THE Echo’s Chris Phillips completed a 90-minute run around Southend United’s Roots Hall on what should have been the final game of the Shrimpers’ season.

He has now raised more than £50,000 for the charity and is keener than ever to help. Here he talks about his efforts.

RUNNING has been responsible for some of the most memorable moments in my life.

It has introduced me to some of my closest friends, helped me become far less of a stress-head and perhaps most pleasing of all it led to me fully appreciating Havens Hospices.

Growing up locally, I obviously knew of the work the charity carried out.

But it was not until my first marathon for them, back in 2008, that I started to realise just how special the place really was and how many families they helped at the toughest times imaginable.

I’ll be honest and admit the first time I visited the venue for a tour I cried in the car home.

However, since then I’ve been back many times, only this time with some of those in care being in attendance and they probably made more impact on me than anyone else I have ever met.

The families could not have been kinder or happier and smiled from ear to ear despite the difficulties they were facing.

It was then I realised that Havens was not a sad place, it was an inspiring one. And ever since that day I have done all I can to raise as much money as possible to help in some small way.

Subsequently, my last six marathons have all been for Havens and I’m pleased to say I have now been able to raise a little over £51,000.

This isn’t about me though and, in truth, I’m slightly embarrassed I’ve even been asked to write this. But I’ve created many memorable moments through the fundraising over the years.

There have been comedy nights, Southend United quizzes, a casino night, FIFA tournaments, auctions and a question and answer session with Blues’ heroes from the 2006 League One winning team.

However, I think my favourite event came last summer when, alongside Adam Barrett, we brought that whole team back together for a match against Colchester United which, with a few other auctions, raised more than £16,000.

Thanks must go to all the people and companies who have donated down the years. But right now Havens arguably needs supporting more than ever.

One of the last things I did before lockdown was to take a tour of the new Havens site which recently opened near Priory Park and it is a fantastic place.

However, many of Havens’ usual fundraising events have been delayed or cancelled due coronavirus.

And, with a football theme in mind, that is why I ran 90 miles in April and ran for 90 minutes around Roots Hall to generate some funds.

The run, with other fundraisers in the past couple of weeks, has made £4,500 but hopefully more is to come - Havens have cared for so many families, it is now time to care for them.

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