Mick Clarke and Reg Smith – the only two men in club history to make 600 appearances – were honoured at a presentation made by chairman Tony Armstrong.

The pair, team-mates for periods of the 1960s, 70s and 80s, received framed certificates as they were given life membership of a club they represented with distinction for many seasons.

Tony said: “Mick and Reg are two true legends of this club and fully deserve this honour.

“To play that many games shows what great loyalty and affinity they had for the club and I personally have great memories of playing with them both.”

Mick is the club’s all-time record appearance-maker, having played 618 games. Primarily playing an attacking role, he made his debut in 1966 when just 20, scoring in a 3-2 win at Grays. His final game came in 1987 by which time he had scored 125 goals.

Left-back Reg made 614 appearances, the first in 1968 and the last in 1981, regularly travelling from his Southend home. He holds the honour of having been voted supporters’ player of the year on a record-equalling three occasions.

The pair, who both played in the run to the first-round proper of the FA Cup in 1976, were among several ex-Shrimpers in attendance at the weekend.

John Mellish, Steve Devaux, Andy Hillier, Bobby Hanks, Clive Brock and Eddie Devaux, all of whom played alongside Mick and Reg, were also present.

Paul Smith, Dean Garnham and Brendan Tuck represented the 90s vintage, while former player and manager John Fidgett kindly donated several items, including a pennant from the club’s centenary in 1977.

That will go on display in the social club, where it has now been joined by the club’s honours’ board which highlights those who have won Essex FA badges and caps whilst representing the Shrimpers.

After a long period in storage, it has been recently updated and is now back on display. The club would like to thank president Terry Francis for covering the cost of this.

Credit is also due to photographer Rob Southgate for covering the presentation (one of his photos is shown above) and content creator Mark Young, who designed the certificates.

Click here for more photos from Memorabilia Day.