SOUTHEND United legend Steve Tilson will be looking back on his career to help raise money in memory of his father next month.

Tilson won double promotions as both a player and a manager with the Shrimpers.

And the 53-year-old is looking forward to speaking about his spell at Roots Hall and all other aspects of his career during a one off event being held at Hullbridge Sports on Saturday February 15.

“I haven’t really done anything like this before but it was suggested to me and it’s something different so I’m looking forward to raising money for a cause very close to my heart,” said Tilson.

“We’ll be talking about everything really and people will be able to ask their own questions too.

“My dad died of prostate cancer and I want to do things in his memory to raise money for the charity.

“I did one of the Jeff Stelling’s marathon walks last year to raise funds so this should hopefully be a bit easier than that!”

Tilson grew up watching Blues before being signed by David Webb in 1989.

He made 275 appearances for the club and was voted the Shrimpers’ player of the Millennium.

Tilson returned to Roots Hall as a youth coach before being appointed as manager in 2003.

The former midfielder - who also enjoyed success with Canvey Island in non-league - led the Shrimpers from League Two to the Championship and victory over Manchester United in the League Cup.

And event organiser Kevin Caldon is sure it will be an evening to remember.

“Steve is a local legend really so it’s great to have helped him put this evening on,” said Caldon.

“He’s a local guy who everyone knows and I’m sure he will have a number of stories to tell everyone.

“We will also be having an auction with sporting memorabilia and a few other bits as well so hopefully we can raise a good amount of money for Prostate Cancer.”

The event will be hosted by BBC Essex’s Blues commentator Nick Alliker and the Echo’s chief sports reporter Chris Phillips.

Tickets for the night have been priced at £10 and can be purchased by contacting Caldon on 07503 335095.

Tickets are also available on the night which is due to get underway at 7.45pm.

And Jon Eserin, the director of fundraising for Prostate Cancer UK is pleased Tilson will be raising funds for the charity.

“We thank Steve for his continued support of Prostate Cancer UK with this event and for raising awareness and funds," said Eserin.

“Steve knows more than most about the devastation and heartbreak caused by this disease, which is now the most common cancer in men.

“Prostate Cancer UK want to raise awareness and fund ground-breaking research to help fight the disease.

"That will help us provide dedicated support and information to men and their friends and loved ones.

“Reaching out with events such as this, not to mention the continued support from Steve’s former club, Southend United, can help us in our quest to help stop prostate cancer being a killer.

"We’re incredibly grateful for Steve’s support and hope the event goes well.”