Supporters of one of the most famous rugby union clubs in Wales are still waiting to begin a new chapter after a judge in a specialist court postponed the hearing of a winding-up petition.

Judge Sebastian Prentis was listed to analyse Neath RFC’s case at a Companies Court hearing in London on Wednesday.

But he said a winding-up petition presented by a creditor would be reconsidered on February 6.

Earlier this week Neath secretary Mike Price explained how had Neath experienced financial difficulties, but he was optimistic that “the business” could be turned around as a result of a change in ownership.

In a statement posted on the Welsh Rugby Union website, Mr Price said supporters could look forward to a brighter future after ownership was handed to finance company Jardine Norton.

A club history published on www.neathrugby.wales explains how Neath, founded in 1871, were Welsh club champions 10 times between 1909 and 1990.

In 1987 five Neath players, including fly half Jonathan Davies, were in the Wales squad for the first Rugby World Cup.

The club’s position in the game’s structure changed in 2003 with the introduction of regional rugby in Wales.