Bradford reach first safety target

Bradford Bulls' hopes of staying in business have been handed a boost after they reached their first target of £500,000 on Tuesday.

The Bulls were plunged into turmoil when the overdraft facility attached to their account with RBS Bank was removed following the sale of the lease of Odsal Stadium. Club chiefs announced on March 27 that the Bulls would go into administration and could even be wound up entirely if £1million wasn't raised to clear debts, with half of that being required within two weeks to pay wages and cover running costs. The Bulls confirmed on Tuesday evening that they have so far raised £506,000 through a combination of pledges, gate receipts and an auction. However, they now need to raise a further £494,000 by the end of the month. "Fans, supporters, sponsors, local business and the entire rugby league community have come together in a remarkable effort," chief executive Ryan Duckett said. He added: "The club will now proceed to the next phase of our plan, in connection with which I can confirm a number of confidential discussions are underway. "We now need everyone to redeem their pledges as soon as possible so that the club can address its short-term issues while those discussions continue. "The directors, staff, coaching staff and players would like to sincerely thank all of those who have pledged and those who have contributed in a broader sense."