ADAM Barrett will be reigniting one of the biggest rivalries in Essex football to help raise funds for Havens Hospices.

The popular former Southend United defender is running the London Marathon for Havens next month.

And, as part of his fundraising, Barrett will be bringing Blues’ 2006 League One winning team back together to play against the Colchester United side who finished second that season at Roots Hall on Monday May 20.

“It’s going to be a great night and I’m already really looking forward to it,” said Barrett, who made 354 appearances during a successful spell with the Shrimpers.

“We were looking at ways to raise as much money as we could and when this idea was suggested I jumped at the chance.

“I’ve been contacting as many of that team as possible and still hope to be able to contact a few more but it will be great to get as many players as possible from that time back together because it was a really special group.

“The spirit we had was probably the main reason for our success so I can’t wait to see everyone again and to run out at Roots Hall with them all again.

“I’ve just got to get through the marathon first and hopefully I’ll be able to move again by the time the match comes around.

"It would be great to get as many fans there as possible too to make as much money as we can for such a great cause."

Former Blues boss Steve Tilson has already confirmed his attendance while Darryl Flahavan, Kevin Maher,Andy Edwards, Duncan Jupp, Luke Guttridge, Lewis Hunt, Lee Bradbury and Che Wilson will also be playing.

Jamal Campbell-Ryce, Carl Pettefer and Mark Gower are also hoping to attend while Barrett is still trying to contact other members of the squad who helped to secure back to back promotions for Blues during an incredibly successful spell in the club's history.

Tickets for the clash have been priced at £5 adults and £1 concessions and will soon be on sale.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for the match while an auction will also be taking place for a fan of both clubs to be included in their side's matchday squad.

The contest is scheduled to kick off at 7.30pm but the former Colchester United players involved in the game has yet to be confirmed however Jamie Cureton and Kevin Watson are expected to be among those in action.

The two teams will be playing for the Sid Broomfield Trophy in memory of Blues former groundsman who passed away earlier this month.

For more details on the game email adambarrett26@icloud.com or chris.phillips@newsquest.co.uk