OUTGOING chairperson Paula Henley revealed the “hindrance” of “dead wood” on Wimborne Town’s board had proved the catalyst behind her sudden exit from the club.

Henley described as “untenable” her position and cited the “counter-productive” influence of two unnamed directors having brought an abrupt end to her 160-day tenure at Cuthbury.

In an exclusive interview with the Daily Echo, Henley explained: “There are influences that have done an awful lot for the club and should stay on in some capacity without steering it any particular direction.

“Their views on how to move things forward did not match mine and could be a bit counter-productive.

“It was difficult because certain characters have been involved for a long time and the last thing I wanted to do was damage the club. It is a traditional, family environment and I didn’t want to ride roughshod over anybody.

“I had a clear vision when I started but the dead wood that should not have been there became too much of a hindrance. My position became untenable because I knew I could not push things forward in the way I wanted to.

“It was also made quite clear that it would not have been right to change anything. I tossed and turned at night deciding what to do but felt I could not work on that basis.

“I needed more help and it was not forthcoming from certain quarters. To an extent I found it quite damaging and did not want to champion a lost cause.

“The club has a lot of potential but it needs a change of leadership, a whole board of people who can push it forward commercially and mean it. Too many people are just waiting for things to happen.

“There were also issues from the club’s past in the background that caused me some concern in terms of moving things forward.”

Henley concluded by saying: “I have made some nice friends at Wimborne and would not want to make myself unwelcome but certain things needed to be said.”

Director Ken Fergus said the vacant position would be discussed at a board meeting next Thursday.

Fergus politely declined to directly address Henley’s claims but said: “I have a lot of time for Paula. She has done quite a bit for this club.

“She is entitled to her opinions and I wish her all the best for the future.”

Wimborne travel to Tiverton Town in Southern South & West on Saturday (3pm).