Kettering Town majority shareholder Imraan Ladak is confident the club will see off the latest threat to its future.

The Poppies have until midnight tonight to meet certain criteria demanded by the Southern League or they could face expulsion from the competition.

That in turn would mean the club would fold with almost immediate effect.

However, discussions have taken place with the players owed money by Kettering and it seems agreement has been reached.

That should ensure a stay of execution from the Southern League and, according to Ladak, enable new investors to come into the club within the next week or so.

He also confirmed the people looking to put money into the club are not the same group who were interested in buying Nene Park.

“The priority for all we have been doing this week has been the deadline set by the league,” Ladak explained.

“We have just been working on that.

“I have spoken to every player and every agent and we have reached agreement with all of them.

“That should enable us to meet everything the league have asked of us.

“The slight complication is that the FA have demanded everything also needs to be signed off by the administrator.

“Sorting that out has been another hurdle but we are sure everything is in place now.

“I have to say the players have been brilliant.

“They haven’t done anything wrong. It is not their fault.

“It has been difficult to negotiate with them when they have been blameless in all this but every one of them has been fantastic.

“I think we are there now and, as per the Southern League ruling, we have done everything.”

Ladak is now confident, should the Southern League accept Kettering have satisfied ‘certain conditions placed on them’ in time for tonight’s deadline, a handover to new investors can take place.

“As I said, the priority has been sorting out the issues with the league,” he added.

“Other matters have slowed a bit because there have been lots of things to sort out.

“But we have principally agreed everything that needs to be agreed for new investors to come in.

“We are talking to two parties with the hope they can work together in a common interest for the club.

“There are a few things that still need to be worked out but we should be able everything sorted and we have November 9 as the date for completion.

“These are people who want to come into the football club but they are not the ones interested in buying the ground.

“Discussions have been good and almost everything has been agreed and is in place so it has been going very well.”

Customers who have outstanding bookings with Bowens Travel could have their tours run by another operator, administrators for the struggling firm have said.

Bowens, which is also made up of York’s Coaches, went into administration last week, with almost 400 jobs immediately lost.

Around 80 jobs have gone in Northampton, where Bowens has a main office in Sheep Street, with dozens more jobs going across the country.

The news came as shops in the Market Square and Weston Favell Shopping Centre, in Northampton, were closed.

Matt Cowlishaw, joint administrator and partner in Deloitte’s restructuring services team, today said they were workig to ensure customers are protected.

said: “The joint administrators are seeking to find another party to fulfil booked tours. Customers will be notified of the new operator fulfilling tours, including those that are scheduled to depart within the next two weeks.

“The joint administrators are working with Bonded Coach Holidays and Confederation of Passenger Transport UK to ensure that customer monies are protected.”

Rhys Oakley insists he can patch up any creaking areas in the Northampton Saints pack with the former Aviva Premiership leaders losing players to injuries and internationals.

Saints have had a disappointing run of form following their blistering start to the season, their 16-6 defeat to Saracens their second league defeat in a row following five successive wins which has seen then drop from first to fourth in the table.

And with the autumn internationals on the horizon, Saints may be forced to stage a revival without a number of their first-choice pack; captain Dylan Hartley, lock Courtney Lawes and back-row forward Tom Wood.

But Oakley, who has started twice this season, backed the depth of the Saints squad to show its worth and claims his versatility could prove vital in the upcoming games.

“We have a lot of very capable players who have started games and played big games who know they have a job to do now,” he said.

“We relish it, certainly, we’re all here playing rugby together and getting time on the field is important for us – the key is that whoever is asked to come in makes the most of it.

“I have had a little run in the team and then had a bit of an injury which saw me miss out but other lads have come in and done well which leaves us very confident as a squad.

“But that pushes me to do better and work harder and I will give my all to regain my place and take on some added responsibility.

“I can play all across the back row and I have experience of moving up to the second row – so I am pretty versatile and it wouldn’t be a problem for me to do that – I would give my all to whatever was asked of me.”

A short trip to Leicester Tigers is next up for Saints on Saturday live in front of the cameras on ESPN and they have been boosted by the release of Phil Dowson although Hartley and Lawes are out through injury.

And Dowson’s return to the club could be a timely one with 32-year-old Oakley pointing to the forward battle as defining who will come out on top in the vital local derby between fourth and fifth.

“We were obviously disappointed with how the Sarries game went and we are looking to come back with a bang now and the lads are well up for it,” he added.

“We’re expecting a tough physical tie as always with Leicester – they are quite similar to us and it will demand a lot of work from the forwards.

“But we relish that and we believe we have the best pack in the league so we’ll be fighting for every inch.”

Aviva are proud to be title sponsor of Aviva Premiership Rugby - one of the world’s leading rugby union competitions. Each season will feature 135 games, which will be watched by 1.7 million people live at the grounds and many more through our broadcast partners Sky, ITV and ESPN - visit www.premiershiprugby.com

The Conservative hopeful for the Police and Crime Commissioner election has said he is ‘angry’ at the failure of Labour to adequately check the credentials of its candidate.

Lee Barron was suspended by Labour yesterday afternoon after it emerged he was arrested 22 years ago for a minor disturbance at a town centre pub and fined £20.

Labour have now withdrawn their support for him and Mr Barron will be unable to be elected. However, as this has all come to light after the deadline for withdrawals, there remains the possibility that Lee Barron’s name could still appear on ballot papers, plunging the election into chaos.

Adam Simmonds, the Conservative candidate for the elections, which take place on November 15, said: “I feel sad for Lee and his supporters. I’m angry at how others have behaved in failing to make sure this kind of thing didn’t happen.

“High standards are important for a role which will lead significant parts of the criminal justice system. However I hope Lee finds another role in speaking up for the issues that matter to him.”

Independent candidate John Norrie said; “The whole thing is very unfortunate but the rules were known very early on. It has caused a lot of confusion and is going to rob some voters of a choice in the election.”

Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat candidate Paul Varnsverry said: “It’s bizarre, It’s surreal - he’s on the ballot paper but the legislation is quite clear. I think this is terrible news for democracy in Northamptonshire. It’s a tragic personal situation for Lee. I’m very sorry this has happened but the rules are quite specific.”

UKIP’s candidate Jim MacArthur offered his condolences to Mr Barron and praised his commitment.

He said: “Having attended a number of Hustings with Lee Barron, I was impressed by his commitment, and personality. Even though we were political opponents, I grew to like and respect him.

“I was therefore very sorry to hear that he has been barred from standing in the PCC Election because of a minor infringement of the law 20 years ago. Frankly, I think it’s quite absurd that such a thing could bar someone from standing in this election.

“In principle I do not believe the authorities should be able to decide who is and who isn’t a suitable candidate. Candidates should have been able to declare any convictions they have and let the electorate decide whether any such conviction was relevant.

“However, given that it was the rule the Government set out and he knew about it, he was obviously, to say the least, very unwise, to have allowed his name to go forward. Nevertheless, I extend to him and his family my sympathy.”

Here’s your weekly guide to events taking place across Northamptonshire over the next seven days.

TODAY

MUSIC

The Roy Hawksford Band at The Stirrup Cup, Woodlands Avenue, Barton Seagrave, 9pm.

The Platform, jam night at Charles Bradlaugh, N’pton, 9pm. 01604 233401

Live @ The BBC, George Row, N’pton, 8pm. Free. 01604 233401

THEATRE

God Of Carnage, Royal auditorium, N’pton, 2.30pm/7.45pm. 01604 624811

A Night of Dirty Dancing, Derngate auditorium, N’pton, 8pm. 01604 624811. Tickets £23

Oundle School production of Accidental Death of an Anarchist, 7.45 pm. Tickets £5 The Stahl Theatre, Oundle, 01832 273930k

Lenny Henry – Pop Life at The Castle, W’boro. 01933 270007

Blown Away, Underground Auditorium, N’pton, 11am/2pm

Wuthering Heights, Carnegie Room, Central Library, Abington St, N’pton, 7.30pm. 01604 624811

Milkshake Tour 2012 at The Deco Theatre, Abington Sq, N’pton, 3.30pm. 01604 622749

OTHER

County Market in The Chantry House, Towcester, 8.30am–noon.

Ale, cheese and cider festival at Sir Pickering Phipps, N’pton (until Nov 5).

Funzone childcare provision (& Nov 2) at Danes Camp and Lings Forum, 8.30am–5.30pm (Big Air Trampolining at Lings Forum, 10.45am–11.45am; Trilogy Dance Academy, at Lings Forum, noon–1pm; Team DC Gymnastics at Danes Camp, 2pm–4pm)

Football Frenzy at Duston Sports Centre, 10.30am–3.30pm

Future Fund Casino Night, fundraising event at Aspers Casino, N’pton.

Wellingborough Ramblers walk (10.5 miles). Meet at car park near Ellesborough Church, 10am. www. wellingboroughramblers.co.uk

Bonfire Night-inspired crafts at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery, drop in 10am–noon & 1pm–3pm. Free admission.

Free Play Ranger Sessions for children aged 4–13 years at Blackthorn MUGA & Rectory Farm Football Fields, 11am–12.30pm and 1.30pm–3pm (& Nov 2). 01604 837774 or www.nleisure.co.uk

Wildlife activities at Stoke Bruerne Canal Museum, 11am–3pm. www.stokebruernecanalmuseum.org.uk

FRIday

MUSIC

Disco and Karaoke at The Welcome Inn, Irchester Road, Rushden

Andy Fairweather Low & The Low Riders at The Stables, Wavendon, 8pm. 01908 280800

The Bighead ska band at White Horse, Stony Stratford, 9pm

The Feelgood Factor, Red Lion, Bozeat, 9pm

Pravin Disco, Golden Horse, Far Cotton

Acoustics night, Foundry Tavern, St James, N’pton, 8pm.

The Over-60s Band, United Reformed Church, London Road, Kettering, 7pm. £5 admission.

THEATRE

God Of Carnage, Royal auditorium, 7.45pm. 01604 624811

Spirit of the Dance Derngate auditorium, 7.30pm. 01604 624811.

Accidental Death of an Anarchist, 7.45 pm, The Stahl Theatre, Oundle. Box office 01832 273930

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club, Underground Auditorium, N’pton, 8.15pm 01604 624811

Wuthering Heights, Carnegie Room, Central Library, Abington St, N’pton, 7.30pm. 01604 624811

OTHER

Horse racing night held at Brafield WMC, A428, in aid of football club

Yorkshire Dales Weekend with Northampton Ramblers. Contact Clive Williams (580795)

Advice Centre with Michael Ellis MP at Northampton Guildhall, by appointment only 3pm–5pm. 0207 2197220

A Victorian Storytelling Sensation in Wappenham village hall, 7.30pm. 01604 860073

Ultimate Ladies Night at Obelisk Centre, Obelisk Rise, N’pton, 8pm. All proceeds to Breast Cancer Care. www.oh0la-la.co.uk

NAB Mobile Sight Centre, Abington Street, N’pton, 10am–12.30pm

Fireworks display, Brampton Halt pub, Chapel Brampton, 6pm. Free entry, £1 donation requested in aid of Pitsford British Legions Poppy Appeal and Help for Heroes. More info www.mcmanuspub.co.uk

Spooky Roller Disco at Danes Camp, 2pm to 4pm

Duston Dunkers at Duston Sports Centre, 10.30am–3.30pm

Retireds’ Group meets in Bridge Community Office, Whitefriars Junior School, Boughton Drive, Rushden, 1.30pm.

Field Workshops with Dominic Wilcox at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery, 10.30am–12.30pm.

Family Firework Evening at Northampton Casuals RFC, Old Bedford Road, N’pton, 6.30pm. Adults £2, children £1, Family £5.

SATURday

MUSIC

Antonio Forcione at The Stables, Wavendon, 8pm. Box Office 01908 280800, £17.50

Big Mistry, The Harlequin, Kettering, 9pm

Del Bromham & Stray, Malt Shovel Tavern, Bridge Street, Northampton, 2.30pm

Steve Perry at Northampton WMC, Sheep Street, N’pton

Words (Words and Music Weekender), The Core at Corby Cube, 7pm. 01536 470470 .

Laura Lou, Queens Park WMC, N’pton.

Camouflage, Bar SO, Abington Sq, N’pton

Pete Wayre entertains at Brafield WMC, A428, from 8pm (& bingo).

Circus of the Damned!, Charles Bradlaugh, N’pton, 8.30pm. 01604 473225

Whiteroom, at The Picturedrome, N’pton, from 9pm. Tickets £5. 016904 230777.

Ginger Pig Band, Auntie Ruths, N’pton, 9pm. 01604 233401

Jenna at British Rail Sports and Social Club, N’pton

Ant Orchestrada at Weston Favell Shopping Centre, N’pton, 11am–4pm.

‘Cool Britannia’ from New Wave to Manchester Rave at Silk, Midland Road, Wellingborough, 9pm to 2am, £5.

Kelly at Monks Park WMC, N’pton

Motown-themed disco at Monks Park WMC, N’pton, 7.30pm. In aid of air ambulance. Entry £5

THEATRE

God Of Carnage, Royal auditorium, N’pton 2.30pm/7.45pm. 01604 624811

Wuthering Heights, Carnegie Room, Central Library, Abington Street, N’pton, 2.30pm & 7.30pm. 01604 624811

OTHER

Afternoon Walk (5.5 miles) with Northampton Ramblers. Meet 1.30pm Rothersthorpe Church.

Parkland Art Group exhibition at Delapre Abbey (& Nov 4). 20% of any sales of paintings to Delapre Abbey funds.

Hand-made Market at Bee Inspired Studio, Market St, Kettering, 10am– 3pm. Free entry

Book Sale, Park Avenue Methodist Church, N’pton, 10am–1pm

Bonfire & Fireworks Extravaganza at Willow Lake, Billing Aquadrome, 7pm. Adults £5, children £3. www.billingaquadrome,com

Bonfire & Fireworks at Duston Mill, Upton Way, nr Sixfields, N’pton. Fairground open 5pm, bonfire lit 6pm, fireworks 7.15pm.

Charity Table Top Sale, All Saints Church, Kettering, 9am. Cost £6, to book 01536 791414

Quiet Day in Church, Thorpe Malsor, nr Kettering, noon–5pm. Free admission

Annual Autumn Market at Great Park Methodist Church, Wellingborough, 9.30am–12.30pm. Free.

Wellingborough Ramblers walk via Cosgrove & Passenham (8 miles). Meet at picnic area car park, Mill Lane, Wolverton Mill, 10am. Visit www.
wellingboroughramblers.co.uk

Ladies Pamper Day, Forest House, Riley Road, Telford Way, Kettering, 9.30am–3pm. 01536 527407

Fireworks Extravaganza, Wicksteed Park, Kettering. Gates open 5pm, display 8pm. 01536 512475

Costume Store Tour at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery, 10.30am–noon. Tickets £3.50

Charity Craft and Gift Fair in support of Headway at Northampton Saints RFC. Free admission

Book signing of Avalonia: The Three Realms at WH Smith, Grosvenor Centre, N’pton, 11am–noon.

Northampton Antiques on the Square Market, 9am–5pm. www.antiques2go.co.uk

SUNday

MUSIC

Disco/Karaoke at The Welcome Inn, Irchester Road, Rushden

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Classic Kids Workshop, Underground Auditorium, N’pton, 11.30am/1.30pm. 01604 624811

Julian Bliss, Derngate Auditorium, 7.30pm. 01604 624811

Words, The Core at Corby Cube, 7pm. 01536 470470 .

Lee Richards, Queens Park WMC, N’pton

Marky T entertains at Brafield WMC, A428, 8pm (and bingo)

Steve Thompson (from Gerry & The Pacemakers) at British Rail Sports and Social Club, N’pton

Open The Box, Golden Horse, Far Cotton

Chris Pearce with Richard Leach (trombone), The Walnut Tree, Blisworth, noon–2.30pm

Carron-Louise at Monks Park WMC, N’pton

Accrington Stanley, Malt Shovel Tavern, N’pton. 2.30pm (at Beer Festival)

Ralph McTell at The Stables, Wavendon, 8pm. 01908 280800

The Drumteacher, KG House, N’pton, 2.30pm–6.30pm. Must pre-register 4Nov@
drumteacher.co.uk

THEATRE

A Christmas Carol, Gretton Village Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £10 from Gretton Post Office (£8 cons) or call Andy Butterworth on 01536 770302.

OTHER

Morning Worship at Whitefriars Junior School, Rushden, 10.15am.

Bingo at Kettering Rifle Band Club, Havelock Street, 8.30pm

Firework Display by Desborough Carnival Committee, Leisure Centre, Ironwood Avenue. Gates open 5pm, display 6.45pm. Adults £4, children £3.

Fun Music, general knowledge bingo at The Whitehills, N’pton

Angel Festival in Church, Thorpe Malsor, Nr Kettering, noon–5pm. Floral displays, sales tables and local art. £1 admission, children free; Songs of Praise in the Church at 5pm.

Wellingborough Ramblers walk morning circular (6 miles), meet nr Wilbarston Village Hall, 10am. www.wellingboroughramblers.co.uk

Circular Day Walk (16 miles) with Northampton Ramblers. Meet 8.15am Church Lane (adj to rear entrance to Church of Holy Sepulchre).

Desborough Bonfire & Firework Display, Pipewell Road. Gates open 5pm, display 6.45pm. £4 adults, £3 children

Stahl Theatre, West Street, Oundle, showing “Salmon Fishing in Yemen”, 7.45pm. 01832 274734

Morning Walk from Kinewell Lake, Ringstead (6.5 miles). Meet 9.30am Market Square car park, Higham Ferrers or 10am Kinewell Lake car park

Morning Walk (6 miles) with Northampton Ramblers. Meet 10am at The Horseshoe, Sywell. Contact Elaine and Brian 01604 403060/07969 779857

Northampton Sun Group naturist club meets 5.30pm–8pm. Call 08707 654326 or www.nsgswim.org.uk

MONday

MUSIC

Lincoln Noel Trio, The Golden Lion, Sheep Street, Wellingborough, 9pm. Free admission.

THEATRE

God Of Carnage, Royal auditorium, 7.45pm. 01604 624811

OTHER

Stu’s Quiz Night at The Welcome Inn, Irchester Road, Rushden.

Weekly Art Class at Irthlingborough Methodist Church Hall, 2pm–4pm. 01933 650195

Pre-village fireworks, Red Lion, Bozeat, 5pm to 7pm.

Men In Black 3, free film night at The Picturedrome, N’pton, 8pm. 01604 230777

Bozeat Fireworks and Mini Fun Fair, Bozeat Playing Fields, Harrold Road, gates open 6pm, display at 7.30pm. Adults £3, child £2. Profits to local charity.

Barnwell Bonfire Night at Village Hall Field (behind Montagu Arms), 6.30pm. £4 adults, £3 children (under 5s free)

tUESDAY

MUSIC

The Manfreds, Derngate Auditorium, 7.30pm. 01604 624811

Anthony John Clarke & Dave Pegg, 8pm. Tickets £10 at The Old White Hart, Cotton End, N’pton. 01604 709990

Roy Forbes with the Graham Dent Trio, Wig & Pen, St Giles Street, N’pton. 9pm. Free.

THEATRE

God Of Carnage, Royal auditorium, 7.45pm. 01604 624811

OTHER

Comedians Marlon Davis, Sara Pascoe & Simon Munnery. £10, from 9pm. The Picturedrome, N’pton. 01604 230777

Morning Ride to Gretton with Kettering Cyclists’ Touring Club. Meet Rothwell, 9.30am or Rockingham Tea Room 11am. 01536 712507

Wellingborough Ramblers walk (4 miles). Meet Kingsway car park, W’bro, 10am. www.
wellingboroughramblers.co.uk

Morning Walk (5.5 miles) with Northampton Ramblers. 10am start from The Old Sun, Nether Heyford. A few stiles.

Families Need Fathers meet at the Thorplands Childrens Centre, N’pton, 7pm.

HSBA (Home Working & Small Business Alliance), meeting at The Fair & Square, Billing Mill, Little Billing, Northampton, 10am–noon. www.hsba.biz

WEDNESday

MUSIC

J for Jazz, The Coach & Horse, Lubenham, 8.30pm–10.30pm. Free. 01848 463183

Joan Armatrading, Derngate Auditorium, N’pton, 7.30pm. 01604 624811

Brian May & Kerry Ellis: Born Free, The Core at Corby Cube, 7.30pm. 01536 470470

Jazz & Blues at The Brad, The Charles Bradlaugh, N’pton. 01604 473225

The Kustom Kings, The Headlands pub, N’pton, 8.30pm. Free.

Rollo Markee and The Tail Shakers, Malt Shovel Tavern, N’pton

THEATRE

God Of Carnage, Royal auditorium, 7.45pm. 01604 624811

Wuthering Heights, Carnegie Room, Central Library, Abington Street, N’pton, 7.30pm. 01604 624811

OTHER

NAB Mobile Sight Centre visiting Brackley Town Centre, outside Town Hall, 10.30am to 1pm; also Towcester Waitrose Car Park, Water Lane, 2pm–4pm

Meditation for Health and Well-being, 7.15pm–8.15pm at Kingsthorpe Baptist Church rooms, N’pton. Contact Rachel 07885 551533

The Inner Wheel Club of Wellingborough Hatton Fashion Show at Broughton Village Hall, 2pm. Tickets £8 (inc refreshments). Contact Jean Harrington 01933 400397

Wellingborough Ramblers walk via Caldecote, Duncote & Ascote (8.25 miles). Meet at The George Inn, Tiffield, 9.30am. www.wellingboroughramblers.co.uk

Morning Walk (7.5 miles) with Northampton Ramblers, 9.30am start from Eydon, outside Royal Oak. 10 stiles

Shoe Heaven at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery, 6pm–9pm. Tickets £3.50 in advance or £4.50 on door.

THURSday, NOV 8

MUSIC

Brian May & Kerry Ellis: Born Free, The Core at Corby Cube, 7.30pm. 01536 470470

Mark Thomas: Bravo Figaro, The Core at Corby Cube, 7.30pm. 01536 470470

10cc 40th Anniversary Tour, Derngate Auditorium, 7.30pm. 01604 624811

And then there were four. The race to be named Northamptonshire’s first Police and Crime Commissioner has been plunged into fresh chaos after Labour withdrew its support for Lee Barron following the revelation he had been fined £20 in 1990 following a disturbance at a town centre pub while watching an England game in the World Cup.

We are left with the farcical situation in which Mr Barron is still technically standing, despite being suspended pending an investigation by his party, even though he can’t actually accept the job if he was to win. It appears his name will still appear on the ballot papers, leaving voters confused and increasingly disenfranchised with an election many did not want, understand or even see the need for.

There are three main losers in this sorry mess. Labour, Lee Barron and democracy.

It is my understanding that Labour knew all about Lee’s past several months ago, ahead of the selection meetings. Questions have to be asked about the thoroughness of checks made by senior party officials. Why weren’t they aware of changes in legislation that meant the offence, no matter how minor, prevented him from standing?

Why didn’t they carry out thorough checks on Lee’s background and suitability for the role? He is a vocal trade unionist and a quick search of YouTube brings up a four minute video of him giving a speech at a rally last year in which he advocates breaking the law.

The party is now in a position of not having a candidate in an election that it stood a very real chance of winning.

As for Lee himself, it would be wrong to hang him out to dry. He is a decent guy who accepts he may have done wrong in the past but has devoted his life to standing up for what he believes in. A magistrate for 10 years, he knows more about the justice system than many of his rivals yet his past has now come back to haunt him.

Quite whether a £20 fine handed out 22 years ago, where he tried to reason with a police officer that his mate shouldn’t be arrested, would impact on his ability to be Police and Crime Commissioner is a moot point. What it does show is that archaic election guidelines have thrown a rather large spanner in the works.

Lee has done more than most to re-establish the Labour party in Northampton. Left in a sorry state by the Clyde Loakes debacle at the last general election, the party found itself on its knees locally. Lee took up the challenge to raise its profile but has been rewarded with little more than the loss of his £5,000 deposit and some embarrassing headlines for his scrapbook.

To the credit of his four remaining rivals, they have not waded in with the usual political pointscoring so often seen in Westminster. There is a genuine sympathy among them for their colleague’s situation.

Yet the fact remains this could all have been avoided.

Every single person that works for Northamptonshire Police is subjected to thorough background checks on both themselves and their family to check for links to criminality. They have a CRB check. They are vetted.

Why then, in the hunt for the person to run the organisation, are those same checks not applied to all the candidates? It was not a requirement to undergo any of those checks. If it had have been, this would have come out months ago, Lee Barron would not have been able to stand and the election could have proceeded as normal.

Instead, we find ourselves in the unenviable position of chaos and uncertainty. There is a very real danger that Northamptonshire could become the laughing stock of the country in these polls.

We have endured enough sleaze and scandal in modern politics to last a lifetime. There is now a demand for openness, honesty and transparency. It’s the least we deserve.

Northamptonshire could become a “national laughing stock” with the police commissioner election decided in the courts, a candidate has warned.

Yesterday, the Labour Party withdrew its support for its candidate in the race to become Police and Crime Commissioner, Lee Barron, after it emerged he was arrested in 1990.

The decision comes after the deadline has already passed, however.

It means Mr Barron’s name is likely to remain on the ballot paper with the electorate able to vote for him, even though he is banned from taking the job.

The Labour Party will not be able to replace him.

Liberal Democrat hopeful Paul Varnsverry said the prospect posed a real threat to democracy.

He said: “If this election continues with Lee Barron’s name on the ballot paper then people may still vote for him.

“He may even end up in the final two candidates if there is no overall winner and go through to the second round, under this electoral system.

“Then we will have someone taking part in the process who cannot take the office.

“It is a surreal and bizarre set of circumstances which could potentially make Northamptonshire a laughing stock.

“I think this is tragic for Lee and I think it could be tragic for democracy.”

Mr Varnsverry called for a “decisive” solution to the issue.

He added: “We really do not want this election to be decided in the courts. We want it to be decided at the ballot box.”

Mr Varnsverry also dismissed allegations his financial situation could prevent him from taking the office, if elected.

He confirmed that despite currently being under the terms of an IVA - which is due to expire in January - there was no reason to prevent him from taking the job.

Former Saints wing Chris Ashton has been suspended for one week following an RFU disciplinary hearing and will miss England’s opening autumn Test against Fiji on November 10.

Ashton is sidelined from Sunday November 4 and is free to play again on Sunday November 11, meaning he will miss no further fixtures for his club, Saracens.

The 25-year-old league convert, after receiving the ban, said on Twitter: “Cheers for the messages, been suspended for a week. Gutted that I’ll miss the Fiji match.”

Ashton appeared before the panel of His Honour Judge Jeff Blackett, Jeremy Summers and Julian Morris after receiving three yellow cards for foul play this season.

He received a post-match Level One citing - treated in the regulations as a yellow card for the totting up system - for a dangerous tackle on Vasily Artemyev in last Saturday’s Aviva Premiership match at Saints.

Earlier this season he was shown yellow cards for dangerous charging in the matches against London Irish (September 1) and Exeter Chiefs (September 23).

Judge Blackett said: “We were guided by the IRB recommendation that a one week suspension was appropriate for totting up offences. The player was not released back to his club by England for Saracens’ game on Sunday November 4 so it would be inappropriate to commence the suspension immediately.

“We have therefore deferred commencement until Sunday November 4 so he misses a game he would have played in. We are concerned about his tackling technique and encouraged that he and his coaches work to correct it.

“We would like to add that Chris Ashton took a realistic and mature approach to proceedings and expressed genuine contrition.”

Harry Woan lifted the County Boys Matchplay crown for the second time by defeating Kingsthorpe’s Jack Walding in the 2012 final at Wellingborough GC.

In a repeat of the 2010 final, when Woan triumphed on the closing hole, the Overstone Park member enjoyed a more convincing win on this occasion as he secured a 5&3 victory.

The England Boys international was given a stiffer test by Gavin Cope in his morning semi-final as he was taken the distance by the Cold Ashby lad before winning on the first extra hole.

Walding reached the final with a 2&1 last four win against Whittlebury Park’s Mitchell Edwards, who defeated Cope with four holes to spare in the third/fourth play-off.

Meanwhile, top county professional Simon Lilly completed an individual and team double on home turf as he found top form in the NPGA Winter Series Pro-Am at Wellingborough GC.

In the second event of the Winter Series, the reigning champion fired two bogey-free halves of 34 to finish three ahead of Jason Newman (Cherwell Edge), with Cold Ashby’s Shane Rose in third on 72.

Lilly joined forces with Chris Billson and John Barratt, plus Woburn’s Frank Breuer, to grab the team honours by four shots with a 14-under-par score.

Local knowledge also provided vital in the battle for second as home club assistant pro James Whittemore combined with amateurs Andy Redding, Paul Redding and Steve Bailey to secure the runners-up prize.

Officials have revealed they may have to hold a fresh election if Lee Barron “wins” the Police & Crime Commissioner election in two weeks.

It emerged yesterday that Mr Barron, the former Labour Party candidate, will not be able to take the job because of an arrest for wilful obstruction 22 years ago. The Labour Party has withdrawn its support for him and now has no candidate standing in the vote.

However, the Police Area Returning Officer (PARO), who is overseeing the election, today confirmed, as reported in the Chron, that Mr Barron’s name will still appear on the ballot paper, even though he can’t take the job.

In a press statement today, the officer said Mr Barron could not legally withdraw from the race.

It leaves officials facing a potentially humiliating situation of having a “winner” who can’t actually take the job following the election, on November 15.

If he was to top the poll a fresh election would have to be held within 35 days, the Home Office said today.

Addressing what would happen if Mr Barron “won” the election, the returning officer said: “There could be a number of ways in which this could be addressed but it would be inappropriate for the PARO to comment on this at this time whilst clarification is being sought from the Electoral Commission and the Home Office.”

The statement added: “All of the five nominated candidates’ names will appear on the ballot papers and electors are able to exercise their voting preference in the normal manner.”

Officials have today ruled out the possibility of voters being advised at polling booths of the situation and stressed the election count would remain unaffected.

The Chron understands at least one candidate has already written to the returning officer to express his concern.

The statement added: “The law governing the conduct of these elections allows a candidate to withdraw by noon on the 16th working day before an election which for these elections fell on October 24, 2012.

“Therefore a candidate is legally unable to withdraw his nomination after this date and the election proceeds with all 5 candidates, as required by legislation.”

The Cobblers are confident they will renew the loan spell of goalkeeper Lee Nicholls, who has returned to Wigan Athletic following the completion of his initial spell.

Nicholls has been a big hit at Sixfields and has fully succeeded as cover for Shane Higgs, who has been out from January until last month after rupturing an Achilles tendon.

Wigan did not give Northampton permission to play Nicholls in their Capital One Cup games this season as they did not want the player cup-tied and that policy could be repeated for the FA Cup tie against Bradford City on Saturday (3pm kick-off).

That factor is one of several manager Aidy Boothroyd is currently thrashing out with the Latics, but he is adamant Nicholls will soon be back at the club.

“Yes, he is staying,” said the Cobblers boss. “All being well all we’ve got to do is dot the Is and cross the Ts.

“These loan agreements can be painstaking because the parent club wants to make sure that their house is in order because they don’t want to lose a player, particularly in the windows they work in, if they can’t potentially call their players back.

“But I fully expect Lee Nicholls to be back with us by the close of play this week.

“(His availability for Saturday) is one of those things that we need to iron out.”

Town will be without Alex Nicholls for the remainder of the season following the striker’s double leg-break in the Port Vale win, but Boothroyd is loath to bring in another centre-forward after Louis Moult got his first senior goal in that game.

The club sent Kemar Roofe back to West Bromwich Albion but still have Liverpool youngster Henoc Mukendi on loan to provide them with some options in attack.

It seems Moult, though, will get an extended run in the side.

“There is a possibility of bringing someone in but Louis (Moult) did very well and scored when he came on and I think it might be time for him to show what he’s all about,” he said.

“Clive (Platt) and Bayo (Akinfenwa) are both available so I’ll have to think about how we play and what I do.

“Sometimes these things happen and something surprises you but I know what a good player Louis Moult is but now he needs to prove that we don’t have to go and spend more money on another forward and that he is capable of doing the job.”

Jim Mallinder has backed Calum Clark to handle a potentially hostile reception at Welford Road this weekend – after confirming the flanker will be in the Saints squad to face Leicester.

Clark’s 32-week ban, which he received for being found guilty of hyper-extending the arm of Leicester prop Rob Hawkins in the LV= Cup final in March, come to an end on Friday.

It means he will be eligible to make his first appearance since being slapped with the suspension and he is likely to be given a white-hot welcome at Welford Road on Saturday.

But Mallinder has no qualms about throwing the 23-year-old into the action and says Clark is fully focused on getting the job done for Saints in the first east midlands derby of the season.

“When he got suspended you look at the next game he’s available and that’s this coming Saturday so you can guarantee Calum will be in the squad this week,” said the director of rugby.

“There are no worries about that whatsoever. There are so many things that happen in rugby, you can’t keep looking back and talking about that.

“You’ve got to look to the future and it’s all about this Saturday.

“I’m sure Leicester aren’t talking about it, we as a team have not spoken about it and Calum is focused on his performance, getting back to playing for Northampton and doing the best he can to beat Leicester.”

And he added: “Leicester is a hostile environment, without a doubt,” he said. “It’s going to be at full capacity from what I’ve heard: 24,000 people there.

“Calum has been thinking about that throughout this period and I’m sure he’ll be fine on Saturday.”

Alan Doyle will be a busy man over the next few days as he seeks to put together almost an entire squad at Kettering Town.

After today’s announcement by the Southern League that the Poppies are allowed to continue in the competition, and the registration embargo placed on them has been lifted, Doyle now has to hit the phones and see if he can raise a side for next week.

This Saturday’s clash with Barwell has been postponed as the league accepted it did not give Kettering long enough to recruit.

But they will be expected to fulfil their fixture against at home to Redditch on November 10.

Not that Doyle is fazed by it.

“It’s great news,” he stated. “The decision is fantastic for us.

“We’ve now more or less got a very short pre-season but without any pre-season games!

“It will be fun. But it is much better than being out of business.

“I have got players lined up to come in but they all now need confirming.

“I can now phone managers in the Conference and the Football League to see if we can get players.

“When they ask ‘what position?’ I can just tell them – you choose!

“We need people in every single position so we will take what we can.

“It is like one of those management computer games – but for real.

“I will be talking to managers about getting loan players and putting seven days in for others.

“Hopefully we can get a friendly organised for Tuesday or Wednesday night next week and we can get this club going again.

“I’m excited about it. I hope the supporters can be as well.”

Saints wing Vasily Artemyev admits he has had a ‘mixed’ season so far.

But the Russian rocket says he is working hard to keep his place in the side.

Artemyev has been named in the starting line-up in every game for Northampton during this campaign, scoring two tries along the way.

But he has endured some tough times, including at London Irish where he struggled at full-back and was withdrawn after just 50 minutes as Saints lost 39-17.

“It’s been a bit of a mixed performance from week to week, personally,” said the 25-year-old.

“I feel like I’m putting in the work and it’s starting to pay off.

“I’m just going to stick it out and work hard to try to claim my place every week. You can’t really claim it for the year, you just have to earn it.”

Artemyev couldn’t prevent Saints suffering a 16-6 defeat to Saracens at Franklin’s Gardens last Saturday.

But they now have a great chance to bounce back from that reverse when they travel to east midlands rivals Leicester Tigers this weekend.

“We feel we let ourselves and let the fans down last weekend and we want to set it right,” said Artemyev.

“The commitment is going to be full on and hopefully things go well for us.

“There’s a lot of excitement in the squad. We’re raring to go.

“The atmosphere is buzzing at the moment and we can’t wait to go and set a few things right this weekend.”

DON’T just sit moaning about fish stock decimation by cormorants and other apex predators – start counting!

That’s the call from Northampton Specimen Group chairman Tony Gibson, who has begun ramping up the fight against over-predation.

He’s urging anglers across the Nene and Upper Ouse catchment areas to record, photograph if possible, and report every cormorant or otter attack they see to the national Predation Action Group.

That group is focused on getting cormorants removed from the protected species list, and exposing the downside of increasing otter numbers to public gaze...the latter an area where, to many on the banks, the Angling Trust can appear afraid to be seen to go.

He said: “We need hard factual evidence, not rant, of the damage over-predation is causing.”

Ready to help? Report incidents at www.thepredationactiongroup.co.uk or email tonygibson1@sky.com.

Cormorants don’t just eat smaller fish.

Town’s Mike Green and buddy Ken Heath recently saw a ‘team’ of three harry a 30lb carp and drive it to the lake’s edge where they tore it apart before being driven off.

He said: “They worked as a team. It was a sad and depressing thing to witness, especially as we’d seen this fish grow from about 3lb to 30-4 the last time it was caught.

“Why is our lily-livered government procrastinating over returning these ghastly killers to the vermin list where they rightly belong?”

CASTLE Ashby boss Mick Hewlett proved he is a boss-rod, too, by setting a new Scotland pond non-carp record, midweek, with 60 slabs, tench and roach for 94-12. Phil Wintle had 64-8 and Pat McGragh 45-10.

SOME 300 people attended Gilders Tackle co-director Julian Davies’ send off at Milton crem last week, with perhaps a hundred outside following the service via the PA system. A popular man and a sad loss to many.

WHITE Hart Flore, Barby Mill: John Berry 32lb, Dale Gibson 30lb, Dave Walker 28lb.

TOWCESTER vets, Stockton: Graham Martin 19-1 (roach to 1-8), Gerald Green 16-12, Grenville Read 9-12.

CASTLE, Canons: Paul Lafflin 17-12, Dave Cantrel 13-12, Bob Moore 13-4.

OLNEY Ouse open: Steve Bull 11-11 (bits), Bob Gale 11-10, Mick Stanley 6-15.

MOBBS Miller, Heyford canal: Darren Childs 10-10 (5 big perch) Mick Dudley 5-13, Stan Atter 4-2.

NENE, Stony Stratford Ouse: John Balhatchett 8-11 (perch to 2-8), Bob Eales 3-5, Gerald Green 3-1.

FLORE & Brockhall, Muscott Mill cut: Rob Rawlins 2-9 (no-mates after winning £60 golden peg), Jim Tanser 2-2, Steve Smith 1-3.

FIXTURES, opens: Sunday, Nene Grafton canal 01604 587382. Nov 10, Olney Ouse 01234 240061.

CATCHES or matches to report? Tell Trevor Johnson at angling@intermediauk.com or on 01908 270000.

South Northants maintained their 100 per cent division five record with a 11-0 thumping of Sixfields Rangers.

Martin Blackwell was the star man on the day netting six, backed up by Dave Wright (2), John Brown, Ryan Camper and Rolla Norton.

Abington Stanley were thrashed 9-2 by visitors Hartwell Forest. Richard Corless and Iain Holland-Hay’s goals counted for nothing as Scott Wilson’s hat-trick and others from Matt Roberts (2), Ross Marriott, Jeff Bigley, Andy Fair and an own goal ensured an easy morning’s work for Forest.

The division saw another 9-2 scoreline as The District swept aside Thorplands Club 81 A. Goals came from Ady York (3), Dean Donaghue (3), Daniel Bazeley (2) and Craig Millar.

Rob Pinney was another hat-trick hero as his treble led Vesta to a 4-1 win over FC Locomotiv Moulton. Jason Bromwell got the other.

Spring Park are still waiting for their first points of the season and they must wait a little longer. FC Gallery Reserves beat them 4-0 thanks to goals from Steve Hamilton (2), Lewis Bentham and Jordan Hornby.

NFA Sunday Trophy

FC Polish Champions crashed out of the Sunday Trophy with a 4-2 defeat from AFC Crown from the Conference, Tomasz Semik and Mariusz Suszynski scored for Polish Champions.

It was better news for AFC Houghton Magna, who beat visitors Peterborough West Town by 5-3. Dean Humphrey (2), Paul Dempsey, Daniel Thomason, Anthony Oxley got the goals.

Midshire Electrical lacked a spark as they struggled to raise a full side to visit FC Hunsbury. They paid the price and were swept aside 6-0.

Harpole’s Darren Inns (2), Liam Butcher, Lee Mills, Greg Ling and Dave Cave were all on target as they comfortably got the better of Thorplands.

Sunnyside Corinthians Reserves travelled to Isham Rangers and returned with an impressive win of 3-0. Ryan Merrey hit a brace, Ricky Richards supporting with a single.

Manfield Rangers excelled themselves racking up a 5-1 win through Gavin Harding, Jack Bates and Jack Rayment hitting a treble against Thorplands Club 81. Gavin Hynes scored for Club 81.

MDS Rangers keep the flag flying for the Combination after beating Real Roochers 5-2 away from home. Danuals Newby (2), James Brown, Ashley Eales and Stuart Reid all netted.

NTFA Goodliff Cup

Wesley Emery scored four to inspire Sunnyside Corinthians to a 5-0 victory over Dynamo. Perry Wells got the other.

Monks Park pipped AC Squirrels in a five-goal thriller, Elliot Muddiman (2) and Tom Townsend for the Monks and Jamie Ellis and Dave House for Squirrels.

The Sunnyside had to wait for Blaine Blaney to clinch this tie in the last minute of play to sneak a 1-0 win over The Royals.

Araglen Cup

Division five side Victoria Park Rangers Reserves put up a brave fight against division five team FC Ryan Munich. Sam Duggan and Donovan Reed got Munich’s winners, Dan Young getting one back for Rangers.

Premier Division

Blakesley had a day to forget when they played host to James King Blisworth.

Jamie Cunningham scored for Blakesley, but they still went down 6-1 after a Rossi Arndell hat-trick, two from Andy Seaton and one from Matt Curry.

St Margaret’s failed to take revenge in their league game from their cup loss last week from Standens Barn with Barn taking an away win of 4-2. Gokhan Ulker and Eddie Stewart scored for Maggies but for the victors Rosko Cook, Ashley Bradshaw with a double strike and Craig Cotton putting Barn top of the premier division by three clear points.

Division One

Fox & Hounds welcomed maximum points in a close game of football with opposition St Margaret’s Res. Strikes from Kevin Westley and Tom Peacock for the Fox sealed it. Koi Bennett got one back for Maggies.

Division Two

Scott Chilton and Bobby Leah got the goals for high-flying Duston Diamonds as they beat Outlet Sports.

Devonshire Club struggled for playsrs against second-placed Roade and suffered the consequences. Daniel Lumb, Ed Sears, Michael Ryan and a Steve Carrel hat-trick saw Roade win with ease.

Spartak battered AC Squirrels Reserves 9-1. Harry Cadden scored for Squirrels, but Spartak ran away with it with strikes from Liam Norton (2), Matty Silecchia (2), Gary Buckseal, Liam Harris, Will Briscoe, Rob Hillery and Adam Norton.

Individual strikes from James Moore, Curtis Norris, Lee Marsh, Delroy Kilborn, Greg Crane, Darrel Birch, Mark Dent, Michael Palmer, Andre Liburd and Brett Parry give a 10-1 massive victory for JWC Athletic against Thorplands Club 81 Reserves.

Monks Park WMC Reserves took on Howdenbeath and mustered up a 7-3 win. Steve Jeltsch scored twice with Neil Clifford a hat-trick. Aaron Bradshaw and Ian Garrett added singles.

Division Three

AFC Dee dropped to second place after they suffered a 3-2 loss to Golden Horse.

Leon Cosford netted twice and Anthony Broadbelt adding another to seal the points. Neil Holt and Adam Russell scored for AFC Dee.

FC Locomotiv Moulton and Obelisk Utd shared the points in a 3-3 draw. Goals from Craig Fowkes, Ryan Fowkes and Kyle Daniels for the home side Loco Moulton with Dave Gillanders, Andre Codner and Alex O’Grady converting for Obelisk.

Wootton Fields lost out to Billing Utd situated in eighth in a tight game and scoreline of 2-1. Matt Hall got on the scoresheet, but Nathan Loudon and Steve Warner ensured the points went Billing’s way.

Goals from Anthony Wood, Nathan Chick and brothers Adam and Anthony Bell ensured Nene came out on top of a seven-goal thriller with Brafield.

Division Four

Butchers Loco FC played host to Staples and won 5-1. Martin Stones netted a hat-trick with Ben Spick and an own goal with Gareth Ferrio picking up the odd goal for Staples. This keeps Butchers Loco level on points with Windmill Warriors.

The Warriors also won, handing out an 8-2 beating against The Sunnyside Reserves. Mark Pittam and Mark Pinches both scored twice in the win, while Dean Mabee, Sam Irons, Chris Desmond and Darren Stevenson also chipped in with a goal apiece.

Struggling Obelisk Reserves were beaten again after they were edged out 3-2 by Gallery at home. Ashley Draper and Liam Dodds’ goals for Obelisk were cancelled out by strikes from Shane Riley, James Mason and Jed Savage.

Workhouse handed AFC Pioneers their sixth defeat of the campaign in a 5-1 scoreline. Jamie Campbell (2), James Sedgwick, Matthew Pheely and Philip O’Brien were all on target.

Royals Res win by 2-0 thanks to an own goal and a single from Tom Humphrey with their fixture with Standens Maestro.

Star award

This week’s award goes to Sunnyside Corinthians for their 3-0 win at Isham.

THE four remaining men hoping to become Northamptonshire’s first Police and Crime Commissioner can be quizzed by readers during a question and answer session on the Chronicle & Echo’s website tomorrow (Friday).

The hopefuls, who are still reeling from news that the Labour candidate Lee Barron has been forced to pull out of the race, will take questions from readers for 90 minutes from 11am as they bid to get your vote for the crucial election on November 15.

The candidates have been travelling across the county to take part in public debates. However, the online debate will be the first time the candidates have discussed the job and their hopes for the role via the internet.

To get involved in the debate and to ask any of the remaining candidates a question, simply click Newsdesk Live at 11am.

In the latest in a series of features looking at what each candidate plans to do, if elected, 
we asked them what they would do to raise money in their first budget and whether they would increase the police council tax threshold.

The new commissioner will have to write a budget for the force - and get it agreed - within the first couple of months of coming into office. They will have to decide whether to raise the police precept and increase tax across the county, or whether to plug funding gaps through further cuts.

The budget will have to be approved by the new Police and Crime Panel before it is passed.

Kettering Town have been a reprieve by the Southern League.

An announcement made by the league this afternoon read: “The Board is pleased to announce that Kettering Town FC has satisfied all the conditions placed on it by the League within the time frame set and, as a consequence, the registrations/transfer embargo has been lifted with effect from today, 1 November 2012.

“However, the Directors believe that it would be unrealistic for the Club to be in a position to sign sufficient players in time to field a team for this coming Saturday’s fixture at Barwell and, therefore, has reluctantly decided that the match be postponed.

“It is also recognised by the Board that the Club still has several other issues in need of urgent attention, not least the power supply to Nene Park, and will be closely monitoring its progress in the hope that all matters can be satisfactorily and speedily settled to enable the Club to retain its place in the League and complete all of its scheduled fixtures for the current season.

“The Board, nevertheless, is mindful of its responsibility to all of the League’s Member Clubs and, while wishing to be as helpful as possible to any Club experiencing difficulties of any kind, must ultimately make decisions that are within the bounds of League Rules.”

The club had been given seven days to meet certain criteria laid out by the Southern League after an emergency board meeting last week.

Kettering Town are one step closer to survival but still have a long journey ahead of them according to majority shareholder Imraan Ladak.

The Poppies were given a reprieve today after the club “satisfied all the conditions placed on it” by the Southern League at an emergency board meeting.

It means they can continue to take part in the competition and have also had a transfer and registration embargo lifted.

Their league game with Barwell this weekend has been postponed but they now have little over a week to put together an entire team as well as attempt to overcome all their other off-field issues.

It is a not insignificant task they face but at least the club survives a little longer.

Ladak explained: “On Saturday I almost thought there was no more that could be done.

“There has been a lot of last-minute work to get us here.

“I’m obviously very happy where we are and that the club has a fighting chance.

“But there is still quite a path for us to navigate and this is only the first step.

“As the Southern League haven’t disclosed what all the criteria where I’m not sure it is right for me to.

“But the most urgent one from their perspective was with the players.

“The delay in the announcement (from 10.30am to 2pm) was just because they wanted to check something with one of the players but we were happy that everything had been sorted.

“The decision is a relief and it means we can now move on to the next stage.

“I’m not getting carried away with anything and nor should anyone else.

“There are promising signs but there is a lot to be done still.

“I think people know the scale of the task that is faced now.”

Among the many issues facing the club is finding a suitable ground to play in time for the scheduled home game with Redditch a week on Saturday.

With the electricity cut off at Nene Park it would seem a different venue is needed.

“We are now working on ensuring we can stage a game of football on November 10,” Ladak continued.

“The rules are that we are free to play anywhere we want for a period of 13 weeks before you have to have a ground-sharing agreement.

“In the short term I think it would be very difficult for us to stage a game at Nene Park.

“The electrical issues are quite complex and I’m led to believe there are only a few people in the country that can carry out the work that is needed.

“It probably can’t happen in that short time and possibly means we will need to look at alternatives.”

The greatest issue is perhaps who is going to fund the club’s future.

Ladak insists he wants to leave any involvement with Kettering Town behind him and has people ready to assume control – hopefully before the Redditch fixture.

But there are important decisions to be made and costs to be met.

“Hopefully they will be somebody else’s decisions.

“All I know is I don’t want to be involved in the football club.

“I have no intention of being involved so anyone who comes in will have to take over the running of the club.

“It will need two parties to solve it and I’m trying to bring them together.

“I don’t think either party can do it on their own but they can together.

“We are setting deadlines for every stage and the date we are working to for completion is November 9.

“If it is a couple of days earlier or a couple of days later that is fine.

“But that is the timescale we are looking at.

“There is still a lot of talking to be done and meetings to have over the weekend.”

Nita Messom was crowned Collingtree Ladies Champion of Champions after a net 72 secured a seven stroke victory from Jenny Gibson.

Two birdies around the turn helped Alan Stokes to a similarly comfortable win in the NAGS October Stableford as his tally of 40 points was six more than Steve Hadley could manage.

Lloyd Backhouse carded the lowest net round of 68 in the October Medal as he beat Ian Brown by one stroke in the second division.

A birdie two on the 12th hole helped Darren Neaves (69) clinch the first category by three shots from Richard Spaughton.

Whittlebury

David Melling completed the back nine in gross one-under-par on his way to shooting the best score of 43 points in the October Stableford.

The next best two rounds both came in the second section as Roger Martin beat Richard Salter on countback with 42.

Sebastien Masterton-Smith (41) won Division Three, while Fergus Robinson compiled the leading mark of 40 points in the Junior Stableford.

In the latest 9 O’Clock Club competition, David Turney (39) picked up the West Park Trophy after beating Ray Swann by a couple of points.

Cold Ashby

Birdies on the 14th and 17th holes from Helen Clayton helped clinch the Mixed Fourball title in partnership with Stuart Nicholas.

The pair bagged a competitive total of 39 points to finish two ahead of Stuart Thomas and Tracy Batch.

David Furnell carded a net eagle and eight net birdies, including six in his last seven holes, on his way to a brilliant winning tally of 43 points in the October White Tee Stableford.

The 13-handicapper finished a single point ahead of Stephen Marriott, with Paul Angus one further point back in third spot.

Overstone Park

There was a three-way tie for first spot in the October White Tee Mid-week Stableford after Ivan Roy, Andrew MacDonald and Kash Naidu all carded 37 points. Roy gained the verdict.

In-form Adam Sandle birdied the last hole on both halves to win the October White Tee Stableford with 40 points.

The 15-handicapper, who has finished in the top seven in five of his last six club comps, edged Dale Burton (38) into second, with Chris Cowap in third on 37. Maggie Down (33) was the leading lady.

Staverton

Geoff Millidge never looked back after parring the opening five holes in the October Stableford as a tally of 41 points secured a four point success.

The runner-up on countback from three players was Mike Grey, who maintained his good form into the Vets October Stableford as he claimed the top prize with a second consecutive round of 37 points.

In the Colts October Stableford, an excellent score of 22 points over nine holes clinched the plaudits for Williams Bell by four from Paddy Parfitt.

Brampton Heath

Jonathan Ireland was in steady form during the October Stableford as he carded three consecutive pars on two separate occasions.

With a tally of 40 points, the 17-handicapper finished one clear of John Aitchison, Jason McGuinness and Lee Butler, who were second, third and fourth respectively.

Farthingstone

Scoring proved difficult in the Seniors Chairmans Cup as Peter Adams came out on top with 34 points.

The 20-handicapper carded three gross pars in the closing four holes to nudge a couple of points ahead of runner-up Jeff Bennett.

Northampton

Roberta Gee’s 37 points were the best score in the Ladies Breakthrough Brooch/Stableford.

Birdies on the 15th and 16th holes clinched the top section for Jean MacKenzie (36) by one from Olly Hickman and Maureen Connor, while Lis Inwood (32) was the leading high handicapper.

Cherwell Edge

Consistency proved the key to success in the October Stableford as mid-handicapper Mark Coleman took the honours by two from junior member Ben Anderson after grabbing 41 points.

A collection of good scores over the last six holes kept Alan Hazell four clear of Matthew Cook (33) in the second category.

Daventry

A birdie on the eighth hole helped secure a countback win for Nigel Smith in the sixth nine-hole qualifying round as he beat Nigel Perry with 15 points.