MP ANNA Firth has raised the possibility of supporters buying Southend United as she strives to secure the future of the Shrimpers.

Ms Firth, MP for Southend West, has organised a meeting to take place at Southend City Council.

And among the items being discussed will be Blues fans playing an active part in taking the troubled club forwards.

Ms Firth said: "I requested that all officers, the leader and relevant cabinet members should be present.

"I am very happy to report that both the new CEO Mr Rob Tinlin and the new Leader of the Council Cllr Tony Cox - Councillor for West Shoebury, responded very quickly and positively.

"In short, Southend City Council have agreed to me hosting a meeting at the City Hall in conjunction with the Shrimpers Trust to explore ideas for going forwards including, but not limited to, the fans buying the club and Roots Hall being considered as a community asset.

"I am sure that within reason other key stakeholders e.g other fan groups / CEO Tom Lawrence will very welcome to attend."

Blues struggled to survive the summer with staff going three months without being paid before finally receiving their salaries from chairman Ron Martin a week before the National League season got underway.

The Shrimpers are back in the High Court later this month due to a winding up petition from HMRC and face a 10 point deduction if the outstanding bill of £275,000 is not paid.

Fans remain deeply concerned for Blues' future and continue to protest outside the house of the underfire Martin who put the club up for sale in March.

And Ms Firth is keen for the meeting to be held soon.

She said: "I intend to push for the future of the club meeting to take place as soon as possible but I remain of the view that it would be most helpful once HMRC and the remaining liabilities required by the National League have been paid and the current embargo lifted."

Ms Firth also confirmed she had attended a Shrimpers Trust meeting where chief executive Tom Lawrence revealed there were a number of parties interested in buying Blues.

She is now seeking clarification from Martin.

"I have no more news regarding any of these buyers but have asked Ron Martin to give me an update," Ms Firth added.

Despite the off field issues Blues started the season with a brilliant 4-0 win against Oldham Athletic at Roots Hall on Saturday.

And Ms Firth has also worked to ensure the players can train elsewhere if required after water was cut off at Boots & Laces due to an unpaid bill.

She confirmed: "The council are happy to offer the club short term use at Garons for training, subject to existing bookings etc, if needed.

"Once again, I was impressed with the speed at which the new leader and CEO took this request on board and with their positive response but hopefully this will not be needed as the new portable loo block with kitchenette will arrive this week and allow the players a healthier more hygienic environment to train in."