YOUNG South Reading FC footballers received a surprise early Christmas gift thanks to Thames Valley accountants Vale & West.

The unexpected gift, smart new boot-bags for their New Year fixtures, came about because Reading-based Vale & West is celebrating the 125th anniversary of its foundation in 1894 as a chartered accountants’ practice.

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Vale & West staff were invited to suggest Thames Valley community activities for worthy support.

Lauren Ball, a senior accountant with the firm, didn’t have to look far.

For 17 years her recently deceased father Darren had supported South Reading FC in many club roles from Coach to President – and some ‘potential football stars of the future’ needed new boot-bags.

Darren Ball’s long, unstinting and invaluable service to South Reading FC was recognised by a commemoration on the boot-bags.

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“The success of our 125-year business has been underpinned by our service commitment to local clients, and it was only fitting in our special year that we should recognise Darren’s own individual commitment to this local club,” said Jason Pyke, lead partner of independent accountancy Vale & West.