Administrator Jeremy Bleazard has approved an offer from local businessman Tony Stewart to become the new owner of League Two outfit Rotherham.Stewart, of Rotherham-based company ASD Lighting plc, has emerged as the favoured bidder from an initial five candidates to take control of the cash-strapped Millers.

It had looked like Rotherham were on the brink of extinction last week when Bleazard revealed that the club may have to "close immediately" following the withdrawal of offers to buy them after failure to agree a deal to lease their Millmoor ground from its owners, the Booth family.

However, Bleazard held further talks over the weekend and has sought a solution to the crisis.

"After lengthy discussions, I can confirm that we are at an advanced stage of negotiations with a new business venture led by chairman Tony Stewart of Rotherham-based ASD Lighting PLC," said Bleazard of XL Business Solutions.

"This is a major step in securing the club's future and whilst there are a number of technical issues to deal with, I believe I have selected the people most able to take the club forward."

Stewart added: "As someone who has been a major employer in the town for many years, I am aware of the important role the football club has within the community and I am eager to secure the club's future."

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