NEWPORT Gwent Dragons are expected to announce later today that they have gone into administration.

The final details were ironed out yesterday during a series of meetings and a press statement is set to be issued.

Both the Newport and Ebbw Vale members of the Dragons board are agreed this course of action is the only one which can ultimately ensure the region's security.

It will mean, however, the Dragons players, coaches and other staff members taking pay cuts as exclusively revealed in the Argus last week, some job losses and a complete financial restructuring.

This is because the regional company, Gwent Rugby Ltd., are heading for debts of between £1m and £2m.

If administrators Price Waterhouse Cooper's efforts produce a solution to Newport benefactor and Dragons director Tony Brown's satisfaction, it is understood he is prepared to offer further backing of around £300,000.

It is believed the initial request to the players was that they give up additions to their salaries, such as win bonuses etc.

But they are understood to prefer a pro rata cut in salary which would affect the highest paid more than the lowest and have made alternative suggestions to management.

Dragons chairman Martin Hazell did not want to say anything ahead of a Press statement but confirmed: "I remain optimistic that the course we are taking will be successful and ensure the future of the region."

However, others are less optimistic and it is believed some players have sounded out other regions for possible moves.

Meanwhile Brown, Dragons chief executive David Jenkins and players' representative Richard Harrhy were today heading to the World Cup in the hope matters will be successfully concluded.

The alternative is liquidation with everybody, including Welsh rugby, the losers.