Bolton gain temporary escape from winding-up

A Bolton fans’ group has warned the club’s existence still hangs in the balance after they fended off a winding-up order in the High Court.

Bolton won a reprieve yesterday when a High Court hearing in London was adjourned until 3 April to allow the club to settle their debts.

The Sky Bet Championship outfit were issued with a winding-up petition by HM Revenue & Customs over an unpaid tax bill for £1.2 million.

Bolton told the hearing they were in the process of selling the club to a mystery buyer and have effectively been given a fortnight to complete the deal.

A Bolton Wanderers Supporters’ Trust (BWFCST) statement read: “The next two weeks are now crucial to the very existence of BWFC. We again urge all parties to work towards securing a more stable and sustainable future for our beloved club.”

Boltonstillfacethethreat of liquidation or administration, but the adjournment means they have avoided a 12-point deduction this season.

BWFCSTSAID: “Onepoint of note is that the two-week adjournment now takes us past the deadline of 5pm on Thursday 28 March for insolvency event-related points deductions to be applied this season.

“The BWFCST is relieved that Judge Jones has decided to adjourn the HMRC winding-up petition until 3 April. Judge Jones must have been satisfied regarding the credibility and substance of the new bidder and we find some comfort in that.”

HM Revenue & Customs were not the only creditor named on the winding-up petition.one of the creditors, sports kit manufacturer Macron, is understood to be owed nearly £200,000 by the club.

Bolton said in a statement: “We are pleased to get the adjournment today, which will allow the club to make progress with the interested party.”

Bolton have now defended a winding-up petition due to unpaid tax and VAT for a sixth time in 16 months.