Blues boss to receive Freedom of the City accolade

An "inspirational" football coach is to receive the Freedom of the City for "outstanding public service".

Southend United's Kevin Maher will receive the accolade at a ceremony in March.

Mr Maher, who has been the troubled team's head coach since October 2021, was nominated by Southend West MP Anna Firth.

She has repeatedly praised his resilience as the club battled against transfer embargoes, point deductions and repeated HMRC court hearings.

Ms Firth has urged fans to show their support and pack out the public gallery at the city's Civic Centre when the ceremony takes place in March.

Tony Cox, leader of Southend City Council, said: "It's not just the heroics that has been performed in recent times, let's not forget the ten years he's served the club as a player.

"I can't think of a more deserving recipient for Freedom of the City."

Paul Collins, Liberal Democrat councillor, said: "He joined Southend in January 1998 and his first home game was against Millwall, a nil-nil draw. I was there.

"I remember it - painfully cold, miserable and we got relegated that year but it didn't put him off.

"He stayed for many years - 383 appearance [and] 22 goals. As a professional [he made] 517 appearances throughout his career.

"He led us to two finals. He was player of the year twice and now he's managing a club in very difficult times."

Lydia Hyde, a Labour councillor, described Maher as "an inspiration" while Martin Terry, an Independent councillor and Shrimpers' fan, was quick to throw his support behind Mr Maher.

He said: "I wholeheartedly support this. Not just on that basis but the importance of the club to the town and the service he's given to the town."

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