Shrimpers Trust call for criticism of councillors to stop*

Amid the lingering uncertainty surrounding Southend United’s future, THE Shrimpers Trust has appealed for criticism of councillors to cease.

The group seeking to acquire Blues has disclosed that the lack of a response from the Martins’ financing partner and the council’s due diligence procedure are the reasons behind the delay in the purchase.

However, the Trust believes the level of mistreatment directed at the council is unjustified.

A statement from the Trust said: “It should be recognised that the Council is undertaking important and responsible work to ensure the appropriate use of public finance and that this is subject to a rigorous and robust process.

“We call strongly for the cessation of personal attacks on councillors whilst the process continues.”

The delay in the deal being completed had led to Stewarts Law issuing a winding up petition against the club.

But the Trust are calling on them to rethink their actions and plan to hold talks with the legal firm.

The Trust added: “We call on Stewarts Law to reconsider their position, given their previous defence of Southend United FC as a significant asset within the local community, and will be attempting to reach out to them to speak directly on this matter.

“We share the concern of supporters that the never-ending cycle of financial anxiety, potential court appearances and an associated existential threat to Southend United FC has yet to be broken, and the dark clouds hanging over Roots Hall as a consequence of Ron Martin’s tenure as owner have not completely lifted.”

However, the Trust did welcome being kept updated by the consortium who issued a statement via the Echo on Tuesday.

“We thank the consortium for providing clarity and detail on the current situation,” added their statement.

“We urge all relevant parties to work proactively and efficiently to bring matters to a satisfactory close as quickly as possible to ensure the football club’s future is secured without detriment to the outstanding work undertaken by so many employees to this point.

“The Shrimpers Trust will continue to seek the appropriate advice to help guide and inform our position as this situation develops, and we will endeavour to communicate with our members and the club’s supporters throughout this period.”