Keighley hit back at ‘incorrect’ reports
Keighley have issued an official statement suggesting that reports over non-payment of wages to players and staff over the last three months are untrue.
Former player Ritchie Hawkyard has claimed that players and staff haven’t been paid by the Cougars for nearly three months.
The Rugby Football League have stepped in and are carrying out an investigation at Cougar Park after becoming concerned about the current situation.
Keighley have released an official statement, it read: “We feel it is appropriate to release a statement regarding the situation currently at Keighley Cougars.
“There have been reports given regarding the non-payment of wages over the last few months, however this information is incorrect reporting.
“The players have received payments as detailed since the club has been in the hands of the new owners. (There was) a payment in August, two payments in September and a payment in October.
“This means the players are owed one month’s salary which is due to be paid at the end of November together with the bonuses which is in line with their RFL contracts.
“Please note this is all documented in our accounts and bank statements.
“The coaching staff have hereditary debt with the Cougars and meetings have taken place with each person to implement a proposed payment schedule.
“The payment plans will be executed and cleared by the end of 2018.
“As a club we are moving forward. Steve Gill is working tirelessly with the RFL to bring the club out of special measures however the club was already in special measures at the time the new ownership took place.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the hereditary creditors who have stuck by the Cougars through this difficult time and it is envisaged that all the creditors will be cleared by the end of 2018 , enabling Cougars to move forward into the new season
“Whilst formally giving thanks, it is very important to issue a massive thank you to all the staff and volunteers for all the hard work, time and input they have given together with the in wavering support they have provided during this difficult time at the club
“We feel the meeting due to take place tonight will be unproductive at this time as we need to move the current situation forward and to put the business on a sustainable path. The meeting will be re arranged at a more appropriate time
“It is vital that the formulated business plan continues to make the club totally sustainable and build foundations both for the present day and for the future of the Keighley Cougars club.”