 Horwood joined Conference National club York City on a one-month loan in November 2005, making his debut in a 2–0 defeat against Morecambe on 26 November.He was recalled by United in January, making five appearances for York during this loan.He joined League Two team Chester City on loan later that month, making his debut in a 5–0 defeat against Carlisle United on 4 February 2006, before returning to Sheffield United in February.