Widnes unable to pay employees

Widnes Vikings will not have the funds to pay their employees today. 

The Championship side had expected to have new owners in place, but a key member of the consortium pulled out at the eleventh hour. 

Players were made aware of the mishap, with the club intending to hold a meeting with the playing staff, over the next few days. 

The clubs directors had excluded £370,000 in loans to improve the clubs financial situation. But will have to go to the drawing board with this the latatest setback.

Vikings in a club statement, suggest the need for the monetary issue to be resolved in the next few days.

Vikings club official said, “It had appeared likely that a consortium of investors would take ownership of the club today, providing the necessary investment to secure the club’s future stability. However, at a late stage, a  key member of this consortium have withdrawn from this process. As a result, the club has, as yet, failed to secure the necessary investment and is unable to make its payroll commitments for all employees tomorrow.

“Efforts to secure investment remain ongoing and we will continue to pursue all available avenues. The club continues to invite other expressions of interest from individuals or groups that may wish to support Widnes Vikings at this time.

“The club is taking advice in response to this matter. Widnes Vikings continue to trade and, at this stage, our scheduled fixture against Sheffield Eagles will be unaffected by these challenges.

“It goes without saying that everyone associated with Widnes Vikings are incredibly grateful for the ongoing backing of our supporters and partners at this difficult time.”