In the first of a new monthly series, Fans Director Brian Attmore answers questions from supporters in Q&A format. Over 50 questions were received by CFU last month for Brian and his first instalment of answers is published here.

If you have a question for Brian's next Q&A at the end of this month, please e-mail it to cfuinbox@btinternet.com

Why did Jimmy Quinn leave the club? Did you agree with the reasons why Jimmy Quinn left the club?

As supporters we have lot to be grateful to Jimmy for. He brought a pride and belief back to the Club. I must make it clear that his leaving of the Club was nothing to do with the performance of the team (runners-up in the Conference and FA Cup 3rd round in the past season). Nor was it, contrary to rumours, gross misconduct or anything of the sort.

The Board has a Business Plan that they are implementing and have an agreed strategy to move it forward across the company. Whilst, as with all plans, there can be a degree of flexibility it is important that everyone buys into it and gives their full commitment.

On a number of issues there was not total agreement on both sides. Those issues included relocation, the appointment of a Number 2, increased coaching and development of the youth and young players, plus the Board's role in contracts and pay talks.

This was not about past performance but how the Club moves on for this coming season and even more importantly for the next 3-5 seasons. There are times that brave decisions have to be made and this was one.

Speaking for the fans, I wanted to be sure that everything possible was done to resolve any differences of opinion and enable us to move forward from last season. I wanted that to be with Jimmy Quinn as Manager. I fully understand the reasons for his departure; although it was not my wish for it to happen.

I would like to know why, if the club were going to part company (sack) the manager, did they leave it until after he had starting releasing players, and telling others they were free to go if an offer came in? Surely it would have been better to let him go first and let the new manager decide who he wants and who he doesn't?

The Club did not know that they were going to part company with the manager.

Jimmy Quinn was given a playing budget, including management and backroom staff, for this coming season that was not too dissimilar to that from this time last season. In fact it was slightly higher.

Throughout last season our playing costs and size of squad had increased. This was due to the success on the park, funded by increased gate revenue, with reinvestment in the squad of monies from our FA Cup run and transfer income. Despite the disappointment of the result at Wembley, where we came so close to securing a return to the Football League, it was a successful season and will be remembered by Cambridge United supporters.

The size of squad was not sustainable and the playing costs had to be brought back in line to what we could afford, along with all the other budgetary measures at the Club. It was entirely Jimmy's decision on who he released, put on the transfer list and those he kept for the new season.

Given the circumstances of Mr Quinn's departure, do we still have to pay him off?

There was a break clause in the contract for both sides. This meant that both sides agreed a negotiated settlement to suit.

What does mutual consent mean in terms of the legal definition of the ending of a contract - is it a dismissal, resignation or frustration?

It means both sides agree that it is in their best interests to part and agree a settlement.

What fee did we receive for Mark Albrighton, Rob Wolleaston, Lee Boylan and Scott Rendell?

These fees were all undisclosed at the request of the buying clubs. Scott Rendell's fee was used towards the playing costs as we strove to regain our Football League status in the spring. The fees from the other players sold during the summer have been added to the Manager's playing budget for 2008-09.

Why are so many transfer fees for players (in or out) undisclosed? What is there to be gained from this?

If either side wants transfer fees undisclosed then that is what has to happen.

From my experience, a selling side may not wish for it to be made public as, when they next go into the market for a player, the price is upped and wage demands are increased to take account of the sale. This happens even more higher up the pyramid. Or the buying Club may not wish to put pressure on the player by announcing his transfer fee, especially a younger player who is 'one for the future'.

We may not like it but there is more cost to a transfer than just a transfer fee. The whole deal involves the player's contract, details of which are confidential.

You may sign a player on a 'free' but the salary, length of contract, when it starts from, bonuses, relocation expenses etc have to be taken into account. Another player may cost a nominal transfer fee but the rest of the package may be more beneficial to the Club. What you are negotiating is the whole deal and not just a transfer fee.

At our level, transfer fees are not the norm.

Will the new management team have extra funds if and when we receive a sell-on from Dave Kitson's move? If so, what percentage?

It would be wrong to budget for the receipt of any sell-on as anything can happen in football. However if Dave Kitson were to move for a fee, the Board at the time wisely agreed a good sell-on figure, which is 20% of any fee less the amounts we have already received. With the figures being suggested, it would be a very welcome income to a Club in our position.

Whilst there may be an opportunity to assist the playing budget if the Board felt the timing was necessary, it would present a good opportunity to plan expenditure over 3-4 years, depending upon the amount, on the Club's infrastructure to assist generating future revenue. There are many areas of the Club including, for example, the telephone and computing systems that have been denied investment over the past few seasons that impact greatly upon our efficiency.

If you didn't agree with so many players leaving in such a short space of time (which you said in a recent interview), why didn't you say so to the board and why did you not do anything about it?

I had no major disagreement with the Manager's original retained list. The players released all went for a reason as the manager's choice. Bear in mind it was not easy for him to make these decisions and as fans we appreciated what the players had done last season. After some of the lows we have experienced over the past few seasons, it was particularly sweet.

Having released those players for good reasons and room needed in the squad to make improvements, I felt that the moves of Wolleaston and Boylan were two players too many to leave at that juncture. The deals in isolation were good deals for the Club, but in the short term did not help ease fans' anxieties. I made my feelings and that of many fans known but the final decision was down to the players and the manager.

Where are we with one of the key CFU objectives of repurchase of the ground?

Talks are taking place with Stephen Clarke from our landlords Bideawhile and progress has been made over the past year. To repurchase the ground would be a welcome outcome but not at any cost. The price and terms need to be right to give the Club a greater control over its destiny and be in the long term interests.

The current downturn in the economy may assist in stabilising land prices. Conversely it is expected to prove even more difficult to raise money for such purchases.

What is happening with the buy back of the ground or a move to a community stadium?

Cambridgeshire Horizons, the body set up to oversee the county's housing and infrastructure needs, is shortly due to publish its eagerly awaited report. It is anticipated to include suggested site/sites for a community sports stadium.

Cambridge United has been closely involved in discussions with them. Our relationship with all the local authorities has improved greatly over the past three years and we look forward to seeing what plans they have.

The club plans to move grounds in the foreseeable future - what are your views on the location of the ground? Is the Milton Site still the first choice? Can you see any current alternatives?

These are long term structure plans for the Cambridge area and would take a minimum of 7-10years to come to fruition. Bideawhile have made it known that they are looking for a football stadium to be included in a development at the Milton site. It is an interesting proposal but it is still at an early stage with no firm offer made to or commitment given by the Club.

We await any alternatives in the Cambridgeshire Horizons Report. Ground locations are notoriously difficult to find, get planning permission and then to please everyone.

Is the intended capacity of a proposed new stadium still set at a level that strangles any ambition? 6,000?

I agree. A new stadium needs to be big enough to ensure - as you say - that ambition is not strangled. On the other hand it needs to be realistic, both from a price point of view and not too big it can stifle any atmosphere (which I feel happened at Darlington).

The facilities included both for matchdays and weekday income can prove just as important for the sustainability of the project. I would expect any new stadium to be functional with the ability to expand if needed in the future.

With increased crowds are the huge queues at the tea bars before games and at half time losing the club revenue is this being addressed?

The tea bars will be run by an outside company as from this season. We are confident going forward that this is the correct thing to do.

In hindsight was the out-sourcing of the club shop still a good idea?

Having has a full season with it out-sourced, it is now easier to evaluate. We have a guaranteed income from it and then we benefit with a percentage of sales over an agreed threshold. The revamp of the shop interior, the ability of Vandanel to bulk buy, an increased range of good quality kit, longer opening hours and releasing Club staff for other duties has helped repay their investment. In turn it has given the Club a good profit that has exceeded expectations.

Will a new commercial team be in place before the new season to drive sponsorship income, perhaps on a bonus percentage basis?

Commercial activity is continuing at a pace during the close season under the guidance of Business Development Manager, George Rolls. As usual a call to 01223 729206 or e-mail to commercial@cambridge-united.co.uk is the place to get more details of what is on offer.

Will the pitch be moved closer to the South Stand again, now that this is designated a home stand for most matches?

No plans at present.

Are the clubs finances really in the best situation they have been for ten years?

The Club's finances are the best close season since I have been on Board. We do not have huge debts, we know where we are financially and how we are set up for the new season. Rent is paid up to date. Monies received so far from the Wembley game have been useful helping cashflow and season ticket money, as usual, is ring-fenced for release throughout the season.

It does not mean that we are awash with money but there is greater control that needs a continued prudent approach to ensure stability.

What is the current state of play on a second fans director and what are the "road blocks" to this happening? Who do you think would make a good second FD or assistant to yourself, Brian?

A second Fans-elected Director would require a change in the Club's Constitution and approval from shareholders. It has not been discounted by the Board. They are always on the look out for new Directors.

Whilst the requirement last season was primarily investment, any present vacancy would be more likely filled by someone invited on the Board with an appropriate skill deemed needed, whether from CFU or outside.

Currently CFU currently has a shareholding of 10.8%. With the increased share sales since the EGM, this has been declining. It wouldn't be detrimental to ensure this is maintained or even increased. It is quite common for Trust-owned Clubs such as Exeter City to have two FDs, but is not the norm.

There are many capable people on the Trust Board and amongst our fanbase. It would be inappropriate for me to name names. I don't think that enough people realise their own capabilities and potential.

How do you balance the conflicting needs of CFU and the board in terms of influencing the direction of the club?

The summary objectives of CFU are to promote the success of Cambridge United FC by mobilising supporters, raising funds and safeguarding the Club on behalf of its fans. This is in line with the direction that I have always encouraged and used my influence for the Board to proceed.

The Club's Business Plan has community relations and building on our great fan base as a central theme.

Each Director has areas of responsibility. Mine are Community Affairs. Included are the Youth Development and the extensive Football in the Community programme as well as the United in Learning Study Support Centre.

How much time do you spend on director duties each week? How many hours do you spend in other paid employment?

I have a full time management job. This involves working varied hours, shifts, Saturday working and requires getting a large degree of flexibility with my employer. I have been fortunate to have their backing as they appreciate the community goodwill that my director duties bring.

There has to be a high degree of time management by me. This means arranging meetings etc when I have a day off, a morning off or a free evening. In reality, I have very little spare time and am grateful for the patience and support of my wife and family.

As the Fans Director what do you see as the major challenges the club faces over the next few seasons and how will your role impact on them?

1. Moving the Club towards being self-sufficient and not having to rely so much on benefactors or if we do then use it to invest wisely within the Club's infrastructure to generate future income.

Ensure that a prudent approach is adopted at all times and any risks are fully assessed.

2. Getting a firm path laid out for relocation/redevelopment with the Club's future in our hands. Remove or at least minimise the rent.

Turns the negatives about the ground situation into positives, keeping the options open for a better tomorrow.

3. Regaining Football League status. The Club in a better state with solid base of supporters coming from all strata of society with continuing backing earned from of all local authorities, businesses and the whole community.

What is the biggest challenge of being a fans elected director?

Everyone has different expectations of the role. It is similar to being a Member of Parliament. You are there to represent all the fans and each of those would expect different things.

It is not widely understood the degree of personal liability involved. There are legal obligations as a Company Director. These are extended in my role with Youth Development and FITC commitments, both companies in their own right. On all counts there are continual challenges that should not be under estimated.

Part two follows next week

Thanks to Brian Attmore for his time in answering the questions and CFU for organising the new monthly Q&As with Brian. To send your questions for the next one at the end of this month, please e-mail cfuinbox@btinternet.com

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