A HANDFUL of Southend United supporters will soon be walking from Chelmsford to Roots Hall to raise awareness of mental health issues.

The walk is part of Southend United’s ‘Match for Mind’ against Yeovil Town on Tuesday January 11.

And Echosport’s Chris Phillips – who is a trustee for SECE Mind – will be among those taking part in the 22 mile walk.

He said: “It’s all part of the ‘Match for Mind’ which we’re incredibly grateful Southend United have allowed to happen.

“They’ve been brilliant and a few from our Run Free group will be walking from Essex Cricket Club in Chelmsford to Southend which is the area SECE Mind covers.

“The main aim of the walk is to raise awareness and to encourage those who may be struggling to speak out.

“We also want them to realise they’re not alone and for them to know that help is out there.

“We will be raising funds for SECE Mind as well to help them carry out the excellent work they do in our area and we’re actually walking with the matchball so we better make sure we get there in time!”

Blues fans Scott Wheeler, Charlie Blissett, Sarah Franklin, Robert Askew and Keiron McGill will also be taking part in the walk.

Anyone wishing to sponsor the walkers can do so here, with all money raised going to SECE Mind.