THE owners of the Newcastle Jesters ice hockey club could face legal action over unpaid wages to players and staff, it emerged last night.

About £50,000 is believed to be owed from last month's wages and was due more than a week ago.

Representatives of the players are threatening action against the club's owner, Fablon of London.

Fablon and its media arm, the Eye Group, have so far refused to comment.

Joanne Collins, executive director of the Ice Hockey Players' Association, said they were attempting to resolve the situation through discussions with the owners, but so far had drawn a blank.

She said: "We have asked the players affected to provide us with details of what they are owed so we can put together potential claims.

"If it is absolutely necessary, we will be discussing with our lawyers the question of action in the civil courts, or an employment tribunal, with a view to recovering the outstanding salaries."

The Jesters have finished their season and many players are waiting to be paid before they return to their homes abroad.

A source within the club said: "It is very frustrating, but there is not much that we can do.

"We have been reassured that pay cheques have been posted and they are on their way.