Workington Reds players take pay cut to help cash-strapped club

By John Walsh

Last updated 13:57, Thursday, 09 October 2008

Workington Reds players are ready to take a pay cut to help the club through a tough financial period.

Workington Reds players

Manager Darren Edmondson, and his assistant Viv Busby, are included in the cuts which follow an early exit from the FA Cup and the non-payment of £10,000 compensation from Newcastle Blue Star.

And while the players are responding to the situation, which is not helped by the national financial crisis, the Workington supporters are also rallying round the club.

Volunteers are being sought to donate £10 a month to a Reds Fighting Fund and the initial response has been very encouraging.

Today manager Edmondson said: “I told the players last night and the response has been superb. They are a closely knit group at Workington and take the view that we are all in this together – directors, fans, staff and players.

“I remember being part of a very good dressing room at Carlisle United, but I honestly feel this is the best group of players I have been associated in terms of spirit and togetherness.

“I did wonder how everyone would react but I needn’t have. They took it very well and understand the situation.”

Last season Reds picked-up £18,750 from their run in the FA Cup, but last week they were knocked-out of the lucrative competition at the first hurdle.

They are also going to have to sue Newcastle Blue Star for the £10,000 which is owed them in compensation for former manager Tommy Cassidy.

Chairman Humphrey Dobie has stressed that while the directors are looking at all aspects of finance at the club, there are no major financial worries and the club remains in the black.

Director Alec Graham said: “We are a business like any other and we must protect it as best we can.

“We are not going to go bust and we don’t owe any money. The club is not in debt at all. Sponsorship is slightly up on last season, as is the number of season ticket sales.

“However, we must look at making savings where we can. I believe that is the sensible thing to do. It may be hard but it will ensure the survival of the club.

“The club is looking at all areas of the budget to save money where it’s possible. Darren will be looking at the area of his budget and it is down to him to decide what is best in that area.

“It does not necessarily mean losing players.”