Chief executive Phil Elliott today dismissed speculation about York Rugby League Club's financial situation in the wake of the resignation of secretary Sue McNichol.

Elliott refuted claims that the secretary's departure was prompted by cash problems resurfacing at the Huntington Stadium club.He said the Wasps' financial status was "no better or worse" than at any stage in recent months, adding that Nichol resigned because she simply no longer wanted to do the job.

"It is a shame. Sue resigned, she decided she did not want to particularly do it," said Elliott.

McNichol took up the post in January and was believed to be only the second female club secretary in the Wasps' 130-year history.On the subject of speculation in rugby league circles concerning the club's position, he said: "One has to remember this speculation has been hanging around us since March of last year.

"The club has survived that speculation and rumour. The position is we have to pay winning wages this month, which is very good. We have good payments for winning and we are making sure we pay the players. We have got to pay the wage bills."

He declined to reveal any possible candidates for the administrative role of secretary at the club, but stated: "You need a professional rugby league person, you cannot bring people in and train people to do it."

Elliott claimed the demands of the role fall short of a full-time job but could be combined with work on the commercial side of the business.

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