Essex Police are investigating reports of two sexual offences that are alleged to have taken place on the grounds of Southend United Football Club in the 1970s and are looking for anyone with any information to come forward.

A man aged in his 50s contacted us in May 2017 with reports of offences that took place when he was a teenager between 1977 and 1978.

A 75-year-old man from the Wakefield area has been voluntarily interviewed in connection with the investigation.

We received a further report last month, January 2018, that a second man had been the victim of offences when he was a teenager.

Enquiries are ongoing.

Detective Inspector Mel Jobson said: "I am keen to speak to former staff and players who were associated with Southend United Football Club in 1977 and 1978 as they may have information that could assist our investigation.

"I urge anyone who can help or wishes to report any offences to please get in touch."

Contact the Southend Child Abuse Investigation Team on 101 quoting reference 42/66919/17.

Alternatively, contact independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org