A ruling at an industrial tribunal has opened the door for creditors to sue the former members of Coventry Rugby Club to recover outstanding debts.

A group of workers who were axed by the club when financial difficulties arose last year, yesterday took their claims of unfair dismissal to a Birmingham tribunal.

Five former employees alleged unfair dismissal, with two of them - Sharon Daniels a former catering manager, and Keith Williams who was a steward and licensee - winning claims.

There was also a decision in favour of Richard Blundell (21) the club's former commercial manager, who lost his claim for unfair dismissal, but won a breach of contract ruling.

His unfair dismissal claim fell down due to not being employed by the Coundon Road club for two years, but he was awarded nearly £7,000 for breach of contract, which he now believes opens the door for other creditors.

He said:

"Three members Mr Gerry Sugrue, Mr Peter Jackson, and Mr Mike Price were named by the Chairman of our tribunal as respondents to my claim, but it does not isolate them for other claims, it has shown that any member can be liable.

"This obviously leaves the door open for other people who are owed money by the club but have previously not known where they can recover the money from, because they can now target any member who they feel is responsible for their loss."