THE Justin Edinburgh 3 Foundation has donated a defibrillator to Southend United to mark two years since his death.

The former Shrimpers defender passed away when he went into sudden cardiac arrest, with the foundation launched less than three months later.

Nine defibrillators have been donated in less than 12 months and Justin’s son Charlie, the foundation’s CEO, continues to work in his father’s memory.

“The shock never fully retreats but, in the deepest moments of grief, it’s the stories of individuals whose lives were touched by him that inspire us so we can continue his legacy,” said Charlie.

“Dad lived in the moment and looked to the future with unwavering optimism.

“This informed our decision to launch our new website and donate defibrillators today — we wanted to commemorate this specific day, remember the man, while also bringing supporters into this next phase of the foundation’s work”

The website, je3foundation.com, covers the charity’s commitment to defibrillator donations, in addition to delivering wide-scale CPR training, and fighting for Justin’s Law - a legislative change calling for the installation of defibrillators in all health and sports facilities.

Justin started his career with the Shrimpers and made 47 senior appearances between 1988 and 1990.

“Ultimately everything that we’re doing with this foundation has got dad at the heart of it and Southend United meant an awful lot to him,” said Charlie.

“It gave him his first steps into football, and he spent very successful years here with the club including promotion from Division Four. We’re striving to make sure we are doing our job right in helping save people’s lives.”

Former Blues manager Steve Tilson, who played alongside Justin, joined current club captain John White at the presentation.

Tilson said: “When the news came through that Justin had sadly passed away I couldn’t believe it. At the age he was, and not just that but how healthy he was, it was a huge shock. It could happen to anyone, anywhere so the more defibrillators that are around and available the more chance we’ve got of saving lives. Charlie is doing a fantastic job in Justin’s memory and donating this defibrillator is a fantastic gesture.”