Onwards we Go, Southend FC and Our 26th Unveiling.

We are delighted to announce the unveiling of our 25th and 26th Suicide Prevention Benches, proudly placed outside Southend United Football Club. These benches are dedicated in loving memory of Chris Barker, a former Southend United player.

On a beautiful summer Match day at Roots Hall, the event was incredibly well attended. Andy Leader delivered a moving speech about our cause and offered heartfelt thanks to all who supported and contributed to the fundraising efforts. We were honoured to be joined by former Spurs player Micky Stead and Sean Clohessy, a former Southend player with over 150 appearances.

The benches were unveiled by Sean Clohessy, Yvonne and Adam who both made a generous direct donation to the charity, who, along with Andy Leader’s tireless work to raise funds and push the project through to approval, made this all possible. To everyone who attended and supported the cause—we thank you deeply. Your contribution is helping save lives, and you should feel proud.

Andy, your dedication, time and effort have been truly amazing. We at Legend on the Bench cannot thank you enough. Your passion to honour Chris Barker’s memory through these benches was inspiring, and with the help of fans and the wider community, you made it happen. Incredible work. Also a big thank you to Sean Clohessy for turning out in support of Chris Barker and Legend on the Bench.

Together, we are making a real difference. We are saving lives—but this journey is just beginning. We must keep moving forward. No one should ever feel that suicide is their only option, and no family should have to suffer the devastating pain it brings.

Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak.

Courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.

With love to you all—be kind. 💙💙💙