An MP is "delighted" as Southend United have been cleared to compete in the National League this season after she has been "working tirelessly".

The Blues had been waiting on a decision from the League on the club's participation in the fifth tier of English football, due to their financial position.

However, the League has confirmed today that the Shrimpers have been awarded a licence to kick off the campaign.

Anna Firth, Southend West MP and a Blues fan, is celebrating as she says she has been working hard in recent weeks, including meeting with the Sports Minister and the National League, to come to this conclusion.

Ms Firth said: "I am absolutely delighted that Southend United has cleared the debts owed to creditors, and now has a licence to participate in the National League and play in the forthcoming season.

"I have been working tirelessly with the National League to come to this conclusion, and I am absolutely delighted that my efforts and those of the Shrimpers Trust have been rewarded with such good news!

"However, along with every other Southend United fan, I look forward to hearing that the two very reasonable conditions laid out by the National League have also been met. This has been an extremely stressful period for all Southend United fans and it is not one we want to see repeated , nor do we want to see the Club start the season with a 10-point deduction. 

"The last piece of the jigsaw is an up-to-date safety certificate for Roots Hall, and I am working closely with Southend City Council to ensure this is in place by the beginning of the season. I am looking forward to seeing the Club back in action at Root’s Hall on August 5!"