Browse Sections

• Rochdale FC
• Rochdale Hornets
• Local football
• Local cricket

Reynolds hits back at Rush

28/11/2003

HORNETS chief executive Paul Reynolds has hit back at director Peter Rush, who resigned following the failure of Martin Hall's consortium.

In an unprecedented move, Reynolds sent the Observer a copy of the minutes from Saturday's board meeting when Rush and the other directors present voted unanimously to support the advice of accountancy firm PKF and auditors Gee and Robinson.

The minutes state: "The meeting discussed in detail the proposals from the Martin Hall Consortium to take over the company.

"Following the decision, and the advice from Gee and Robinson and PKF, it was unanimously agreed the board would accept the advice and inform Mr Hall's consortium accordingly."

The record goes on to state the board required the names of the consortium and a bond deposited. If the club's advisors were then satisfied, the board would resign.

The minutes continue: "The final decision on the future of the company should rest with the shareholders at a Special General Meeting." This has been set for Monday 15 Decmber.

In reply, Rush said: "On Saturday, after considering the implications of Martin Hall's proposals I told the chairman [Ray Taylor] I was backing the plans.

"He led me to believe one other member of the board was supportive with only one member, he claimed, being opposed.

"Going into Sunday evening, I believed Martin Hall's bid had the support of the chairman and at least one other board member plus myself.," added Rush.

"I remain disgusted and hurt the chairman didn't tell me Martin's offer had not been accepted, and subsequently withdrawn."