Benchill Celtic Football Club says it is looking forward to a bright future after its former treasurer was convicted of fleecing it of more than £6,000.

Sharon Tomlinson, aged 41, admitted stealing the cash at Manchester Magistrates Court last week, leaving the club with just £5.96 in its account.

The theft had left the junior football club, which owed in the region of £9,000 to a range of organisations, on the brink of collapse.

But now, club bosses have said they have turned a corner, thanks to the help and support of parents, players, and partners.

In a statement, the club said: “It has been extremely difficult to remain positive at times and the impact on the club has been much more than a financial one, with a real cloud hanging over us. However this cloud has now been lifted and we are back on track and the future looks bright.

“Our partners at Cheshire FA, Manchester Enterprise Academy and the Timperley and District League have been very supportive and without them this journey would have been a lot more difficult. 

“But the real and sincerest thanks of all go to  the parents, players, managers and committee of Benchill Celtic JFC who have stuck with us, supported our efforts to get back on track and ensure that the club will be here for a long time to come.

“As with any episode we draw a line under this, we move on and whilst we still face some challenges the Green Army marches on.”

Tomlinson, of Delwood Gardens, Wythenshawe will be sentenced on June 27. She was granted bail.