Former Bulls chairman Chris Caisley has thrown his weight behind the ‘Quest for Survival’ campaign and is playing an active role in seeking to attract investment into the club.

Although he remains the club’s single largest shareholder, with around a quarter of all shares, Caisley has not played any part in the day-to-day running of Bradford since stepping down in February 2006.

But the Telegraph & Argus can reveal that Caisley has spoken to the Bulls’ hierarchy about helping to find £500,000 that is needed by April 6 to stave off the threat of administration.

It is believed that Caisley has spoken to a number of potential backers interested in helping the club through its current crisis.

Caisley told the T&A: “Time is of the essence and I’m working hard to try and help find a solution to the current situation.

“The Bulls and sport in general in Bradford has played such a huge part in the lives of so many people in the city in the last 20 years.

"Clearly we need to ensure that the position continues for the next 20 years and well beyond.”

Appointed chairman in 1989, Caisley presided over the most successful period in the club’s history, winning four Super League titles, two Challenge Cups and being crowned World Club champions three times.

Steve Parkin, a millionaire businessman and Guiseley AFC benefactor, floated an ambitious scheme last year to set up a joint sporting club involving the Bulls and Bradford City at a brand new stadium.

Current Bulls chairman Peter Hood said yesterday that he would be willing to open to fresh talks with Parkin and any other party looking to invest in the club.

Hood said: “The club’s board are always ready, willing and able to enter into sensible discussions with credible individuals or groups of individuals.”

Meanwhile, the ‘Quest for Survival’ campaign gathered further momentum as Mick Potter’s squad spent the afternoon at Odsal taking calls from fans looking to pledge cash.

Former Bulls stars Jamie Peacock and Leon Pryce have donated their 2003 Grand Final rings and shirts, while Brian McDermott has decided to sell his 2000 Challenge Cup final playing shirt and winner’s medal to boost the survival appeal.

Yesterday the appeal figure reached the £155,000 mark, making an average of more than £50,000 per day since the campaign began.

Hood added: “The response has been fantastic but we need that to continue.”

The Rugby League Players’ Association have become the latest organisation to join the battle to save the Bulls.

Geoff Burrow, RLPA secretary and GMB sports officer, said: “The RLPA will work with the club, its staff and the RFL in order to try and ensure that Bradford Bulls continue as a club.”