THE scale of the financial damage caused to Warrington Wolves by Covid-19 is starting to become clear.

In an update issued to supporters, the club confirmed their year-end accounts show a loss of £750,000 amid the devastation and disruption caused by the pandemic.

However, chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick said those losses would have been much higher without contributions from inside and outside of the club.

Players and staff accepted wage cuts while the vast majority of 2020 members opted to donate the value of matches missed back to the club as opposed to claiming a refund.

“Whilst we have still lost a significant amount of money, the losses have been mitigated by the incredible generosity displayed by supporters and partners," Fitzpatrick said.

"The support of our 2020 legacy members donating their membership money has allowed us retain and build a competitive squad and avoid making large scale redundancies behind the scenes.

"This incredible response from our passionate fans was truly humbling.

"The sacrifice displayed by players, coaches and staff by the way of taking voluntary pay cuts also contributed greatly in mitigating the losses.

"We can’t thank them enough.”

The Wire's past three home games have seen them able to welcome a small number of supporters back to The Halliwell Jones Stadium.

With the final easing of Covid restrictions now delayed until July 19, there will be two more home fixtures – against Leigh Centurions on June 24 and Leeds Rhinos on July 5 – with attendances capped at 4,000.

Despite the prospect of fully-open stadia getting closer, Fitzpatrick warned another financial loss next year is "inevitable."

"Whilst we’re all hoping the end is in sight with the continuation of the vaccination programme, 2021 is still going to be a financially challenging year," he said.

"Another financial loss this year will be inevitable.

"We are still heavily dependent on the support of our directors, and the aim has to be for us to be able to stand on our own two feet as a club.”