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A popular football club in a UK town, in business since 1879, has emerged from administration after being taken over by two businesses. Harlow Town Football Club operates as a private limited company, although the freehold of its home ground, the Harlow Arena at Barrows Farm, is owned by Harlow Town Council.

A judge made a court order appointing administrators in January, with the situation described as "deeply concerning" at the time by town council leader Dan Swords, reports BBC.

In a statement, the club said: "Melody Media and PSM Pension Scheme are delighted to announce that they have completed their takeover of Harlow Town Football Club, enabling it to exit administration."

It added it wanted to thank everyone who had helped during "its recent difficult period".

The statement continued: "Harlow Town Football Club is nothing without its supporters and the local community and we hope they can now look forward to next season with renewed excitement."

The club traces its origins back to 1879, when it was first established under the name Harlow. It became a beloved underdog in English football history after its memorable 1979-80 FA Cup run, during which the team defeated Leicester City to reach the fourth round before eventually being knocked out by Watford.

More recently, the club faced difficulties when it was docked 10 points in January after entering administration.

Administrators were brought in at the beginning of the year after the trustees of the Platinum Sports Management Limited Pension Scheme submitted a formal application.

This means the club's financial affairs were taken out of its own hands and placed under the control of appointed specialists, whose job is to assess the club's debts, protect creditors' interests, and try to stabilise the situation.