Blues and Canvey legends reunite to help raise funds for Glen Eckett

SOUTHEND United and Canvey Island legends will be reunited for a match later this month to raise funds for Gulls programme editor Glen Eckett.

Glen contracted a serious brain injury just before Christmas and is currently in a state of minimal consciousness in Southend Hospital.

Fundraising has taken place to support Glen and his family and former Canvey and Blues star Steve Tilson is doing all he can to ensure the match is a big success.

“If there was ever a fundraiser you really want to raise as much money as possible then this is it,” said Tilson.

“Glen was at Canvey when I was playing and he’s a fantastic person.

“He’s so enthusiastic towards the club and so supportive too.

“It’s incredibly sad what’s happened and I just can’t imagine what his family have been going through.

“We’ll be doing everything we can to raise money to help and to also show them we’re thinking of them.”

Tilson will manage Blues for the match which will take place at Canvey Island’s Movie Starr Stadium on Sunday July 28.

Tilson will be assisted by Paul Brush for the game while the likes of Simon Royce, Lee Barnard and Johnny Herd have already confirmed they will be playing alongside current Blues boss Kevin Maher and his first team coach Mark Bentley.

Prices have been set at £10 adults and £5 concessions for the match which will kick off at 2pm.

All money raised will be going to support Glen’s family.

And Glen’s friend Mark Edwards is also keen to do whatever he can to help his family.

“Glen is first and foremost a hard working family man and is one of the nicest people you could ever meet,” said Mark.

“His current predicament is very hard for us all to comprehend.

“His love of Canvey Island FC has led him from fan to now being both website and programme editor.

“Glen’s lovely family are hopeful for a move to rehab soon .

“The game will help raise funds to help his young family adapt to what will be a monumental change if and when Glen gets to go home.”

A whole host of Canvey legends including Steve Ward, Jeff Minton, Steve Parmenter and John Kennedy will be part of the Gulls squad which also contains television presenter Jeff Brazier and will be managed by Glenn Pennyfather.

The match is being sponsored by Solopress where Glen is head of marketing and was instrumental in them becoming shirt sponsors for Southend United last season.

Tickets for the game are available now from the Shrimpers Trust website while fans will also be able to pay on the gate.