ANGRY Saints have denied reports that Leeds Rhinos are poised to sign Great Britain hooker Keiron Cunningham.

Speculation was fuelled when Lee Jackson left Headingley to return to Hull, with Leeds then conceding they were in the market for an established Super League star.

Saints are currently locked in a dispute with Halifax over the signature of Leigh hooker Mick Higham, but the Knowsley Road club are adamant that they see Higham as a deputy for Cunningham, and not as a replacement.

Said Saints' vice-chairman Malcolm Kay: "We are not surprised that Leeds are taking such a keen interest in Keiron, after all he is the best in the world. However, we are as likely to allow Cunningham -- who is contracted to Saints until 2003 -- to join Rhinos as they would be to let Iestyn Harris come to Knowsley Road!"

Meanwhile, Saints have sealed a one-year kit deal with manufacturers Exito, who will also supply Liverpool St. Helens and St Helens Town. The new home strip will on sale at Knowsley Road from Saturday, December 9.

Saints have also added another shirt sponsor to the existing one held by St Helens Glass. They are Italian power transmission company Bonfiglioli; while small business landlords Spacia will continue to provide collar sponsorship.

The club have announced a special festive package for the visit of Warrington on New Year's Day. Included in the package, costing just £35 for adult and £10 for children, are: Three-course meal (children's menu available); stand seat or view from restaurant; matchday magazine; celebrity guests and master-of-cermonies; parking; pay bar. Tables of two to ten are available, details from Andy Foreman or Kel Coslett on 758269.

Marketing executive Simon Dawson reports an ongoing demand for season tickets in the run-up to Christmas. He said: "From now until December 23 anyone buying a season ticket will be entitled to a 10 per cent discount in the superstore."

The Supporters Club will hold a Christmas cabaret and disco at Knowsley Road on Friday, December 22, from 7.30pm. Tickets, priced £12.50 including hot buffet, are obtainable from Saints.

Australian import Peter Shiels is due at Knowsley Road next week, while his fellow countryman David Fairleigh is expected in early January.

Acting safety officer Bob Singleton needs ground stewards for the forthcoming season. Applicants must be aged 18 to 55 and physically fit. For further details telephone Julie Beech on St Helens 23697.

St Helens College radio commentator Steve Manning will present part two of 'The Vollenhoven Story' on Monday, December 11, from 6 to 7pm. Wavelength is 12.87am.

South African forward Ted Brophy, who played for Saints, Blackpool Borough and Leigh between1959/61, has died in his native country aged 69. A real character, Ted saved Dick Huddart from drowning when Saints' Cumbrian second-rower was trapped in a car submerged in the Bridgewater canal at Leigh. Ted also jumped off Runcorn bridge for a bet!