Roger and out for dynamic duo (16.05.03)

HIGH on Alan Devonshire’s list of reasons for leaving United were the resignations of chairman Roger Coombs and his wife Jean, the club treasurer.
Roger, an accountant by trade, was originally brought to York Road 12 years ago to sort out United’s woeful finances.
He explained: “The debts were pretty enormous at that time. There was an overdraft of £60,000, a £15,000 loan and we owed £25,000 to the tax man.
“It was quite a lot to take on and it’s been a lot of hard work, but I think it’s worked out quite well.
“We have turned the club around financially as well as producing it out on the pitch. That's very satisfying. It’s definitely been worth it.”
However, Jean remembers it slightly differently, adding: “We wanted to do something to help the community and I persuaded Roger to do it by saying I'd do all the work.”
However, regardless of their motives, the couple soon had the club back on its feet and went on to preside over the most successful era in its history.
After 12 successful years, the couple have many good memories of the club, with Jean recalling one particularly moving episode at York Road.
She said: “I presided over the sprinkling of the ashes of a life-long supporter on the pitch. That was quite emotional.”
In contrast, Roger’s most memorable moment was the sudden realisation that United were a genuine Premier club.
He said: “It was our first game in the Premier, when we beat Harrow Borough at home. That was when I first thought we could survive in this league.
“Now we’ve managed to finish 10th and have matched everyone in the Division. No one did the double over us this season.”
So why leave now?
Jean explained: “It was too much work, too much hassle and each year was becoming more and more expensive.
“We didn’t go on holiday, didn’t see our friends, and didn’t have a social life outside the club. We tried to get other people onboard to help but it didn’t work.”
Roger added: “Obviously I have some regrets about leaving now. The football is probably the best it’s ever been. But I'm looking forward to watching them play without feeling responsible for anything.”
After such a successful stint, fans are obviously keen to learn what plans the Coombses have for the future, but Roger reacted angrily to suggestions on the club website that he might take his talents elsewhere.
He said: “I'm going nowhere. I'm Maidenhead United through and through. I started watching them when I first moved to Maidenhead in 1964. Its Maidenhead or nothing.”
Which poses the question: “Will they ever be tempted back?”
Roger said: “We don’t intend to come back, but never say never. We’re still willing to offer our assistance or help if people ask for it. We’ll just have to see how things work out.”