The future of Keighley Cougars has been secured.

It has been confirmed that the business and assets have been sold to a consortium of local businessmen who are fans of the club.

The administration deal was negotiated by business rescue, recovery and restructuring specialist, Begbies Traynor.

Cougars faced a winding up petition from HMRC for a debt of £183,000 which had built up over the last few years. When attempts by the club and the Rugby League failed to secure a repayment agreement with the Crown, and efforts to secure funding also failed, the company faced being wound up or placed in to administration.

Today Rob Sadler and Gary Lee of Begbies Traynor, were appointed joint administrators and immediately secured a sale to save the clu.The deal has secured the future of the playing squad and staff at the ground.

Joint administrator Gary Lee of Begbies Traynor, said: “This is a great outcome for the club and the town and means that this important amenity for the local community will survive as well as safeguarding the jobs of the players and staff at Cougar Park.

“Local people have rallied to save the club and this is the best possible outcome for all parties – the club will continue and the not for profit organisation has agreed to re-pay a proportion of any surplus over the next five years.”