A GROUP of Reading FC fans will be paying a special tribute to a lifelong supporter who died recently when Royals take on Huddersfield Town on Monday.

Gary Purser passed away following heart surgery on May 16, the day Reading beat Fulham in the play-off semi final second leg to seal their place in the Wembley final.

Purser was a staunch Royals supporters, former Supporters Trust at Reading (STAR) board member and ex-Chronicle Royals pundit. He was just 45 when he died.

Now many of his friends from his local pub, The Prince of Wales in Caversham, are planning to wear specially-made Reading shirts with 'Purser' and '45' on the back to Monday's final.

Reading Chronicle:

Gary Purser's friends will wear shirts like this to Wembley on Monday.

His pal, Patrick Burke, explained: "Gary was a massive Reading fan who passed away after heart surgery the morning we beat Fulham.

"Gary, also known as GP, Gaz and Gazza, was adored by thousands of Reading fans.

"Gary’s mum, Glenn, lost her only daughter to a brain haemorrhage when she was still a teenager, then she lost her husband over a year ago, and now her only son.

"It’s been a very sad emotional week for all of Gary’s family and friends, but the thousands of tributes posted on social media is a testament to the kind, loving and gentle soul that he was."

He added: "Gary’s local pub is a lovely community pub in Caversham called the Prince of Wales.

"Many of Gary’s friends and fellow Reading FC fans will be travelling to Wembley next Monday wearing their Reading shirts with Purser and 45 on the back."

Reading Chronicle:

Gary's friends are also holding a barbecue at the Prince of Wales in Caversham this Saturday, with all proceeds going to Heart Research UK.

His funeral will take place at Reading Crematorium, Henley Road, Caversham on Friday, June 2 at 1.45pm.

His family have requested a blue and white theme on the day and Reading FC shirt are welcome, though no jeans and trainers. Flowers from family only.

Donations can be made to the family's chosen charity, Heart Research UK, though AB Walker Funeral Directors quoting Gary Douglas Purser.

The wake will be at the Caversham Working Mens' Club. All are welcome.