GILLINGHAM, who have an overdraft of around £9.5m, have avoided going into administration, it has been announced.

Chairman Paul Scally says he is confident a solution can be reached following a meeting on Wednesday with the club's bankers in Scotland.

Mr Scally was in a positive mood after the meeting. He said: "The bank are very supportive and are keen to help. I expect us to find a solution and we are working rapidly to find one."

But the Priestfield chief stressed: "We have to increase our income."

* FULL STORY IN FRIDAY'S MEDWAY MESSENGER AND KENT MESSENGER.