The Supporters’ Trust at Reading (STAR) has paid tribute to a number of former club employees affected by recent redundancies, describing them as “exceptional servants” of the Royals.
STAR said a number of redundancies had been made public in recent weeks but stressed that it would not normally comment on staffing decisions.
The independent supporters’ trust said it had “no knowledge of how or why these decisions were made” and recognised that redundancies could be a necessary part of running a business.
However, STAR said those affected in the latest round had played a particularly important role at Reading during some of the club’s most difficult years.
One of those made redundant was Chief Revenue Officer, Tim Kilpatrick, who had been at the club
In a statement, the trust said: “However, the individuals who left the club in this round were exceptional servants of Reading Football Club.
“People who went the extra mile in our darkest period and in doing so, forged closer bonds with the fanbase than perhaps would normally be expected.”
“You know who you are (and we know you’re on social media!) so we just wanted to say thank you and wish you all the best for the future,” the trust said.
It ended the message with its traditional sign-off: “Up the Ding.”
The redundancies come during a period in which some Reading supporters have become increasingly critical of the club’s ownership.
American businessman Rob Couhig completed his takeover of Reading in May 2025, bringing an end to a prolonged period of uncertainty over the club’s future.
While Couhig’s arrival was initially welcomed by many supporters following years of financial difficulties, there has been criticism from some fans in recent weeks over decisions made by the club and its running off the pitch.
The latest redundancies have added to that discussion, although STAR was careful not to criticise the ownership or suggest it knew the reasons behind the staffing decisions.
The trust explicitly said: “This is not normally something we would pass comment on.”
“Redundancies can be a necessary part of business and we have no knowledge of how or why these decisions were made.”
For the individuals affected, STAR also recognised that the situation could be “a deeply personal and private moment”.
Couhig has previously spoken about the need for Reading to improve its financial position while also investing in the club.
In an open letter to supporters in April, the chairman said the club would carry out a “full review from top to bottom” at the end of the season, including its structure, squad and standards.
He said decisions would be guided by what was best for the club “both competitively and financially”.
