Another sponsor bites the dust

Last updated : 09 July 2008 By Dave Moore

Another of Athletic's major sponsors have experienced financial difficulties and have entered into voluntary administration. The Horners Group, one of the club's long-standing sponsors, have now called in administrators.

Just two weeks ago the Latics main sponsor, Hillstone Developments Limited, also went into administration just as they were about to enter the last season of a three-year agreement with the club. The combined loss of sponsorship will have a big impact on the finances of the club.

With increasing operating costs of fuel, electricity, gas and general maintenance, the effect is substantial. The club held firm the prices of season tickets and will now need to look at other ways of bringing in revenue to balance the books.