FRUSTRATED Blues fans suffered more heartache today as Southend United was hauled back to court in a dispute with the club’s energy supplier.

A civil hearing was listed at Basildon Magistrates’ Court today in a bid to gain access to the stadium, clubhouse and kitchen at Roots Hall.

But in the latest debacle involving the stricken club, the case that was listed for a brief hearing at 2pm never started.

Southend United chairman Ron Martin attended court today for the hearing where an “application for warrant of entry” was due to be heard. Outside court fans said it was “massively frustrating” the case had not gone ahead.

Harrison Lane, Shrimpers Trust Board Member, said: “This is quite a big case for the club.”

The case comes as fans are set to hold a protest at Roots Hall tonight.

Mr Lane added: “We’ve agreed to take action at the 25 minute mark of the game.

“It will be peaceful action but hopefully effective, we think it’ll make a statement.”

The Shrimpers Trust are exploring ways fan involvement can form part of the club’s future ownership structure.

They have today submitted a proposal for community ownership of Roots Hall.

Mr Lane said: “The idea is to obtain funding to potentially own the ground or have a part ownership in it and have secure funds so we have a stake in the football club.

“I think it can be excellent if we can proceed with it. Hopefully we can show we’ve got the backing of fans then make a formal application and proceed.”

Serious concern surround the future of the club who have until the start of October to pay off their debts to HMRC or be wound up.

Anna Firth – MP for Southend West – is continuing to do all she can to help Blues including holding regular talks with Justin Rees who remain in discussions to buy the club.

The next listing for the civil case will be at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on October 3.