A WHOLE host of Canvey Island and Southend United legends rolled back the years to help raise funds for Glen Eckett and his family.

Lifelong Canvey fan Glen, who is also the club's programme editor, contracted a serious brain infection just before Christmas and remains in a state of minimal consciousness.

And a match on Sunday to raise funds for Glen and his family was attended by close to 500 fans at the Steve Taxi's Stadium.

The game ended in a 3-3 draw and was thoroughly enjoyed by Glenn Pennyfather who took charge of Canvey's team.

"It was a brilliant day," said Pennyfather.

"I was talking to a few lads after the game and they've absolutely loved it getting back together.

"It's not often we do it and it was emotional because we were doing it for Glen Eckett.

"I took a team-talk before the game and that was emotional too.

"We spoke about Glen, what he means to us and the club and why we were here.

"It's been brilliant and I'm so pleased we've raised a decent amount of money to help Glen and his family."

Jay Curran scored twice for the Canvey legends side while Tarkan Mustafa was also on target for the team which included Steve Ward, TV presenter Jeff Brazier and current Crawley Town manager Scott Lindsay.

And Pennyfather felt the number of players in attendance showed just how much Glen means to the club.

"It's testament to Glen the amount of ex Canvey players who have come to play and the number of fans here too," said Pennyfather.

"I've known Glen since he must have been six, seven or eight and came along as a fan through to the more formal position he has now.

"He's held in such high esteem and he's loved by everyone.

"He's genuinely such a lovely man and all our thoughts, prayers and best wishes go to him and his family."

Lewis Gard scored twice for the Southend side while auction winner Kym Marsh also hit the back of the net.

Current Blues boss Kevin Maher, Mark Bentley, Leo Roget and the club's new owner Justin Rees also played for the team managed by Steve Tilson.

And Pennyfather thought it was an entertaining encounter.

"It was a great game and there were some good performances too," said Pennyfather.

"It was interesting and a fair result in the end.

"The game was played in a great spirit and it was a really hot day.

"The effort everyone put in made it enjoyable for those watching."

The amount raised from the match has yet to be officially calculated but it is expected to be more than £5,000.

The match was sponsored by Solopress where Glen is head of marketing.

Donations can still be made here