Reading FC fan Tom Williams has launched a new LGBTQ+ fan group ‘Proud Royals’ to promote inclusivity for Royals fans.
Tom, who is also a matchday stand supervisor at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, has received overwhelming support from the club, fan groups and supporters since setting up the group.
The aim of the group is to improve the experience of supporting football clubs for LGBTQ+ supporters and offer them a place to communicate and gain support if needed.
“The response in the last few days has been amazing,” said Tom to the Reading FC official website.
“Especially from other LGBT groups who have messaged offering their support to us, also STAR (Supporters Trust at Reading) have been lending a hand in giving me great support and advice.
“The response from Reading has been absolutely fantastic.
“Every single club in the EFL near enough has an LGBT following.
“I have had messages of support from The Tilehurst End, Club 1871 and STAR.
“I want to bring all our fans together, whether they’re gay or straight, as well all love the same things, football and Reading FC.
“The aim is to raise awareness, not just around homophobic abuse, it can be anything.”
The group is currently managed solely by Tom, but he is seeking for fellow fans to become members or volunteers in the coming months.
