SOUTHEND United’s manager had his back waxed live on national television to raise money for double amputee Tracy Ralph.

Phil Brown appeared on Sky Sports News’ 92Live feature, in one of the treatment rooms of the club’s training ground, to raise money for the 35-year-old Hawkwell mum, who lost her legs after falling seriously ill.

Tracy’s sister-in-law Amanda Ralph said the family were grateful for the club drawing national attention to their cause.

So far, they have raised more than £220,000 of their £250,000 target for Tracy’s rehabilitation fund.

Amanda said: “My husband spoke with Phil Brown about this a while ago and it’s something they do every year for charity.

“This year, they decided to do it for Tracy.

“All publicity is good and if it’s going to raise more money for Tracy and her rehabilitation, then that’s always good.

“I just wish I had been there to see it, but unfortunately I was on holiday!”

Warren Lucy, communications and media manager for the club, added: “We wanted to raise awareness and money for Tracy and hopefully it being on Sky made that happen.

“We’re not sure how much has been raised just yet but we wanted to help out and this seemed a good, fun way to do it.”