OXFORD Blades ice hockey team have been thrown a short-term lifeline - but still have to secure sponsorship for their long-term safety.

Director Deborah Pope said: "City Leisure, who operate the rink for Oxford City Council, have re-negotiated our hire deal which will be a great help to us and we have received a small cash injection from a private source which will enable us to continue.

"However it is still very much a case of living from week to week and we are still actively seeking sponsorship."

Blades celebrated with a 6-5 win over Invicta Dynamos yesterday.

Story date: Monday 25 October

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