HEREFORD United have been given until next Monday to pay the remainder of their debt to HM Revenues and Customs.

The Edgar Street outfit were yesterday in the High Court over a winding-up order for an outstanding tax and PAYE bill of £78,000.

But, after making a part-payment of around £40,000 last Friday, they have been granted an extension and believe they have the rest of the money following a weekend a fund-raising activities.

Two comedy shows by Omid Djalili at the Courtyard on Sunday raised £21,000, while they have the takings from Saturday's 2-0 home to Woking to take into account as well as donations from fans and clubs.

Hereford legend Ricky George has also donated the £1,500 he won after placing a £50 each-way bet on Grand National winner Pineau De Re.

Director Dave Preedy, who represented Hereford at London's hearing with chairman David Keyte away on business, said: "Once we take into account the kind donations from supporters, the gate receipts from Saturday's game and the amazing £21,000 raised from the Omid Djalili shows on Sunday, then we can say we have enough money to pay the HMRC bill."

"Our efforts must now turn to paying the outstanding wages owed to the players and staff who have continued to work hard in difficult circumstances.

"On behalf of the board I'd like to thank the supporters for their fantastic efforts in helping us to reach our goal of raising £78,000."

United, under the caretaker stewardship of Peter Beadle, return to on-pitch matters tonight as they head to Welling (7.45pm) looking for a first win in 14 matches.

Just one point keeps the Bulls above the Skrill Premier drop-zone with five games remaining.

Michael Rankine could make a welcome return to starting line-up after playing the second-half against Woking.

The striker has been struggling with a hamstring problem and Saturday's appearance was his first since March 15.

Meanwhile, the final of the McDonald's Worcester and District League's Phipps Cup takes place between Foregate and VBL Sports at Pershore Town tonight (7.30pm).