THE Scarlets have been dealt a major blow — off the field of play.

While there are signs that the side's playing fortunes are on the up, following several impressive wins on the pitch, the region could be hit hard in the pocket after one of its main sponsors went into administration.

Bradford-based telecommunications giant Link Telecom signed a five-year deal worth a six-figure sum for naming rights to the region's Parc y Scarlets east stand two seasons ago.

The company has also been involved with the region's community programme, helping deliver rugby skills development and healthy living initiatives with schoolchildren across the region.

But it went into administration before Christmas with debts of about £6.4 million and winding up proceedings started last week against its parent company, ETC Communications.

Scarlets chiefs are remaining tight-lipped over the exact figures involved, but a source claimed the region could lose out on about £50,000 from the collapse.

Scarlets chief executive Paul Sergeant said it was too early to say what effect the announcement would have. He told the Post: "We are aware of the predicament of Link Telecom but only as aware as everyone else. We are trying to get some dialogue. I don't want to speculate or harm any position we have with Link until we have an in-depth conversation with them.

"However, on a general note, as a sports club and modern stadium facility we'd never run the risk of standing still — particularly in the current economic climate. We operate within a competitive, high profile industry and we have ongoing commercial discussions with new partners looking to work with us."

For everything Scarlets, visit myscarlets.co.uk

It is understood Link Telecom sponsors several rugby clubs, including Halifax rugby league outfit. Graham Clay, Halifax chief executive officer, said: "It is a massive blow for the club and will obviously impact significantly on our finances."

Although no one from Link Telecom was available to talk specifically about the Scarlets, boss Gary Fawcett told a newspaper the company had addressed its difficulties head on and would continue to do so.

He added: "There is no escaping from the fact that this has been a difficult year. But Link Telecom is still here, finding practical solutions and not hiding away. I am still here and intend to be so for the foreseeable future."