Bournemouth want Revenue & Customs (HMRC) to withdraw a petition for a winding-up order while they attempt to agree a financial deal that will keep them in business. Jeff Mostyn, the chairman, is attempting to find buyers to keep the Coca-Cola League One club out of administration and described yesterday’s application by HMRC as “extremely disappointing”.
The petition is due to be heard at Companies Court on March 12. Bournemouth are believed to be about £4million in debt, but Mostyn is in talks with possible buyers and investors and accused HMRC of failing to consult the club directly over ways in which they could meet their obligations.
The club have lodged a notice of intent to appoint an administrator, which protects them from creditors for ten days and could invalidate the winding-up petition, if a court agrees. The team are third from bottom of League One, albeit within a point of safety, and although entering administration would result in a ten-point deduction and probable relegation, Mostyn hopes that it will not come to that.
“We are extremely disappointed at the stance taken by the Revenue in issuing the petition without any consultation or negotiation to reach a reduced settlement,” a statement read. “Supporters can rest assured, however, that a further notice of intent to appoint an administrator was lodged and accepted by the High Court on Monday, therefore affording the necessary protection to the football club from its creditors.”
Sam Vokes, the club’s Wales Under-21 striker, turned down a move to Crewe Alexandra last week that would have secured Bournemouth a fee of about £200,000.