DIRECTOR Gino Ruffinato failed to allay fears benefactors Ernie and Kath Lane were no longer financially supporting Harriers after it was revealed the club had only partly paid wages.

The board member could not confirm if the benefactors, who had been paying the shortfall in the club’s salaries this season, were still willing to do so, despite being asked directly several times.

That came during a day where Gary Whild, his coaching team and players had refused to talk to the press following the 0-0 draw with Halifax.

The squad made the stance in protest of the club’s inability to pay staff.

Ruffinato confirmed only one third of wages were paid to employees on Friday, prompting worries the Lanes were no longer propping up the cash-strapped Aggborough outfit.

"Money is always tight for a club our size, when you chase promotion you try to stretch yourself," commented Ruffinato.

"There are a few issues but hopefully they will be resolved in the next week or so.

When asked about the Lanes he added: “The Lanes have always been supportive of this club and I hope they continue doing so.

“At the moment, they have always been supportive and that’s far as I know.”

The Shuttle understands the board are set to hold a meeting with major shareholders on Monday, before the evening’s AGM (7pm start).

Harriers have been struggling to pay their hefty wage bill and have required the support of the Lanes.

The former directors had quit the board in the summer but the club were convinced they were contractually obliged to underwrite Harriers’ finances.

Kidderminster threatened to sue the pair but as the club struggled to cope with its contractual demands, the Lanes were persuaded to come back on board and the legal action was put on hold.

But Ruffinato blamed the Reds’ current money problems on the team’s inconsistent form and dwindling attendances.

Kidderminster have sold key men Chey Dunkley (Oxford), Marvin Johnson (Motherwell) and Nathan Blissett (Bristol Rovers) for a combined £150,000 this season.

They also received the final £50,000 instalment of the Joe Lolley from Huddersfield.

Whild has had to work in difficult circumstances, after seeing his squad reshuffled over the campaign with a host of senior players moved out and inexperienced rookies drafted in.

"With football, it all deflects from what is going on the pitch,” said the board.

"Had we won the last few games we would have had a bigger crowd and we wouldn't have an issue at all.

"Last year we averaged 2,000 a game, today against Halifax bringing 200 we could have expected that but didn't get it.

"I would like to think that we wouldn't stop any player from progressing to the Football League."

He added: "If a club our size can afford a £350,000 playing budget for the season and the budget is over that, there are three things you can do.

“You either put the money in, which the Lanes have done and for which we are grateful. Otherwise, you try to increase the crowd or you sell a player.

“At this point I would say there are people who would like to join the club as investors. It is ongoing, we have people in mind and hopefully it will come to fruition.”