SOUTHEND United’s chief executive Tom Lawrence has been left humbled by the financial support coming the club’s way.

The Shrimpers Trust and sponsors PG Site Services have both loaned Blues £40,000 while a ‘Go Fund Me’ page started by the club’s supporters group has now raised more than £18,000.

And Lawrence has now issued a statement to express his gratitude.

He said: “The support we have received from the Shrimpers Trust, other supporter groups and the fans, together with our very good friends at PG Site Services, has been humbling and we are incredibly grateful.

“The way out of the financial issues we are currently facing is to move to Fossetts Farm.

“Our new training pitches are nearing completion.

“However, we will not be able to use them until spring, at which point the players can vacate Boots & Laces and work can commence on the new stadium and phase one of the apartment build.

“At that stage very significant sums will be released to the club.

“That will enable the club to be funded pending relocation to the new stadium where, once fully operational, the club will be self-sustaining.”

And Lawrence also confirmed the club were still working to pay off HMRC after a winding up petition, issued by them, was adjourned last week.

He added: “Pending the commencement of the construction works (and the release of funds to the club), work continues behind the scenes to secure bridging finance to pay off HMRC and to supplement the considerable parent company support, required at this time to compensate for double relegations, whilst we continue to build a squad to compete.

“Whilst we currently have cash flow issues, there is a clear line of sight to see us through to the new stadium.

“Our loyal staff have been patient and hardworking, we do not take that for granted and we are very grateful to them for their understanding and support.

We are a community club and the support the fans, supporters groups (too many to mention) and our main sponsor have shown us underlines how much we all care about the club.

“Together we are stronger.”

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