THE administrators of Darlington Football Club last night vowed to defend themselves against criticism of their conduct during the Quakers' crisis period.

Wilson Field were called in at Christmas after Darlington went into administration with reported debts of more than £20m.

The uncertainty surrounding the club's future ended last week when the Sterling Consortium's rescue package was approved by creditors.

An agreement between Sterling and the largest creditor, ex-chairman George Reynolds, was the key factor in the company voluntary arrangement going through.

But several creditors were unhappy with their settlement, walking away with less than a penny for every pound they were owed.

Joinery firm Beacon Woodcraft, which was owed about £19,000, wrote to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Insolvency Practitioners' Association (IPA) and the football authorities.

The company has questions about the links between the administrators and Sterling, as does the Football League, which has written to the DTI.

Hall Construction, of Ferryhill, which built Darlington's stadium, has also been highly critical of the administrators. It was part of a consortium lining up a reputed £3.7m bid for the Quakers and the stadium and was furious that Sterling acquired the package for £3.2m.

However, the bid was never put in writing.

Joint administrator David Field said: "We're quite happy with our position. I'm not doubting that Hall Construction had a conversation with Stewart (Davies, part of Sterling), but nobody came to me and said we have this offer."

Mr Field said he did not believe the latest developments would affect the football club, which is expected to have its take-over ratified by the League shortly.

IPA complaints officer Wayne Harrison said: "The IPA has recently received a complaint from one of the creditors and this is something I will be investigating."