I never knew the guy but wasn't it the case under DFC rules that people joining the Board had/have to input a five figure 'loan' to the club ?
If so, and if you impose such conditions, isn't it pretty obvious that anyone departing is going to call time on that 'loan' ? I'm sure I would.
As for court action to 'kill us', that suggests more about the club's finances and their inability or reluctance to return Les Hope's money than him wanting it refunded.