CLACTON Cricket Club have been forced to pull out of the Gibbs Denley East Anglian Premier League.

The Seasiders say they can’t afford to compete at such a high level due to a financial settlement with Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

The tax office are investigating sports clubs up and down the country and, although there is no suggestion of wrongdoing or mismanagement, Clacton were hit with a bill relating to costs and expenses which could run to £10,000.

They have now reached a settlement but, as a result, say they cannot meet their financial obligations to play in the Premier League in 2014.

For the full story and reaction, see Tuesday's Gazette.