POLICE have been called in to investigate financial dealings at Hartlepool United.

The embattled Vanarama National League side said it called in Cleveland Police.

A statement on the club's website reads: "It has been reported that the Club is in receipt of a winding-up order from HMRC (HM Revenue and Customs).

"To date, this is not the case.

"However, the Club has been in contact with HMRC and have confirmed the liability due will be settled in full directly by the Just Giving fund-raisers on Thursday morning.

"This has been made possible by the fantastic fund-raising efforts of Hartlepool United fans and the wider football family.

"In addition, there is a report circulating regarding a police investigation in to financial irregularities at the Club.

"It should be clear that whilst the Club cannot discuss details of the investigation, the reality is that the police are responding to a request by the Club and nobody currently involved at Hartlepool United is the subject of any investigation.

"Meanwhile our efforts are fully focussed on exploring various expressions of interest which, whilst the financial challenges in the short term are obvious, must be subject to a process which protects Hartlepool United for the long term."

Cleveland Police issued a one-line statement tonight.

"Enquiries are ongoing into possible financial irregularities at Hartlepool Football Club," a spokeswoman said.

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