Hartlepool confirm that contracts have been exchanged over takeover deal

Hartlepool United’s protracted takeover finally moved a step closer this afternoon after the club confirmed that contracts had been exchanged between the buyers and owner John Blackledge, with the deal now subject to ratification by the National League and the Football Association.
The takeover is being led by local businessman and former Darlington chairman Raj Singh, who had a controversial spell as Chairman of the Quakers, putting the club into administration midway through the 2011-12 season just months after they had won the FA Trophy.
It is believed that Sky Sports Presenter and lifeline Pools fan Jeff Stelling is also part of the consortium set to take over.
The club have struggled with financial troubles throughout the season and had to rely on a short term loan from Hartlepool Borough Council to help cover March’s wage bill.
Singh had been present at Victoria Park for Hartlepool’s last three home games prior to today’s match against Solihull Moors.
Pools also announced that former Manager Craig Hignett will return to the club as Director of Football under the new ownership.
Hignett had an 11-month spell in charge of the club but was sacked in January last year as Hartlepool slipped towards relegation from the Football League.