WANDERERS are locked in another financial dispute with catering partners Heathcotes.

Guests at the Whites Hotel were informed yesterday that credit facilities for food and drink had been withdrawn and that goods must be purchased with cash only.

Signage around the bar area read: “Due to an ongoing situation the operator can no longer extend credit to Bolton Whites Hotel.

“To this effect the food and beverage operation will be serviced on a cash only basis.”

Wanderers have confirmed the matter is now in the hands of their legal advisors, issuing a short statement on Friday night before an extended version this morning.

"As you may be aware, Bolton Whites Hotel are currently involved in a dispute with Special Catering Services (SCC/Heathcotes)," it read.

"This dispute has been brought about by a number of recent serious breaches of the agreement by SCC, which they have not rectified.

"The Agreement clearly sets out the procedures in the event of a dispute, but unfortunately SCC chose not to follow these procedures.

"Accordingly, following their actions yesterday, which were a further breach of the agreement, we have instructed our lawyers to terminate the agreement.

"We apologise for any inconvenience that this may have caused our valued clientele and can assure you we are doing everything possible to limit the inconvenience.

"As this dispute is now in the hands of our legal advisors, no further statements will be issued on this matter at this time."

Bolton-based Heathcotes have been the club’s catering partner since 2013 and have a staff base of more than 200 people.

A similar dispute hit the headlines in January last year, concerning a bill of nearly £200,000.