HEREFORD United say they are closing in on the £78,000 needed to fend off a winding-up order.

The Bulls are due in the High Court on Monday over the unpaid HM Revenues and Customs demand.

But fund-raising has gone into overdrive this week and club officials believe they are now only £20,000 short of the target.

On top of donations from supporters and fans' groups, yesterday's play-off final nostalgia evening and tonight's race night have also swelled the coffers.

It is also hoped a bumper crowd will be at Edgar Street for Hereford's home Skrill Premier match against Woking tomorrow (3pm).

Comedian Omid Djalili is also performing two shows at the city's Courtyard on Sunday, which is expected to generate a significant amount.

Although they are not out of the woods yet, Bulls director Dave Preedy believes the situation is looking brighter.

He said: “Taking into account what we forecast to receive over the weekend from gate receipts, bar takings and additional income we think we're left with about £16,000-£20,000 still to find.

“It's a more manageable figure, but we need one final push from the fans who have so far been absolutely superb with their donations and support of our fundraising events.

“We need to continue fundraising right up until the last minute to ensure we can make the payment to HMRC and hopefully avoid a winding-up order that could put to an end to our 90 year history.

“It would be a disaster if this club ceased to be, we've all got our own personal memories and we're all fighting hard to make sure we keep this club going."

On the pitch, United are just one point above the relegation and looking for their first win at the 13th time of asking.

Midfielder Frankie Artus said: “There are six games to go and every game is going to be vital.

“The sooner we can get points on the board the better.

“I think we’ve played well at times in games but it’s just that cutting edge, we need to score goals and win games."