was followed by a return to his native North East, where he closed out a career of over 500 appearances with Hartlepool United.

Paul speaks candidly about the highs and lows of professional football — from unforgettable victories to the mental and physical challenges of long injury layoffs. This is a heartfelt and insightful conversation for anyone who loves the game, hosted by Dan Tait and produced by James Charters.

If you enjoy the podcast, please consider supporting our charity at: https://www.justgiving.com/charity/yorkhospitalradio

This special mid-series bonus episode features York City FC historian and author Paul Bowser.

Paul has just released Part Three of his acclaimed trilogy, Bootham Crescent: A Second Home, and joins Hospital Ball to discuss his lifelong support of the club and the lengthy but rewarding journey of writing the books.

The third volume is a 370-page A4 hardback covering the years 1993 to 2025 — documenting the final decades at the beloved Bootham Crescent ground, as well as the first four dramatic years at the LNER Community Stadium.

📘 Order your copy of the book here:

https://www.tooab.com/2025/02/10/volume-three-of-bootham-crescent-book-trilogy/

When Jon Challinor came on as a half time sub for Kettering against York City, his only intentions were to help preserve some pride for the poppies having being 4-0 down at the time. By the end of the match Gary Mills felt he was the best player on the pitch, by the end of the week he was a York City player and by the end of the season he was a double Wembley winner. This came after three near misses with promotions to the football league. 

This podcast covers the ups and downs of a career that has included going out to America as a young pro to scoring in a World Cup final for England Seniors. 

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters. 

If you enjoy these podcasts please consider donating to https://www.justgiving.com/charity/yorkhospitalradio

From England schoolboy caps to 117 goals in professional football and an FA Cup semi-final, Gordon Staniforth’s career is the kind every young footballer dreams of.

A two-time winner of York City’s Billy Fenton Clubman of the Year award, Gordon was a shining light during a challenging era for the club. Across two spells with York City, as well as a career that brought promotions and cup runs, he’s seen the game from every angle.

In this episode, Gordon reflects on the moments that defined his journey – from being told to cut his hair to represent his country, to the thrill of walking out in an FA Cup semi-final.

Hosted by Dan Tait, edited by James Charters, and produced by Keith Lea.

If you enjoy this episode, please consider supporting our charity via York Hospital Radio’s JustGiving page.

The brand new series kicks off with cult hero Ian Blackstone — a player whose unconventional rise to professional football took him from Starbeck to Wembley in just a few short years.

Affectionately known as Blackie by fans, Ian signed for York City at the age of 25 and quickly made his mark. Thriving under manager John Ward, he became a real menace for defenders and found the net regularly, whether out wide on the left or leading the line up front.

In this episode, he reflects on his time at Bootham Crescent and shares candid insights into his journey both into and out of the professional game.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, with editing and production by James Charters.

Episode sponsored by the Nearly Departed app for iPhone.

If you enjoy the podcast, please consider supporting York Hospital Radio via: justgiving.com/charity/yorkhospitalradio

Welcome to our annual sit down with York City co-chair Matt Uggla. Speaking ahead of the 2025-26, Matt discusses the recruitment strategies used by the club, the level of interest for current players, agents fees, the barriers to long-term success with the stadium and much more.

This podcast interview was conducted and edited by Dan Tait, produced by Keith Lea.

If enjoy these podcasts please support us by:

• Donating to the charity (justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio)
• Give us a review and rating
• Subscribe to us for notifications of the new series

This is the second part of a special episode featuring a collection of live interviews hosted by Hospital Ball's Dan Tait, recorded at York City Supporters Trust events between February and April 2025. Taken from The Crux of It, our Hospital Ball spin-off, the episode includes appearances from:

• February: Tyrese Sinclair & Malachi Fagen-Walcott
• March: Billy Chadwick & Joe Felix
• April: Marvin Armstrong & Dipo Akinyemi

For full episodes featuring York City FC club ambassadors, be sure to check out the main The Crux of It podcast.

If you enjoy these interviews, please consider supporting our charity at justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio.

This special episode features a collection of live interviews hosted by Hospital Ball's Dan Tait, recorded at York City Supporters Trust events from September to December 2024. Taken from The Crux of It, our Hospital Ball spin-off, the episode includes appearances from:

September: Paddy McLaughlin & Rory Watson

October: Callum Howe, Ryan Fallowfield & Dan Batty

November: Harrison Male & Ollie Pearce

December: Cameron Morrison & Gary Elphick

For full episodes featuring York City FC club ambassadors, be sure to check out

If you enjoy these interviews, please consider supporting our charity at justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio.

When a young Mikey watched York City on the terraces of Bootham Crescent with his grandad, he would have dreamt of representing the club when he was older. That opportunity came when he was appointed assistant manager to David Webb in 2022 but took full charge of the side when Webb departed after only a few months. Trying to keep the club in the National League whilst off the field issues reared their head on a regular basis, Mikey’s time in the dugout was short but eventful. Here he reflects on his time leading the Minstermen as well as the coaching career in general.

Interview conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

Series sponsored by Nearly Departed app.

David Lloyd is without doubt a cricketing legend after a long and successful career that included captaining and winning trophies with Lancashire, scoring a test hundred for England, later coaching his county and country plus becoming everyone's favourite pundit during his 22 years with Sky sports. During those times it was well known that Bumble was a huge football fan, in particular, of his hometown club, Accrington Stanley but perhaps lesser known is that he is now (alongside wife Diana) a season ticket holder for York City. In this interview we discuss his career from those cricket highlights mentioned as well as his life as a south stander at the LNER community stadium.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

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Leave a donation to our charity via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

When Jon Champion persuaded his parents to let him skip orchestra practice to go to Bootham Crescent, even he couldn’t have predicted the chain of events that followed this seminal moment. This interview discusses the long suffering support of his hometown club but also how this all coincided with forging his successful career in broadcasting, which started with a fluent but drunken match report.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters. The episode is sponsored by the Nearly Departed App.

Our sponsors website is https://nearlydeparted.app/

Our donation page is https://justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

The last in this batch of interviews and what an interview to finish on, the legendary Lenell John-Lewis, or The Shop, to his adoring fans. From starting out at Grantham to a long and successful career in the football league and non-league, Lenny joined York City initially on loan in February 2022. With the club in need of a talisman, they certainly got it with Lenell quickly becoming a fans favourite and a knack of scoring crucial goals such as in all three play off games that season. Making the move permanent that summer he went on to score 17 goals in 22/23 before cementing his legendary status with the vital winner against Aldershot last season that was the catalyst for helping the club turn around their fortunes to retain their national league status.

At time of recording this interview he had scored five times this campaign despite being injured for the past two months and not starting a game all season.

This interview was in partnership with York City football club, being available on their YouTube channel.

Interview conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

As part of the partnership with York Hospital Radio and York City Football Club this weeks guest is Ryan Fallowfield. Ryan joined the club in the summer of 2022 after a successful spell with Harrogate Town. His two and a half years with the Minstermen have been a rollercoaster but Ryan secured the Clubman of the year last season and recently surpassed over 100 appearances for the club. Here we discuss his football career so far and how this current team compares to other sides he has played for.

This podcast interview was recorded by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

As part of a partnership with York City FC we spoke to Joe Felix about his footballing journey. From growing up in London, bouncing back from being released by QPR, working with Adam Hinshelwood at Worthing to his energetic start to life at York City. We also discuss the importance of faith and family in his life and how it has shaped him as an individual.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters. A version is also available via the York City YouTube channel and official club app.

This guest needs little introduction, York City manager Adam Hinshelwood. In this interview we discuss everything from his playing career, coaching philosophy, time at Worthing to, of course, his meteoric rise at York City from the humbling 6-1 defeat at Altrincham where the club looked odds on for a relegation to the top of the league where the club proudly sits now.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

Callum Harriott is trying to make up for lost time with York City supporters. Now in his second season with the club, Callum reflects on the challenges with injuries in the first campaign but how much he enjoys playing for manager Adam Hinshelwood and in front of the York City supporters. We also delve into his football journey before York City including international honours and how he burst onto the scene with Charlton Athletic as well as facing the likes of Manchester United in cup competitions.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

As part of a partnership with York City Football Club, we are interviewing current players and staff that will provide content for the official club app as well as on York Hospital Ball.

This episode is with the clubs Director of Football, Tony McMahon. This interviews covers Tony’s playing career including captaining Middlesbrough to the FA Youth Cup in 2004, making his first team debut at Old Trafford as well as playing in Europe. Tony’s time at York City has seen him be a coach, caretaker manager and now director of football where he is making a real impact on and off the pitch.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

The York City app is available on the App Store and subscribers will hear all of these interviews as soon as they are released.

Rick Witter is the lead singer of York band Shed Seven, who have been in the music industry for over 30 years. They have achieved 15 top 40 singles in the UK and earlier this year scored their first ever number one album, A matter of time. Here Rick discusses their entire career from the highs of charts success and appearing on Top of the pops to the battles with record labels as well as their fantastic 2024 where they have released two successful albums.

For more info on Shed Seven tour dates and where to buy their new album visit https://www.shedseven.com

If you enjoy this podcast then please consider donating to our charity via https://justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

The career trajectory of Graeme Murty was an impressive one. From being released by Middlesbrough for being too small, York City took a chance on Murty and saw him come up through the Youth team, score at Anfield for the reserves before making a significant impact in the first team, the peak of which was a goal against Everton in the 1996 league cup. Reading paid £700,000 for his services and he went on to be club captain, part of the side that won the championship with 106 points, be a regular in the premier league as well as being voted in their all time XI by supporters. This interview covers all of those highs as well as representing Scotland on the international stage and his blossoming coaching career. It, more importantly, talks about the journey to get there and the people who shaped his career.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

In 1982 Ricky Sbragia was driving from Blackpool to Rochdale having been offered a two year contract to play at Spotland but he turned the car around and somehow ended up at Bootham Crescent instead. It would turn out to be an inspired move for both Ricky and York City. A rock at the heart of the defence alongside fellow Scot John MacPhail, Ricky is fondly remembered for his part in the 101 points side of 1984 and for scoring against the mighty Liverpool in 1985. After hanging up his boots he became involved in coaching the clubs young players and played a significant role in developing some of the clubs best ever youngsters and leading them to the FA Youth Cup quarter finals.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, produced by Keith Lea and edited by James Charters.

When Chris Brass signed for York City in 2001 he was approaching his best years as a professional footballer. Installed as club captain, Chris was a real figurehead with chaos in the background at Bootham Crescent. Those leadership qualities saw him appointed as player manager at just 27 years old and after four wins from the first four games it seemed like Brass could do no wrong. The fairytale didn’t continue as his young side lost momentum, confidence and spiralled out of the football league. A few months later Chris was sacked as manager but continued playing before suffering an ACL injury that ended his career at the club. Here Chris lifts the lid on his version of that time period at the club.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

When Scott Barrow signed for York City there was one glaring omission from his football CV - promotion. He felt signing for York City represented his best chance of achieving this but when that dream was realised in the 2022 National League North play-off final it turned into a nightmare when he was stretchered off with a serious knee injury. Here Scott discusses everything in his career building up to that game and the mental battles that followed. From playing part-time with Port Talbot Town right up to helping Darlington’s great escape last season, Scott’s football journey is a real rollercoaster.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

It is just short of a year since Matt Uggla became owner of York City and we welcomed him back to the Hospital Radio studios to reflect on that time period as well as giving a real insight into the present and future of the club. Discussing everything on and off the pitch, Matt is brutally honest about the rollercoaster year whilst giving everyone, from a York City perspective, hope going forward.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited by James Charters and produced by Keith Lea. The episode was sponsored by planning prospects.

Recorded at Haxby Sports Bar back in January, this live event featured former player and BBC radio pundit Iain Dunn and club legend David McGurk. Iain speaks about growing up as a supporter, being a ball boy to fulfilling a childhood dream of playing at Bootham Crescent whilst David recalls many stories from his ten years representing the Minstermen.

Main interview conducted by Dan Tait with audience contributions. This event was recorded live by Keith Lea.

Manny Duku has had an interesting career as a professional footballer. From being disillusioned at things not working out in Holland he took a chance in England and carved out a reputation as a goal scorer in the lower divisions. He signed for York City in 2022 and became a cult hero with supporters due to his passionate performances and key goals. Here Manny discusses his time at the LNER as well as his stints in Scotland and Gibraltar.

This episode was edited and produced by James Charters and the interview conducted by Dan Tait.

This episode is the last in the series. If you enjoy the podcast please consider donating to the charity via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

The term ‘fan favourite’ couldn’t be more fitting when discussing Pete Jameson’s time at York City. Joining from Blyth Spartans in 2019 Pete was the established number one throughout his three seasons at the club, the final of which, saw him win player of the year as the team clinched promotion via the playoffs. This interview covers all his time playing for the Minstermen as well as his spells with Darlington, Harrogate and Hartlepool United.

Dan Tait conducted the interview which was edited and produced by James Charters.

If you enjoy the podcast then please consider donating to our charity via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

Very few footballers are able to say that they made their debut in the professional game aged just 15 years old but Ashley Chambers did just that when he played for Leicester City in a league cup tie. He also played for England at various youth levels but needed to leave Leicester in search of regular first team football. York City and Gary Mills provided that and the rest, as they say, is history. Ashley is cemented in York city folklore due to his massive part in the 2012 Wembley double success. Here Ashley looks back on that time at Bootham Crescent as well as his whole career in football.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

Football supporters love a player who wears their heart on their sleeve and Michael Rankine epitomised that with his all action and passionate displays for York City. Playing for the club across three separate spells Michael discusses his time at Bootham Crescent as well as his wider career representing the likes of Scunthorpe United, Aldershot Town and Hereford.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

The podcast is created for York Hospital Radio, a local charity who provide a service for patients in York Hospital. If you enjoy these podcasts please consider: -

Donating via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

Giving us a review online or leaving comments on social media.

Terry Dolan has pretty much spent his whole life in football. This interview goes right back to his playing days with the likes of Bradford Park Avenue and Huddersfield Town to covering his managerial spells with Bradford City and of course, York City. Terry’s time at Bootham Crescent was never plain sailing and he effectively served under three owners in three years. In an exclusive interview with Hospital Radio Terry recalls the highs and lows of that time period.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

If you enjoy the podcast please consider giving us a review or donation via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

From being one of Britain’s most expensive teenage footballers and playing in the first season of the Premier League to being forced to retire from the game in his late 20s, Neil Tolson packed a lot into his football career. At York City he found a manager who believed in him and a fan base that loved his committed style and goal celebrations making him a perfect guest for this podcast.

Now coaching football (soccer) out in America, Neil looks back on his time playing for the likes of Oldham Athletic, Southend United and, of course, York City.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

These podcasts are created on behalf of York Hospital Radio, a charity in its 60 year. Please consider donating via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

If there was ever a poll to decide the best value for money York City player, Derek Hood, who cost the club £2000 from Hull City would certainly be up there. Over 300 appearances covering nearly every position on the pitch, Derek was in the side that were the first to achieve over 100 points as well as facing Liverpool in the FA Cup.

Here Derek discusses his career from early beginnings as a youth player at West Brom to his love for playing at Bootham Crescent under the lights.

This episode is sponsored by the Nearly departed app. The interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

Welcome to a brand new series of York Hospital Ball, a series that goes through the decades starting with former striker Jimmy Seal covering the golden period of the 1970s where York City clinched promotion to the old Second Division. Jimmy signed from Barnsley and initially found goals hard to come by but would go on to form one of the most prolific strike partnerships in the club's history when Chris Jones joined him in attack. Here Jimmy reminisces about his time playing at Bootham Crescent as well as his famous goals against Manchester United and Arsenal.

This episode is sponsored by Nearly Departed (App). The interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

George Mallett's book 'Potter, Hopcutt and a desk in East London' predominantly covers the rise of Swedish side Ostersunds FK from the lower leagues of Sweden to their European adventure. The backdrop of the book however, is George's support of York City, and here we speak to him about his journey following both the Minster men and Ostersunds which led to him releasing a book about those adventures.

Interview conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

Welcome to an exclusive interview with the new owner of York City Football Club, Matthew Uggla. After just a week in the role, Matt gave up his time to come to the York Hospital Radio studios to discuss his plans for the club including recruitment, current priorities, challenges and what he hopes will be his legacy.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait and produced by Keith Lea.

If you enjoy the podcast please consider donating to our charity via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

When Steve Ovenden sat through 45 minutes of York City losing at Reading on a random Tuesday night, he couldn’t have imagined the half-time entertainment would have changed life as he knew it. What followed was a number of amazing opportunities as Steve donned the mask of the newly created Yorkie the lion. From representing England to coming to blows with a Halifax Town centre half as well as having a player be his best man for his wedding, Steve had a rollercoaster time as the club mascot. Here he discusses all those stories plus many more.

When avid supporter James Richardson finished University he probably didn't think his first employment would be as a low paid commercial assistant at York City. However, a short time later James would be involved in numerous aspects of the club which lead to things like making up players names in the matchday programme, discussing transfer targets with Alan Little to designing away shirts. From the highs of working at Bootham Crescent when they beat Manchester United to seeing the club sold for a pound in his office was certainly a rollercoaster.

If you enjoy these podcasts then please consider donating to our charity via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

When Gary Mills came back to York City in 2016 he needed players to represent his passion and leadership on the pitch. Sean Newton epitomised everything the manager needed. Having followed him from Wrexham, Sean soon won supporters over with his performances and quality set pieces. Although York City were relegated to the Conference North Sean's association with the football club extended to six years including three clubman of year awards and man of the match in the FA Trophy win in 2017. Sean's time at Bootham Crescent wasn't all plain sailing with rumoured fall outs and he often divided opinions with supporters but here he speaks about his version of events and love for York City Football Club.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait and was edited by James Charters.

Clayton Donaldson was already seen as a club legend due to his brilliant two year spell at the club between 2005 and 2007 so coming back at the tail end of his career could have tarnished his legacy. However, Clayton's experience (and 14 goals) proved a significant factor in the club achieving promotion from National League North and here he reflects on his contribution to John Askey's promotion winning side.

This podcast interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

Matty Blair's journey in football is one based on hard work and dedication. The son of a former European cup winner, you would be mistaken thinking Matty's path was smooth as he worked his way up through the non-league pyramid. When Blair signed for Gary Mills at York in 2011 it was an inspired move as he notched 20 goals in his debut season on route to promotion including goals in both FA Trophy and Play-off semi-finals and finals. After helping to keep York in the football league Matty went on to represent a number of clubs including Fleetwood Town, Doncaster Rovers and Cheltenham Town before retiring last year.

This podcast interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

When John Ward left York City in March 1993, it was a crucial point in the season for the club in their pursuit of promotion. Appointing Alan Little, John Ward's assistant, a man with no previous managerial experience was a huge call. However, it 100% proved to be the right decision. From his first game in charge; a 5-1 win at Barnet, to winning promotion at Wembley to beating the likes of Manchester United and Everton, Alan is rightly remembered as one of the clubs greatest ever managers. Here he discusses all of those special moments during his time coaching and managing at Bootham Crescent.

This podcast interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

When Andy Leaning was advised to take on an apprenticeship in a trade rather than as a footballer he thought his chance of playing for York City had gone. However, it turned out to be a blessing as Andy built up skills and experience playing local mens football which led to a chance reserve team game at Bootham Crescent. The rest, as they say, is history as Andy quickly established himself as first choice and in his first full season twice faced the might of Liverpool in the FA Cup. Andy's career saw him move onto the likes of Sheffield United and Bristol City before becoming a successful goalkeeping coach.

This podcast interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited by James Charters and produced by Keith Lea.

When Denis Smith arrived on loan at York City in 1982 he was shocked at the lack of professionalism and poor standards he had become accustomed to during his stellar career at Stoke City. Accepting the position as player manager of the club Denis knew the size of the challenge but by the time he left for Sunderland in 1987 he had given York City supporters lasting memories that included being the first team to ever reach over 100 points, beating Arsenal in the FA Cup as well as memorable draws against Liverpool. Denis is one of York City's best ever managers and here he speaks exclusively about his time at Bootham Crescent.

This interview is conducted by Dan Tait, produced by Keith Lea and edited by James Charters. If you enjoy these podcasts please consider donating via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

Writer Daniel Gray has just released his excellent book 'The silence of the stands' which details his journey following football during the pandemic. Daniel grew up in York and speaks to us about his childhood following the Minstermen, his infamous purchase of one of turnstiles from Bootham Crescent before discussing his latest football book.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

Many York City supporters credit John Ward as being one of the finest managers the club has ever had. That is a huge accolade but even more impressive considering he was only in charge for a relative short period and never a full season. However, after a lean end to the 1980s it was John Ward who laid the foundations for success in the 1990s transforming a team of perennial underachievers into promotion candidates helped hugely by the signing of Paul Barnes. Here John speaks about his time at Bootham Crescent including the difficulties in signing Paul but also his wider career in football; playing, managing and coaching.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

Please leave us a review on apple, rate our show on Spotify and consider donating to our charity via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio

Alastair Smith is living the dream, a long time supporter of York City past who is now playing a significant role in its future as the new chief executive. Here Alastair speaks about how his love and passion for the club started before moving onto the whirlwind appointment onto the York City board and then up to the present with what it is like to be on the clubs board of directors.

This interview was conducted by Dan Tait, edited and produced by James Charters.

Please consider donating to our charity via justgiving.com/yorkhospitalradio