Pirates owner tells ITV News of 'most stressful financial period'

The owner of Cornish Pirates Dicky Evans has told ITV News the current coronavirus restrictions have created the most stressful financial period of his career, but insists that the club will recover.

The businessman, who is currently in Kenya told Sports reporter Cari Davies the current measures were costing him £4m a month leaving him 'knackered financially.'

As for the players and staff associated with the Pirates, Evans said a letter had been sent to all asking them to take a pay cut of 15% - asking them to raise any concerns before the 27th April.

However, Evans, who's association with the club covers a quarter of a century believes the club can recover, despite having to make some very difficult decisions. In a statement following his interview with ITV News he revealed his business, which is built on 5 star hotels and a large tour operator, had already lost $12m to date and with no Government intervention he has put 1,000 employees on leave while committing to personally pay them 65% of their salary. Despite taking a huge financial hit, Evans says he is used to the stress and worry.

You can watch the full interview with Dicky Evans here.