Harlow Town Football Club goes into administration

Harlow Town Football Club has gone into administration, prompting the town council to describe the decision as "deeply concerning".

According to court documents filed in London's insolvency court, the judge made an order appointing administrators to the club on Friday.

The court said the order was made in an application by the trustees of the Platinum Sports Management Limited Pension Scheme.

In a statement posted on social media, town council leader, Conservative Dan Swords, said the authority was working urgently "to establish the full facts".

"The news that Harlow Town FC has entered administration is deeply concerning," he said.

"My sole focus is on protecting football in [Harlow], the volunteers, and the supporters - not the company itself."

The club and its chairman have been asked for comment.

Harlow Town FC is a private limited company, but Harlow Town Council owns the freehold to the club's ground, the Harlow Arena (Barrows Farm).

The football team, who are in the Spartan South Midlands League (SSMFL), played at home on Saturday and drew 1-1 against Arlesley Town.

SSMFL's chief executive Phil Pateman said it had received details of the club going into administration on Friday.

"The SSMFL are awaiting confirmation of the immediate action required within FA Standard rules", he said.

Harlow Town was originally formed in 1879 when it was known as Harlow.

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