FIVE potential Town 'saviours' are in talks with Andrew Andronikou but the club's administrator has warned that survival will not be secured until the 'fat lady sings'.

The Evening Advertiser understands that at least four of the interested parties are property developers.

Mr Andronikou said: "The best case scenario is for a consortium involving the football club, the council and a developer to agree a way forward, whether on the present site or elsewhere.

"There is concrete evidence to suggest that a deal can be done but it is not over until the fat lady sings.

"I want to assure supporters that we are not starting from scratch in terms of trying to attract fresh investment.

"But there is a world of difference between individuals or groups expressing an interest and the money actually being put in place to allow this club to move forward over the next 10, 15 to 20 years.

"We have six weeks to work extremely hard to convince people that Swindon Town is worth giving a future."

Mr Andronikou, again examining the best case scenario, said: "We want to be looking at making an announcement within five weeks and then see a deal finalised in a couple of months.

"But as I stressed yesterday, there is no margin for error. This is Swindon Town's last chance to give itself a future."

The administrator said public praise was due for Andy King's role during troubled times.

Mr Andronikou said the Town boss had done a fantastic job in keeping spirits high and he would not be expected to bear the brunt of the recovery process, in terms of seeing his players sold from under him.

The administrator said: "No-one will have to be sold to save this football club."

While there is room for optimism, both Mr Andronikou and director Bob Holt have warned that supporters need to play an important role in the remaining matches of the season.

Mr Holt said: "It is amazing what a difference an extra thousand people on the gate would make.

"We need the fans to turn out in force for the Blackpool game. I think that would give us all a lift.

"Please get behind us and help us to save this football club."

Messrs Holt and Andronikou revealed a rough guide to the club's financial woes.

Around £2.8million has come into the club over the course of 2001/2 but about £4.2 million has gone out.

Mr Holt said: "The idea over the next three years is to see the losses come down. For example, the wage bill this year is £2.5 million. Next year we have budgeted for £1.5 million."

The Swindon Town Supporters' Trust met with Mr Holt to seek assurances yesterday.

Chairman Tony Norris said: "The board underlined what a difficult position this club is in.

"Everyone has to pull together. We are in a crisis, of that there is no doubt.

"Please join the Trust or at the very least, come and watch your team."