THE family of the late former Worcester Warriors executive chairman Cecil Duckworth are ‘saddened’ by reports that the club’s immediate future has been thrown into doubt.
Duckworth, who died in November 2020, helped establish Worcester as a Premiership club and was responsible for their rise through the lower division’s of English rugby.
Current Warriors players and staff could be forced to find employment elsewhere should the club enter administration and fail to pay its employees by the end of the month.
A statement from the Duckworth family reads: “The Duckworth family are very saddened by the recent news at Worcester Warriors.
“Cecil and others spent many years building up the rugby club and know he would be devastated by the events which are unfolding.
“Our thoughts are with the staff and players.”
And Warriors players past and present have spoken out about the club’s current predicament including Worcester legend Chris Pennell, who has played more Premiership games for the club than any other player.
Pennell tweeted: “So sad to see what is happening to our club. The fans, players and staff deserve to feel the joy of a packed Sixways and the support of the people of Worcester.
“This is not Cecil’s legacy. Everyone, please get in touch to show your support.”
England international and Warriors star Ollie Lawrence also waded in on Twitter to vent his frustrations.
Lawrence tweeted: “Cecil Duckworth created a legacy for this club, and that is close to being tarnished currently. There just comes a point where people’s careers, livelihoods and families are being affected, which I believe should be answered for.
“I have nothing but respect for the players and staff for continuing to pitch up everyday with all this uncertainty.
“The rumour mill will continue, but it’s above us now as to what happens, but for now we’ll crack on as a team and wait to see what unfolds.”
