McCormack quits uncertain Thunder

McCormack's five-month reign at Thunder was a successful one

Gateshead Thunder coach Steve McCormack has resigned amid doubts over the future of the club.

Thunder directors Steven and Sarah Garside are starting proceedings to wind up the club's holding company.

McCormack took over in May and signed a three-year deal in August before leading them to Championship survival.

Scotland boss McCormack said: "I have been through a similar situation a few years ago with Widnes and I feel that I have to do what is best for my family."

The move to wind up holding company Gateshead & Newcastle Rugby Limited could see Gateshead have to start again under a new guise and they are holding negotiations with the Rugby Football League in a bid to secure their future.

McCormack added: "To be involved in the club's great escape at the end of last season was tremendous and everybody connected with the club deserves immense credit.

2010 might not be the season we were preparing for but we will be on the starting line, I am confident

Chief executive Rod Findlay

"Gateshead is a great club with fantastic supporters and I hope Friday's meeting at the RFL is a positive one."

Steven Garside explained to the club website his reasons for asking the holding company to be wound up.

"It appeared that I - as only a 20% minority shareholder - was expected to meet all of the club's funding needs, whilst the major shareholder could avoid any funding commitments. That was not acceptable to me," he said.

Chief executive Rod Findlay, who is currently in talks with the RFL over the future of the Thunder, said: "I'd like to thank the Garsides for the support they have shown for four or five years.

"I am sure they will always be welcome at Thunder. You have to have sympathy for the position he has found himself in - a minority shareholder but sole investor.

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Following Doncaster entering administration this summer, this surely is not how the RFL envisaged their new Championship going

Emlyn Begley - BBC Sport

"However, Thunder has faced many challenges over its 10-year history and I am sure Thunder will come through this - perhaps a little battered and a little bruised but ready for the next challenge.

"My role now is to secure Thunder's future and to preserve as many jobs as possible.

"I was really touched by one player e-mailing me to say that Thunder was his club and he wanted to play for us at whatever level. I won't name him to save his blushes but that is a perfect example of the loyalty this club enjoys.

"2010 might not be the season we were preparing for but we will be on the starting line, I am confident."