One lucky Southend United supporter didn't mind hanging around in the traffic outside Colchester United's Weston Homes Community Stadium last month.

Some supporters were forced to wait as long as one hour before departing the U's new stadium.

However, 25-year-old Matthew Baines sat it out in the comfort of the Blues team bus after winning the chance to travel with the team in the Blues Lottery.

"The day was really good" said Matthew Baines who ironically lives in Suffolk. "We got on to the coach from Roots Hall at midday and travelled to Colchester with the players who got on at various points.

"It's safe to say that the bus was a lot nicer than the ones I remember from school trips! It was quite quiet on the way up there and clearly their focus paid off.

"We then watched the game with the other fans and cheered Southend on to a superb win over the U's.

"The way back was really good as the players were all really relaxed. We sat near Anthony Grant, Damien Scannell, Osei Sankofa and Theo Robinson and chatted with them, as well as a bit with Adam Barrett and Steve Tilson.

"These guys, along with all of the players made us feel really welcome which was nice. We also tucked into some Dominos pizza's on the way back which was a good way to polish off the day!

"It was really hard to pinpoint one highlight of the day, although the atmosphere on the journey back will take some beating."

Remember, the Blues Lottery is the only way to win these types of prizes and for only £2 a week, with all proceeds going to the development of the Blues youth teams, you really are helping your Club by helping yourself.

The Lottery's next big prize is an all expenses paid trip to see the most in demand League football game in the World - Real Madrid v Barcelona on May 3^rd - worth a staggering £1,500!

For more information on joining the Blues Lottery click here. Alternatively contact the Blues Box Office on 08444 77 00 77.