BDO hoping for quick end to Hearts administration as SPL docks 15 points

BDO have promised talks with all potential bidders for Hearts as they seek a quick exit for the club from administration.

The accountancy firm was officially appointed to take on the stricken Tynecastle club on Wednesday.

Bryan Jackson, who has overseen administration at Dunfermline Athletic in recent months, is joined by James Stephen of the firm, plus Trevor Birch, the former Chelsea chief executive who last year delivered Portsmouth FC from administration into fan ownership.

BDO confirmed that the Administrators were appointed at the request of Ukio Bankas, itself in administration, which is Hearts' major creditor and the holder of the floating charge over the assets.

Confirming the appointment, Mr Jackson said: "Fans will, inevitably, be concerned about these developments and none of them will have wanted this moment to arrive.

"We will now undertake an urgent examination of the company's records prior to making any further announcements.

"We are acutely aware of the need for speed in this process given the uncertainty of the last few weeks and the proximity of the season's start.

"We will be talking to all the parties that have shown interest in the club in order to find a resolution as quickly as possible."

Meanwhile the SPL has confirmed Hearts will be docked 15 points in next season's campaign.

A spokesman said: "As Heart of Midlothian is subject to an insolvency event, a 15-point deduction will be applied to its total points in the league championship for next season 2013/14.

"In addition, Heart of Midlothian is subject to an embargo on registering players with the SPL whilst in administration."