Grimsby Town FC takeover thrown into doubt.
The leading member of the consortium has pulled out.
The proposed takeover of Grimsby Town FC has hit a problem.
It's understood leading member of the consortium looking to take control Tom Shutes has pulled out.
In a statement on the club's website Senior Director John Fenty says he'll be working with the remaining members of the group to try and find a way forward.
Mr Shutes has led the group who wanted to take over the club and it's thought a deal to buy Mr Fenty's shares was close.
Today's statement is the blow to the Mariners who are currently bottom of League 2.
The uncertainty over the club's future is thought to have been a major reason former manager Ian Holloway took the decision to leave.
In the statement Mr Fenty has described Mr Shutes' public approach as "divisive".
He's also revealed he's received death threats during the process.
Mr Fenty believes now is the time for a truce from the "abuse and misinformation" largely on social media aimed towards him.
He says legitimate criticism is always acceptable but vile abuse and threats are never acceptable.
He hopes an acceptable agreement can now be achieved.