A WHOLE host of Southend United favourites will be reuniting at Roots Hall in May to remember former Shrimpers skipper Chris Barker.

Barker – who captained Blues at the club’s first ever Wembley cup final, tragically took his own life in 2020.

And a match to raise money for SECE Mind will now be taking place in his memory.

Event organiser Chris Phillips confirmed: “Chris is someone who meant so much to so many people and we’ve been wanting to do this game in his memory for quite some time now.

“Obviously it’s not been possible to play it until now and I’m hoping it will be a day to really remember Chris.

“We all wish this game was taking place in different circumstances and what happened is so sad but the response we’ve had has been fantastic.

“I think that’s testament to the impact Chris had on people on and off the pitch and every penny we raise will be donated to SECE Mind.”

The match will take place on Saturday May 28 and will see a Southend side made up of Barker’s former Shrimpers team-mates taking on a side made up of those he played alongside at other clubs.

Those already hoping to be in attendance include Rhys Evans, Daniel Bentley, Glenn Morris, Cameron Belford, Peter Gilbert, Johnny Herd, Mark Phillips, Lee Sawyer, Ryan Cresswell, Mickey Spillane, Ryan Leonard, Anthony Straker, David Martin, Barry Corr and Liam Dickinson.

However, Phillips hopes more players will be added to the squad.

“We have some who are based abroad and others who are trying to sort things so they can play as well so there will be more details on that soon,” said Phillips.

“We’re also finalising the opposition squad which certainly has some big names in it as well.

“But we’re all determined to make the day the very best it can be.”

Tickets for the match, which kicks off at 3pm, will soon be on sale, priced £5 adults and £1 concessions.