READING FC have issued a weather update ahead of tomorrow's home clash with Aston Villa following heavy snow in the region.

Royals are due to host Villa at Madejski Stadium, with a 3pm kick off.

But the wintry conditions which have left most of Berkshire under several inches of snow and have forced the closure of hundreds of schools is clearly a concern.

Reading's groundstaff aided by club employees including chief executive, Nigel Howe, have been busy clearing the snow away at the ground and Hogwood Park training ground.


And so far the club insists there is no reason to fear the game will be postponed.

A club statement says:

"With snow falling around Reading and the Berkshire area, we wish to keep our supporters regularly updated with how it could affect their trip to Saturday’s game against Aston Villa at Madejski Stadium.

"As of Friday morning, things are in good shape. Most of the surrounding areas around Madejski Stadium are clear and everywhere will be clear by the end of the day – presuming there is no more heavy snow, as currently forecast.


"The pitch is largely unaffected. There is a coating of snow – however, the undersoil heating and light rigs mean that the pitch will be entirely clear by midday.


"The current forecast from the Met Office is not anticipating any more snow after midday on Friday. It is also not predicting temperatures to drop below freezing. By around midday on Saturday it is predicted to be sunny and 3°C.

"Although the snow will be clear, supporters are advised that car parks and routes approaching the ground will be very wet and slushy – so extra precautions should be taken, and please wrap up warm in extra layers and wear appropriate footwear for the conditions.

"With all of this in mind, there is currently no reason for tomorrow’s game to be in doubt as things stand, unless conditions deteriorate and the forecast changes. Our stadium staff are closely observing the forecast."

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