In recent days, I have received an increasing amount of correspondence from my constituents regarding Southend United Football Club and as such, I wanted to take this opportunity to outline my position to you all.
As many of you know, I was born in Leigh-on-Sea and I have fond memories of Southend United playing in the Football League and climbing up to the second division in my early twenties, and despite my busy schedule as your MP, I always attend home fixtures wherever I can. Southend United is a so much more than a football club; it is the backbone of our community and the heartbeat of our new city. The thought of losing such a tremendous asset, steeped in such a proud history is devastating to say the least.
The situation that the club currently finds itself in is incredibly complex and has arisen as a direct result of numerous compounding factors, all of which you are already aware of. However, I would like to assure you that I have been constantly working behind the scenes, alongside Sir James Duddridge MP, Southend United Football Club and the new CEO of Southend City Council to represent your views.
As this is currently an active court case, I am unable to comment in significant detail, but I wanted to let you know my thoughts on this hugely important issue.
I have already held constructive meetings with the Shrimpers Trust and the Club, and I have arranged a meeting between both parties, as well as other supporter groups to take place in the coming days. I always want to hear the views from fans and I hope to speak to as many of you as I can at games in the future where I am normally to be found either in Block A or B.
It is my sincere hope that we can all work together to not just ensure the survival of Southend United in the short term, but to guarantee its safety and stability in the long term.
Anna
