RUGBY LEAGUE top brass have given Leigh and chairman Mick Higgins a clean bill of financial health.

Chief Executive Maurice Lindsay and RL Auditor Tony Gale have both returned glowing reports after the club called in an independent auditor to examine financial affairs at Hilton Park.

Higgins took the unusual step as rumours swept the town alleging financial irregularities.

The Leigh boss was furious that what he called 'mischief makers' had brought his, and the club's, honesty into question.

Mr Gale says: "I conducted a critical review of the club's financial affairs following a request from Mr Higgins.

"I have carried out a full review on a test basis of all financial aspects of the operation and administration of the club.

"And I'm pleased to report no irregularities or misappropriation of clubs funds were found.

"The accounting systems and controls have been thoroughly examined, and, while the actual system could be modernised, it is considered adequate for control purposes."

Mr Gale's findings are supported by RL supremo Lindsay.

He says: "I'm delighted to say with regard to Leigh RL Club that, not only was there no impropriety evident, but the financial governance of the club is excellent in every way.

"I understand a third party made certain allegations about Leigh's financial management, but I have to say our report shows nothing untoward whatsoever."

The Leigh boss says: "It totally vindicates everything I said at the time about these scurrilous rumours.

"These mischief makers know who they are and it saddens me when people have to resort to gutter tactics for no apparent reason. They have tried to undermine me, the Leigh club and our partners at Hilton Park, Leigh RMI.

"Instead of thinking about trying to undermine these parties, everybody should be pulling together to turn the club around. I just hope these people are proud of themselves.

"I hope this ends a sad chapter and I can now concentrate of taking this club forward."

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