Cleveland Police confirm investigation into possible “financial irregularities” at Hartlepool United

Cleveland Police have confirmed they are looking into possible “financial irregularities” at National League side Hartlepool United after they were contacted by the club.
No arrests have been made and Pools say no one currently at the club is under investigation.
A Cleveland Police spokeswoman said: “Inquiries are on-going into possible financial irregularities at Hartlepool Football Club.”
Hartlepool have also confirmed an outstanding HMRC tax bill of £48,000 is to be settled by funds raised from an online crowdfunding campaign.
A statement issued by Hartlepool read: “Following various items in the press and elsewhere regarding the ongoing challenges at Hartlepool United, we would like to make the following statement.
“It has been reported that the Club is in receipt of a winding-up order from HMRC. To date, this is not the case. However, the Club has been in contact with HMRC and have confirmed the liability due will be settled in full directly by the Just Giving fundraisers on Thursday morning.
“This has been made possible by the fantastic fund-raising efforts of Hartlepool United fans and the wider football family.
“In addition, there is a report circulating regarding a police investigation in to financial irregularities at the Club.
“It should be clear that whilst the Club cannot discuss details of the investigation, the reality is that the police are responding to a request by the Club and nobody currently involved at Hartlepool United is the subject of any investigation.
“Meanwhile our efforts are fully focused on exploring various expressions of interest which, whilst the financial challenges in the short term are obvious, must be subject to a process which protects Hartlepool United for the long term.”