SOUTHEND United’s staff members are still waiting to be paid, Echosport understands.

As of Tuesday lunchtime, full-time office staff at Roots Hall have gone three months without receiving their salaries while a few in other departments have not been paid in four.

And the Echo has been contacted by three parents concerned by family members having to wait so long for their wages.

One parent, who did not wish to be named publicly said: “It’s just a disgusting way to treat people.

“People are still going in out of loyalty to the club and most definitely not to Ron Martin.

“But it’s having a huge effect on them and their mental health having to go through this every day.

Echosport also understands that Kevin Maher and his backroom team are also still waiting to be paid for June as they somehow try and prepare their side for the forthcoming National League campaign.

Blues were forced to cancel their first two pre-season games – against Canvey Island and Billericay Town – due to a lack of available players – while Saturday’s match with AFC Wimbledon has also been cancelled.

The Boots & Laces training ground is still without water due to an unpaid bill while the Shrimpers have been in a transfer embargo since September due to an outstanding tax bill.

Blues will be back in the High Court on August 23 after twice having a winding up petition from HMRC adjourned.

Concerned fans have protested outside the house of chairman Ron Martin for the past two Saturdays but the Shrimpers owner continues to insist he is trying to sell the club.

Blues currently have just 14 contracted players for the forthcoming season which kicks off on Saturday August 5 with Oldham Athletic due to visit Roots Hall.

The Echo also revealed earlier this month how the players stopped training together until they picked up their wages which were eventually received a week late.

Shrimpers chairman Martin has yet to respond to the Echo's request for a comment.