Accrington Stanley FC could be forced to look for a new sponsor.

Creditors of current Reds sponsor Bridge Computer Systems are due to meet next week to decide whether it should continue trading.

The firm went into administration just before Christmas.

Accountants are confident that the firm has a bright future if creditors agree to a restructuring of its debts.

But whatever the outcome of the meeting, Accrington Stanley chairman Eric Whalley conceded the firm may have to look elsewhere for a main sponsor because of Bridge's difficulties.

The computer firm struck a three-year deal with the UniBond Division One club at the start of this season.

"The sponsorship came just at the right time for us and if it is not going to continue for the rest of its term then obviously we will have to look elsewhere," said Mr Whalley.

"It would be a serious situation for us because the sponsorship is a large part of the club's income and it is a situation we would want to sort out as soon as possible."

Administrators were appointed to Bridge Computer Systems Ltd of Burnley to protect it from creditors on December 22.

Creditors of the firm, which employs about 20 people, have been told the cash crisis has been partly caused by the higher than expected costs of the firm's move from Nelson to a new building on the Network 65 business park in Burnley.

The administration order effectively gives the firm breathing space and time to put together proposals to repay creditors.

Bridge, which specialises in installing computer systems and is an internet service provider, is still trading.

A creditors' meeting is due to be held on January 13 in Manchester when those owed money will be asked to vote on a Creditors' Voluntary Arrangement.

Under a CVA, a company continues to trade and pay off creditors at an agreed rate. It is an alternative to a company going into liquidation.

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