TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular figure in south-east Essex football.

Former Canvey Island programme editor Glen Eckett has passed away aged just 39 following a brain infection.

And ex Canvey coach Glenn Pennyfather was among the first to express his sadness.

“I remember Glen as a young lad supporting the team with his mum and dad when Jeff King and myself were there,” said Pennyfather.

“He never missed a game and always so supportive.

“He loved Canvey Island and he was a huge part of the club in so many ways through the years.

“Glen was such a lovely person and will be missed so much by all who knew him.

“I know he will be there watching down on match days at his beloved Canvey Island.”

Glen was also a respected referee in local football leagues, officiating a number of cup finals and running the line at West Ham United’s former ground Upton Park.

In his role as head of marketing with Solopress, Glen helped to support a number of local charities and was also instrumental in them becoming front of shirt sponsors for Southend United during an incredibly tough time for the Shrimpers.

And he will be fondly remembered by Southend and Canvey legend Steve Tilson.

“Glen was at Canvey when I was playing and he was fantastic,” said Tilson.

“He was always so enthusiastic and passionate about the football club.

“He did a lot of voluntary work for them but I just remember him being a massive fan and a great person.

“My thoughts are with his family.”

Glen, who was a father of two, continued to assist the club with their media duties up until being taken ill and a fundraising match took place to help him and his family last July.

A whole host of Canvey and Southend legends reunited for the game.

And current Gulls boss Brad Wellmen believes Glen should also be regarded as a club legend.

“Glen was a Canvey supporter in every sense of the word,” said Brad.

“When we were promoted from the Isthmian North Division in 21/22 season Glen was there every week as usual, in one of his many roles, but more in the role of media man.

“One of his tasks was to interview me most weeks, and I will never forget the diligence and excitement in which he undertook these.

“As the season progressed the excitement grew and grew culminating in promotion and that infamous interview that evening at 1am in the clubhouse was truly one of the great memories I will hold close to my heart.

“Glen was a true gentleman and Canvey Island F.C. legend.”

And those sentiments were echoed by ex Gulls defender Steve Ward, Glen’s favourite ever player for the club.

“Glen was a massive servant to Canvey and for me to be called his favourite player is an amazing accolade especially when we had the calibre of players that he saw,” said Steve.

“I always said he knew his stuff!

“Glen's reports on the games were always very positive even when the results weren't and as players it was great to read them because between the lines of his words you could see he was behind us with his love and support.

“He was an important cog in the machine that brought success even though he didn't kick a ball because as we all know the club is nothing without the people behind the scenes putting their hard work and help into what a football club is.”

Ward also felt the match organised for Glen in the summer showed how much he was thought of by everyone connected with the club.

“Glen was a gentleman and you could tell from his benefit game what he meant as a plethora of players text me to ask to play.

“We were devastated to hear the news recently of his passing as we all hoped it would be a battle he would win.

“On behalf of the players who have met Glen we pray for his family and friends especially his wife and children who will miss him.

“God has made one hell of a signing for his team up there.

“Glen what a true gentleman you are. God bless.”

Glen’s funeral takes place at 11am tomorrow morning at Southend Crematorium with the wake being held at Canvey Island Football Club afterwards.

Those attending are asked to wear football shirts if they so wish while flowers have been requested to only be from immediate family.

All donations are requested to be made to Headway, the Brain Injury Association.