WORTHING have unveiled a former Worthing United player who was left in a wheelchair following a car accident as the club’s financial saviour.

George Dowell has been appointed as a new director of the Rebels and the majority shareholder in the company which will now be running the club.

The new investment will secure the club’s immediately financial future, will drastically reduce debts and allow the installation of a money-generating 3G pitch at Woodside Road to go ahead.

Worthing’s desperate financial position was revealed last November when it was announced they had debts of almost £200,000 and were having to find £6,000 a month just to open their doors.

The club’s playing budget was reduced at the time and has since been cut altogether.

Dowell was 17 when he was involved in a car accident in 2010 which left him in a wheelchair.

A club statement released last night read: “We are very pleased to welcome George Dowell as a new director of the football club. In addition, we have sought and obtained member approval to allow George to become the majority shareholder in the company.

“As part of this, the club’s finances have been re-structured and the debt will be drastically reduced. The co-operation of major creditors and all shareholders has been crucial in achieving this and George and the existing directors are grateful to them for ensuring a smooth resolution in this matter.

“This paves the way for infrastructure improvements at Woodside Road, starting with the installation of a latest generation 3G pitch – work on which will start at the end of April. The facility will be operated by George’s company set up for the purpose, Worthing Football Centre Ltd, who will take over an extended lease at Woodside Road.

“Worthing FC’s access to the ground will be guaranteed, ensuring football will be played here by the Rebels, at the current level or higher.”