SWINDON Wildcats' English Premier Ice Hockey League match against Manchester Phoenix this Sunday is off after the financially-stricken north west side folded.

Former Phoenix owner Neil Morris revealed last night that negotiations with a potential investor had failed and that the club will need to withdraw from competition immediately.

Phoenix have also confirmed the club is unable to complete the remainder of the season "due to a significant budget shortfall'', with the league being informed of the decision last night.

Morris, who has been affiliated with the club since 2003, stepped away from the club earlier this month, amid mounting problems.

The Wildcats travelled north to Widnes last Sunday to record an 11-3 win over their ailing rivals, but will avoid another long return journey this weekend.

The two sides also met at the Link Centre last month, with Wildcats supporters' organising a collection to raise a four-figure sum for their stricken rivals.

Manchester, who moved to Deeside in North Wales from their Altrincham home last season while plans for a new 3,000 seater arena in Manchester city centre went through, found themselves playing at the Flyde Coastal Ice Arena in Blackpool this season before heading to Silverblades Ice Rinks’ Widnes Ice facility, with the planning process for a temporary home taking longer than expected.

A Manchester statement said: "Manchester Phoenix is saddened to announce negotiations with a potential investor have failed, and the club will need to withdraw from competition immediately.

"The Phoenix has also confirmed the club is unable to complete the remainder of the season due to a significant budget shortfall.

"The organisation is extremely proud of its core group of British players, sponsors, off-ice officials and volunteers, who have stuck with the club through difficult times.

"Manchester Phoenix will honour its commitment to paying the outstanding wages owed to players.''

Morris added: “I am extremely saddened for the whole of the Phoenix community but this decision has become inevitable.

“I’d like our fans to remember the great things the club has achieved, and the impact we’ve made on British Ice Hockey.”