HEREFORD United have been wound up following a compulsory order by the Royal Courts of Justice today.

The club had to prove they had £1million in place to pay outstanding debts, which included more than £100,000 to HMRC and nearly £250,000 to other creditors.

The court in London heard there was no evidence of the cash being in place and majority shareholder Andy Lonsdale failed to attend as he was stuck in traffic, according to a representative.

After Monday's hearing was adjourned this week, Lonsdale had said the matter "would all be sorted" by today after being asked whether the money would be in place.

The case had been put on hold until today to give the Bulls, who were due to host Hitchin Town in the Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division tomorrow, the chance to prove they could pay up.

United fans made the trip to listen to the latest hearing but there was no sign of Lonsdale despite claims he had the required evidence.

The club's representative was in court to say he had not personally seen any evidence to prove the club had the funds.

He added his belief that a money transfer had been made but he had nothing to show that was the case.

An order was made by the registrar to wind United up, ending an era at the Edgar Street outfit but paving the way for fans to start up a new club.

A statement from Herefordshire Council said: "As Hereford United Football Club (1939) Limited is in the process of being wound up and a liquidator will be appointed, this action triggers the council’s right as landlord to forfeit the leases (at the Edgar Street ground).

"The council will now pursue this and seek to gain formal repossession of all three sites leased to the club.

"Once the ground has been secured, the council will consider the appropriate process for procuring a new tenant to ensure the continuation of football."

Hereford and South Herefordshire MP Jesse Norman said the winding-up order had the potential to offer United a “fresh start”.

“I’m absolutely delighted, it's the best Christmas present for so many loyal fans,” he said.

An FA spokesman said: "This is sad news for the community of Hereford.

"We will do everything we can to assist a return of senior football to Hereford as soon as possible."