Bid is in for Walsall's Banks's Stadium

A multi-million pound bid has gone in for Walsall FC's Banks's Stadium, it was claimed today.

An anonymous businessman from the Black Country is said to have made an undisclosed offer to take on the freehold of the ground and 17 acres of surrounding land.

The news comes as Walsall Council again ruled itself out of taking on the Banks's, with leader Mike Bird saying the authority had "no intention" despite recent pressure.

Councillor Bird said there would be an outcry if the authority bought the stadium freehold at a time when it needs to save £70 million and is cutting jobs.

"The authority has no intention of buying the stadium," he said today. "But I have spoken to a businessman who has made a substantial bid. He is not a developer and was born locally.

"The offer has been put to the agents. I cannot reveal how much it was, but he is a serious potential purchaser."

Music producer and avid Saddlers fan Steve Jenkins has been calling for Walsall Council to buy the stadium.

Mr Jenkins urged the council to safeguard the club's future in the town.

The freehold was put up for sale in March and is being marketed by DTZ, which was today unavailable for comment.