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A local daily newspaper journalist has won a national award for his coverage of a football club on the verge of extinction.
Chris Phillips won the Best in Non-League – Editorial award at this year’s Football Content Awards.
Chris (pictured) has covered Southend United for 20 years for South Essex daily newspaper the Echo.
His award came after United faced an order to settle an unpaid HMRC bill of £275,000 and other debts.
Chris was the first to break the news that a consortium was leading the race to buy United, and has attended every High Court hearing regarding the troubled club, gaining exclusive rights in the process.
Chris said: “I was shocked to be nominated, but even more shocked to have won. It still feels pretty surreal, but I’m very happy.
“As a supporter and as a reporter, it’s been tough at times over the last few months and years. It’s all been really all-encompassing, especially when it looked like the Blues wouldn’t be able to start the season.”
Chris was presented with the prestigious award, dubbed the ‘Oscars of football content’, at a ceremony at Liverpool FC’s Anfield home last month.
Echo editor Michael Adkins said: “The love and passion Chris has for Southend United, the fans, players, backroom staff and manager is clear for all to see.”
“His knowledge is unparalleled in the football reporting world and this year his content has garnered a large and loyal audience online. It has been published on news pages and front pages.
“He can change hands at a moment’s notice from covering the next Blues game to writing an informative and exclusive package on the latest acquisition news.
“This award recognizes his extraordinary achievements and extraordinary fight for the survival of the Blues.”
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