Woodley faced demotion from Step Six of the Football Association’s National League System because facilities at East Park Farm did not meet new ground-grading criteria.

So in order to remain in the Hellenic Football League, Woodley will relocate to Scours Lane for three years from the start of next season.

And as Scours Lane meets Step Five standards with floodlights and covered stands, Woodley can also enter a team into the FA Vase for the very first time.

Woodley Town chairman Mark Rozzier said: “We are delighted to have signed this deal as it allows us to preserve Hellenic League football in Woodley while progressing discussions to develop new facilities in Woodley as part of our commitment to strengthen the role that football plays in our local community.

“We are also thankful to Roland Ford and Reading Town FC for their support in enabling this ground share to happen.”

Reading Town chairman Roland Ford stated: “We are delighted to offer Woodley Town FC our facilities to enable them to plan for the future and maintain their status in the pyramid system. This partnership will help both clubs as the income will enable us to improve our ground and ensure our future because football at this level is a major financial draw, and by fully utilising our ground, it will give both clubs a brighter future.”

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