A ROYALS star proved that he’s on target even when he’s off the pitch, as he marked his first anniversary as ambassador of a young person’s charity.
This time last year, 22-year-old Tom Holmes agreed to support Berkshire Youth, helping to raise awareness of its work supporting, empowering and inspiring Berkshire’s young people.
Activities included arranging for a group of young people to take part in the half-time penalty shoot-out at Reading FC’s 150th anniversary match in February, attending football training sessions at a local club, where he presented awards to those who had raised the most money for Berkshire Youth this season.
“When Berkshire Youth first got in touch with Reading FC and Reading came to me about the idea of becoming Berkshire Youth ambassador it was a bit of a no brainer,” he said.
“Growing up in Reading, I have always felt it is my responsibility to give back and appreciate the community and area that has done so much for me and many others while growing up.”
He said that being part of the Berkshire Youth team was the perfect way to do that.
“I have really enjoyed working alongside the brilliant staff and it is clear to see what such a fantastic job they are doing with Berkshire’s ‘next generation,” he continued.
“I hope that this year is the first of many for the relationship between Reading FC and Berkshire Youth and it has been an honour to be the first ever Charity Ambassador to come from RFC to help bridge that gap between two such important cornerstones in the Berkshire area.”
And the support has been welcomed by the charity, who said they were thrilled to work with the Royal.
Its marketing manager Julie MacLean, said:“He’s a local lad and really genuine guy who the young people we work with respond really well to.
“Tom has shown huge enthusiasm for our work, is a great role model, and has been brilliant at amplifying our key messages about the importance of investing in our young people.
“We couldn’t ask for a better Charity Ambassador.”
