The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Bolton forced to put some staff on furlough
English League One club Bolton Wanderers have placed a number of staff on furlough, while senior management have taken a “significant pay reduction”.
Bolton were on the brink of financial collapse over the summer before a takeover, but continue to face challenges on and off the pitch, having started the new campaign with a 12-point deduction.
The hotel at Bolton’s stadium had already closed its doors to all but NHS key workers and the emergency services as the impact of the pandemic took hold across the country.
The club continue to liaise with the EFL over potential support, but in an open letter from chairman Sharon Brittan and Michael James, of
“As a sign of this commitment, all staff will receive full pay”
Football Ventures, the problems faced were clear.
“While the serious effects hinder our plans for rebuilding, we remain committed to ensuring the club and hotel rise again beyond this crisis,” the statement read. “As a sign of this commitment we have confirmed that all staff will receive their full salaries in March.”
Professional football in England will not resume until April 30 at the earliest but with the country currently in lockdown, that appears a very optimistic target.
Premier League side Newcastle last night joined Bolton in placing non-playing staff on furlough. It is understood employees were informed of the decision yesterday and those affected referred to the Government’s job retention scheme, under which furloughed staff are entitled to claim 80% of their monthly wage up to £2,500.