Two people have been arrested amid claims that tens of thousands of pounds was stolen from a junior football club.
A police investigation is underway over money claimed to have gone missing from accounts associated with Phoenix FC in Southport.
In 2016, Phoenix was awarded £75,000 from a Merseyside Police grant to build new facilities, described as a community hub, at its home of Russell Road playing fields.
Additional money was awarded from the FA towards the project, while an online crowdfunding page was created and events including a race night attended former Liverpool FC player Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock were held to raise the extra money needed for ‘fixtures and fittings’.
But no building work has begun and a source associated with the club, which is home to around 140 children, told the ECHO that it is feared the money may never be recovered.
The source said: “It was meant to be going on a clubhouse that was being built at Russell Road.
“It’s completely empty. There’ve been no signs of building work.
“As far as we know, the money’s gone.”
Discussions are believed to be underway regarding renaming Phoenix to distance it from the alleged scandal.
A spokesman said that the club was aware of the investigation but had plans in place to ensure all children involved could continue playing.
He said: “The club wants to assure people that no matter what, there will still be a club next season.”
Merseyside Police has confirmed that an investigation into alleged fraud is underway.
A spokesman said: “We have arrested a man and woman following an investigation into fraud in Southport.
“They were released under investigation and enquiries into the matter continue.”
