EDITOR'S NOTE - 11.45am UPDATE

A STATEMENT on the latest twist regarding new ownership at Wrexham FC is expected to be put on the club's website later this afternoon.

Co-owner Geoff Moss told the Leader this morning that the club would issue further details about developments at the club today.

Speaking this morning Mrs Booth said she was "astounded" at what was happening.

A FURTHER twist in the long-running Wrexham FC sale saga was unleashed yesterday with the revelation that ex-Reds player Ashley Ward is in the hunt to buy the club.

And despite the announcement made at The Racecourse on Saturday that hotelier Stephanie Booth was being asked by the current owners to co-ordinate taking Wrexham into community ownership, Mr Ward says he understands no-one has been given preferred bidder status.

Businessman Mr Ward, who played for Wrexham 20 years ago, said his representatives had already had preliminary talks with the club’s owners.

In a statement released on the club website Mr Ward said: “It is very early days yet. My representatives are embarking on the legal due diligence process. I anticipate being in a position to make a formal announcement shortly.

“We have had positive preliminary talks with the supporters’ trust and the local council. We believe each of these parties are instrumental to the future success of the club.

“It is also important that the ownership of the stadium remains in the hands of the club.

“I have also had it confirmed to me, by the current owners, that none of the interested parties has a preferred bidder status.

“Geoff Moss and Ian Roberts have publicly confirmed that they will continue to provide support to the club and ensure it does not enter administration during the due diligence process

“I made my league debut at Wrexham and they helped me get my football career started. I have always had a soft spot for the club.

“I hope that I will be able to restore Wrexham to its rightful position, not only the Football League but in time back into the Championship.”

Reacting to Mr Ward’s statement over no preferred bidder status, Mrs Booth said:

“People heard what I read out at The Racecourse on Saturday, which was from the club’s owners.”

She added she was aware of Mr Ward’s potential interest in buying the club.

Mr Ward has an extensive entry on the Wikipedia website that features a listing of his business interests which include involvement in property.

Richard Owen, chairman of Wrexham Supporters Trust, said there had been an initial meeting with Mr Ward’s representatives and the trust had asked for details of his plans.

Wrexham is set to hold a trial price promotion for Saturday's home match against Rushden and Diamonds with reductions on a number of admission charges and the cost of some refreshments.

It is hoped more than 4,000 fans will turn up for the game.