League chiefs in quit threat

RUGBY:

THE four-strong Oldham League Executive Committee members have threatened to quit their voluntary posts.

Disappointment among the quartet – Bill Herron, Phil Bradbury, Anita Halliwell and Ray Clark – surfaced when they were criticised on social media following the Standard Cup final at Oldham RUFC’s Manor Park ground in Bardsley.

The game was played on Easter Monday, with Rochdale Mayfield beating Oldham St Anne’s 36-14.

Allegations later surfaced about the use of league funds, which prompted chairman Herron to act.

He said: “The most disturbing statement is the allegation of us taking money out of the pot. This nearly caused all members to resign, an event which may still happen. I can categorically state no money is being taken out. In fact it costs every executive member money to go to meetings; there are definitely no back-handers. People should think before making such comments.”

He added that Manor Park was chosen because the final had to be played on a neutral ground and Oldham RUFC didn’t charge a fee. His statement went on to count what would have been the cost of playing the game at Roughyeds’ Whitebank ground - the preferred option of many fans.

The committee is to meet to discuss its next move.