‘An Evening with the Consortium’, was a unique football inspired fundraising event held at The Boundary in Southend on 24th April. The highlight of the evening was a Q&A session hosted by Chris Phillips, the Echo’s Chief Sports Reporter who has been documenting the trials and triumphs of Southend United since 2003. Chris’s insider perspective made it an unforgettable experience for fans of the Club.
The event, which brought together local businesses and community supporters, was held to raise vital funds for Havens Hospices – a charity providing specialist care and support for children, adults and their families living with complex or incurable conditions across Essex.
Members of the Consortium in attendance included, Justin Rees, Jason Brown, Paul Redbourn, Tom Arnold, Shivaas Gulati, John Watson, Tom Lawrence and David Kreyling.
Justin Rees, Chairman of the Consortium, said after the event, “It was a well-hosted and thoroughly enjoyable evening in support of a truly wonderful charity. Havens Hospices does incredible work for people during some of the most difficult times in their lives. I’ve had the privilege of visiting their hospices a couple of times, and the care they provide is genuinely inspiring. It’s an honour to be involved in such a meaningful cause, and I’m just glad we could play our part.”
Generously sponsored by BTMK Solicitors, the evening featured a live auction with a range of exclusive items. The funds raised will go directly towards supporting the charity’s work in ensuring more people can receive compassionate care when they need it most.
Codey Gill, Head of Marketing and Business Development at BTMK Solicitors and BTMK Financial Services said, “This event was in support of Havens Hospices – a charity close to my heart but also very close to the hearts of our community. Not only did we manage to raise over £13,500 for this incredible cause, but the event also brought our community together to learn more about the leadership of Southend United Football Club.
“As BTMK were the main partnering sponsor for the event, I had the honour of being heavily involved in organising and managing the evening, and I am immensely proud of what we achieved together, with the help of Barclays and Local Southend Professionals. This event truly highlighted the power of community, commitment and the positive impact we can make, together.”
Chris Hatton, Corporate Fundraising Manager at Havens Hospices, said, “We’re so grateful to the Southend United FC Consortium for their support and to all the companies and individuals who joined us for such a memorable evening. The generosity shown on the night truly reflects the strength and kindness of our local community. Every pound raised will help us continue providing our vital care, free of charge, to everyone who needs us.”
This unique event was held ahead of the charity’s annual Play on the Pitch fundraiser held at Roots Hall, which sees businesses from across South East Essex ditch their suits for studs for an annual football match in aid of local hospice care. This year’s event returns on Thursday 14th May, gates open at 5:30pm, with entry being a donation on the gate.
Published on 12th May 2025
