Hereford United have begun legal proceedings against Conference champions Chester City in a bid to recover an outstanding debt.

The club said in a statement to the Hereford Times yesterday (Wednesday) that Chester still owe almost £18,000 relating to ticket sales from the final match of last season.

The Bulls, who have sought the help of the Conference in obtaining the outstanding sum, claim the money has been promised on several occasions and that a cheque sent to Edgar Street was not honoured when presented for payment. Pro-ceedings began last Friday.

"Had Chester been in financial difficulties we would not have taken this action," said Hereford chairman and director of football Graham Turner.

"But we are aware of them signing, or attempting to sign, experienced and expensive players, including a player from this club.

"We regret having to take legal action but Chester's actions have left us with no alternative."

The United player whom Chester have been attempting to sign is Ben Smith who seems unlikely to return to Edgar Street, but Turner is hoping that Simon Travis will be putting pen to paper on a new contract this week as he continues his planning for next season.

"Whether or not Simon Travis signs on, we shall still be looking for another defender, plus two midfield players and a senior striker," he said. "I'd like to have some new faces in place by the time the players come back for pre-season when I'm sure there will be others joining us for training as well."

Turner said that he was still hopeful that goalkeeper Matt Baker would remain with the club.

"Matt said that he would not be making decisions about his future until after the England National Game Xl tour to the USA," said Turner. "But as far as I'm aware he hasn't had any other offers."

The United boss is also continuing to plan his pre-season fixtures which at the moment include five matches at Edgar Street.