This weekend's game will see the two Essex sides forget their allegiances for a moment and raise money for a very worthwhile local cause.

The two clubs, along with both sets of supporters will be raising money for the Little Havens Children's Hospice, along with the Fair Havens Adult Hospice.

The half time interval at the Weston Homes Community Stadium will see company and club mascots from around the county compete in the annual Mascot Race.

But, before that occurs, a group of Shrimpers supporters will be walking from Roots Hall to the Weston Homes Community Stadium to arrive in time for the local derby on Saturday February 21st.

Setting off on Friday morning, the group of seven walkers will trek 42 miles in two days.

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Paul Yeomanson, who has helped organise the event, said: "Both Southend United and Colchester United have been very supportive of our challenge."

Those taking part are Trust committee members Bryan Woodford, Darren Posnack, Trevor Bashford, Paul Fitzgerald and Alec Trott, as well as Hugh Cumberland and Sarah Zimmer.

They will be cared for by a support vehicle driven by Paul.

The group left this morning at 7am from the centre spot on the pitch at Roots Hall and will walk for 30 miles before stopping at Tiptree.

They will resume their journey on Saturday morning, and are aiming to reach the Weston Homes Community Stadium in time for kick-off at 3pm.

Paul added: "It will be fairly tough, especially if the weather isn't on our side but we are really looking forward to doing something different to help these worthy charities.

"We hope to raise in excess of £2,000, and, of course, see the Blues beat the U's!"

Following the game, the mascots taking part will be outside with collection buckets, so please be generous for these very worthy causes.