The long-running dispute between Cuddy and the club’s creditors was due to see the club face a further winding-up petition this week, but now there is a greater degree of optimism at The Gnoll as the Principality Premiership basement side prepares to travel to Ebbw Vale this weekend.
“It has been the toughest of times for all involved at Neath. Supporters can now look forward to a brighter future and we are optimistic the business can be turned around over the coming months both on and off the field with a minimum of fuss,” said Neath secretary, Mike Price.
“The people of Neath will recognise Mike Cuddy’s contribution to the club over the years, but there is a lot of hard work to be done to restore Neath’s pride and reputation. That will start now.
“We would like to thank the senior officers and staff of the WRU for guiding us through some difficult conversations in recent weeks and, in particular, our thanks go to WRU District ‘D’ Director Alan Jones, who has been most helpful and wise.
“With the might of the people of Neath behind us, we will rise again from what has proved to be one of the most challenging periods in the Club’s illustrious history.”
The club staved off one winding-up order at the Cardiff Civil Justice Court before Christmas over a £31,000 debt owed to Jardine Norton. The finance company had a charge on Neath Rugby Limited from last summer.
Cuddy resigned as a Neath director on 14 January shortly after being declared personally bankrupt. His wife, Simone, then assumed control as sole director.
There will be meeting of the Neath Rugby Supporters Club at The Gnoll on Tuesday night at which information will be provided about the club’s new ownership arrangements. A spokesman for the volunteer supporters group helping to run the club, Graham Jones, says they now hope to work with Jardine Norton to secure a brighter future for the club.
“Stage one has now been resolved with the Cuddy family leaving Neath Rugby. Stage two is to stabilise Neath Rugby Limited with the help of Jardine Norton and stage three would be for the company to be passed to volunteers and supporters towards the end of the year,” said Jones.
