BY STAFF WRITERS

They were once heavyweights of English Super League but the Bradford Bulls are no more after the club’s administrator rejected a bid to save the club and confirmed liquidation.

Administrators turned down a consortium bid just before the new year after the Bulls went into administration for a third time in as many years.

A Bradford outfit will compete in the second tier competition but the club known as the Bulls will cease to exist.

RFL said in a statement: “To clarify the next steps for all concerned, the independent RFL board has met to determine how the future of professional rugby league in Bradford can move forward in 2017.

JOINT ADMINISTRATORS: NO PURCHASE CONCLUDED AND BUSINESS CEASING TO TRADE

Press Release ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/PAYAPVj6b4

— Bradford Bulls (@OfficialBullsRL) January 3, 2017

A sad day for Rugby league and the supporters of @OfficialBullsRL … thoughts to everyone hurting from the news.

— Sam Burgess (@SamBurgess8) January 3, 2017

“While a number of alternatives were considered the board were most mindful of the planning already undertaken by all other clubs in the competition structure, the season tickets already purchased and the players and staff who will now be seeking employment in and around the sport in 2017.

“Accordingly the board has agreed that the wider interests of the sport is best satisfied if it offers a place in the Championship to any new club in Bradford and that such a club start the 2017 season on minus 12 points.

“Any interested parties should contact the RFL directly.”

The Bulls began their journey in 1907, won six premierships, five Challenge Cups and won the last of their three World Club Challenge fixtures against Wests Tigers in 2006.