I think this is the end' Lifelong Southend United fans fear for club

Hundreds of fans have gathered in Benfleet throughout the day to protest against the club’s controversial chairman Ron Martin.

But both Ken Bailey and Paul Tidder – who have followed Blues for several decades – believe the club will soon cease to exist.

Ken said: “I first watched Southend in 1976, Paul first went in 1949 and we’re still season card holders but I think this is it now.

“I think it’s over and, personally, I don’t think we’re going to start the season.

"I just don’t see it happening.

“I think we’ll have to start again as AFC Southend.

"This protest is more symbolic than anything else.

“It’s not going to change anything but it might just raise awareness.”

And Paul added: "Whatever happens Ron Martin can have no influence in the club moving forward.

"All the while he’s hanging around in the background people will not forgive him for what’s happening.

• READ MORE: What Ron Martin told protesting Blues fans

"It’s heartbreaking but I’m buoyed by how many people are here and it’s all age-groups too.

“The people we were sitting next to came from London and it’s been well supported, like the club always is.”

Fearing the worst - Mike Jolly (left) (Image: Chris Phillips)

Mike Jolly has been following the Shrimpers since 1975.

And he also fails to see how Blues can continue.

"The situation at the moment is diabolical and I think this is it for us,” said Jolly.

"I cannot see us being able to start the season.

"Whether that’s a points deduction or flat out expulsion I don’t know.

"But I just cannot see any way we can continue under the stewardship of Ron Martin.

“I went to my first match 48 years ago.

“It’s been a long time and it means an awful lot.

"I lived overseas for 12 years and when I did I still followed the club every week.

“But it’s never been as bad as this.”

In fact, so serious has the situation become that Jolly is finding it tough to comprehend.

“I know I’m here today but I’m actually trying to not think about it because it’s just so destressing,” said Jolly.

“I’ve have heard about the impact it’s having on other people’s mental health as well and it’s just so horrible for all of us.”

Worried - Bob Martin (Image: Chris Phillips)

Bob Martin has been following Blues for 54 years.

And he is also struggling to believe just how bad things have become.

“I hate my name being Martin, I’m definitely no relation and this is heartbreaking,” said Martin.

“I've followed the club for 54 years.

“We've had a lot of mess in that time but nothing like this, ever.

“I don't know anything else other than Southend United and I could never support another local club."

Having his say - Phil Dangerfield (right) (Image: Chris Phillips)

Phil Dangerfield has supported Blues for six decades.

And he is also saddened by the club’s struggles.

"I just can't believe it's come to this,” said Dangerfield.

“I'm very, very worried, in fact I'm extremely worried.

“I just don't think this man has any intention to sell the club.

“I've been going 60 years and I don't know what we would do with our weekends without Southend, it's our life.

“This man is going to take it all away from us."