Five years ago, Reading basked in the sunshine just like it is today and friends and families had gathered in Reading’s Forbury Gardens, regarded by many as the town’s back garden to enjoy the easing of lockdown restrictions, unaware it would soon be the scene of one of the town’s darkest days.

What unfolded was a callous act which saw six innocent people brutally attacked, sending shockwaves not only through Reading City Football Club but the diverse cultural community of Reading, which we’re proud to be at the heart of.

Those responsible for the atrocity sought to divide our wonderful community, the reaction however was quite the opposite, as Reading was defiant in the face of terror, with the community proudly demonstrating strength and unity in the days and weeks after the attack.

Forbury Gardens has been a focal point of Reading since the 18th century &  is home to Reading’s most iconic monument, The Maiwand Lion, which is proudly featured on our club badge.

The iconic monument, which stands proudly in the centre of Forbury Gardens soon became a symbol following the terror attack  as just like a Lion the community continued to roar and remain strong, reminding those who seek to divide us, that they will fail, as united we stand, divided we fall.

Five years may have passed, but the events of that fateful day will forever be etched in to our hearts.

The thoughts of everyone at Reading City Football Club are with the families, friends and all those who knew James Furlong, Joe Ritchie-Bennett and David Wails who tragically lost their lives.

Our thoughts also remain with with the survivors and the brave and courageous emergency services personnel who ran towards danger, whilst others ran away.

Tonight, we will once again come together as a community to reflect and remember the innocent victims.