Rotherham United look to have beaten the fight to avoid liquidation.

That was the encouraging news today (March 23) after a group of leading local businessman came forward with a substantial level of investment and a far-reaching business plan to take the Millers forward.

Club chairman Peter Ruchniewicz said: "We are relieved that the club can now look forward with more confidence. We have had extensive talks with the group and have been impressed with their plans and ideas for the club. They are local people who are prepared to invest in the club to ensure the town does not lose its football club.

"They are prepared to pick up the difficult situation and run with it. They have put together a strong team, including advisors with experience of helping other clubs who have been in financial trouble."

The group is led by Denis Coleman, boss of Rotherham based property consultants and builders Pinder Projects and Italian-born Wickersley-based restaurant owner Dino Maccio.

"Our main aim is to ensure that Rotherham United are playing league football at Millmoor next season," said Dennis Coleman. "I do not want Rotherham to be known as the town that lost its football team.

"Discussions have gone well with members of the current board who must be praised for how they have battled in difficult times to keep this club going. Also, in the development of the new stand, which once completed will provide an opportunity for the club to attract new income streams when they are most needed.

"In putting together our plans we have had support and advice from a wide range of people in particular John Parkin from PKN Accountants in Bramley, Paul Douglas, a life-long Millers fan and Alan Cartledge, a local marketing consultant. Special thanks must also go to Roger Stone, Leader of Rotherham Borough Council, for his invaluable support and advice in the past few weeks."

Formal handover is not expected for a few days until due diligence is completed and further discussions are held. However, both parties are confident that a new board will be in place soon.

Mr Coleman added: "I'd like to think we have become involved with the Millers on behalf of the town. As a group we have invested a lot of money in the Millers - but I must stress we cannot do it on our own.

"Fundraising for the Save the Millers Campaign has gone really well and has undoubtedly helped us save the club. For the time being it is important the fundraising continues. We want to capture the spirit that has been generated by the fundraising across the Rotherham region.

"We have had a wake up call, we do not want to get caught again," added Mr Coleman.

Fundraising for the Save the Millers Campaign has raised many thousands of pounds.

Millers chairman Peter Ruchniewicz said: "This is a terrific response to our Campaign. We cannot thank enough the local community, and in particular our fans, as well as our staff who have put in so much hard work.

"I would urge all supporters to keep backing the club in whatever form they can. - especially at our home games where we need to ensure Millmoor is full for our remaining games."

David Veal, Rotherham United Vice-Chairman, said: "We have kept RUST informed of the situation and the new board will continue the consultation process with them."

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