Officials of Guisborough Town FC have insisted that the club will fight vigorously for its future – though it has admitted short-term financial problems.

Supporters at a packed public meeting on Monday pledged several thousand pounds to help secure the STL Northern League first division club, which also embraces around 10 junior teams.

“There was a real determination to win through. There are problems, but there were also a lot of very positive signs,” said a club spokesman.

The most imminent threat, from electricity supplier E.on to cut off the power supply, is being addressed by local MP Tom Blenkinsop, the club’s president. The clubhouse, a regular live entertainment venue, will also remain open as usual.

The meeting was attended by Richard Bloomfield, a barrister who has acted for several Northern League clubs, and by League chairman Mike Amos. “The football club is crucial to the community. There are some tremendous people here and the league will do everything possible to help them through these challenging times,” said Amos.

The club, which won both promotion last season and the North Riding Senior Cup last season, is also urgently seeking a new chairman.

A major new initiative to heighten the club’s profile and to address its immediate issues is expected to be launched soon.