SOUTHEND United defender Elvis Bwomono was shocked by the racism shown during England’s clash in Bulgaria.

The European Championship qualifier was stopped twice due to the actions of the home supporters.

And Bwomono - who was speaking at a ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ event at Roots Hall yesterday - could not believe what he was seeing.

“It was sad to see for me as a young black player,” said Bwomono.

“Chris Powell, our former manager, was there too. He would’ve gone through it and it’s just shocking and nasty.

“It shouldn’t be in the game and educational events like this for these youngsters are very important.

“The game should be played fair and square and it shouldn’t matter about your race, gender or sexuality.”

But Bwomono would still like to see more done to stop a repeat.

“I think there should be more done when things like that happen,” said the defender.

“I’m not sure if that’s walking off the pitch but if people think that’s the right thing to do then so be it.

“I’ve not really experienced it myself.

“Something did happen in pre-season but I’m not sure what was said or how it was said so I can’t really say too much about that.”

Bwomono was joined at the event by former England defender Paul Parker.

And he felt the Three Lions were right to stay on the pitch.

"The best way to hurt people is to show you’re not hurt," said the ex Manchester United full-back.

"You can take that a take further by doing something they’re not going to enjoy.

"That makes it even better and England did that by scoring the six goals."

As a result, Parker was pleased to see the Three Lions staying on the pitch, despite pre-match talk that they may walk off.

"I didn’t want to hear the talk about them leaving the pitch and I’m sure players from my time feel exactly the same way," said Parker.

"When someone tries to knock you over, you stay on your feet.

"My way of dealing with the situation is to show you’re stronger.

"Being strong is being there and giving them what they don’t want to see and that’s maybe a black person in front of them who is willing to go and prove he’s better at being deviant."

Parker - who is based in Billericay - also spoke to a number of school childen during his visit to Roots Hall.

And he was pleased to be able to play a part. 

"Judging by the number of kids I’ve seen here it’s very important," said Parker.

"The one thing we do know is that racism doesn’t from the kids.

"It comes from the people who are surrounding them.

"It’s important for the kids to understand that and, more importantly for those around them to do the same, to see how they can take it forward."