Telford Tigers say local people and businesses have come up with half the �20,000 needed to avoid having to withdraw from the Premier League.

The club's cash crisis was caused by the late loss of sponsor Eurologix.

"The donations in the past couple of days have demonstrated that people really care about the future of Telford Tigers," said coach Claude Dumas.

"But there is still a lot to do. We are asking anybody who can help to come forward now, before it is too late."

Three companies - Elite Maintenance Shropshire Ltd, Worcester Couriers and Stream Foods - have already contacted the Tigers to become sponsors, and the club is asking other local businesses to consider joining a growing list of team saviours.

"We have to be realistic, but we can't help but also be optimistic, given the amazing support we have received so far, especially given our handicap of trying to spread the word over a bank holiday weekend," added Dumas.

An emergency meeting at Telford ice rink, attended by around 70 people, heard Dumas and Candlin spell out the current situation and their plans if they are able to reach the �20,000 target.

Team manager Dave Candlin insists that if the Tigers do have to withdraw from this season's Premier League, the second-string English National League side will carry on the club name.