Reading YMCA FC launch fundraiser after ‘devastating’ ground vandalism

Reading YMCA is halfway to a fundraising total following devastating vandalism at the clubs ‘Cauldron’ ground.

A considerable amount of pitch fencing and and the football pitch itself were vandalised, along with one of the goals on Monday 24th November 2025.

The club are currently playing away from home with the hope the damage will be repaired in time for a New Year’s return to the Padworth Village Hall site.

The clubs volunteers have been buoyed by support shown to the club from league officials who have supported fixture rearrangements, as well as all those who have made donations, which at the time of writing has reached £855 of a £1,400 target.

In 2024, the club were winners of the Matchday Experience award at Berkshire Football Awards.

A statement released by Reading YMCA at the end of last month said:

On Monday, 24th November, our football pitch and the adjacent fence were subjected to severe vandalism. This act resulted in considerable damage to the fence, the playing surface, and one of the goals. The individual responsible for this incident was identified at the scene, and a criminal investigation is currently underway. We will not be making any further comment on the circumstances surrounding the incident.

As a volunteer-led team, we devote an immense amount of time, effort, and resources into creating and maintaining what we believe is one of the finest pitches for our level in the area. Naturally, we are heartbroken by this setback. The damage caused has not only devastated the playing surface but also presents a significant financial challenge for the club, as we are now faced with the cost and logistics of making the necessary repairs.

We are currently working with the league to discuss our upcoming home fixtures while we undertake the work required to restore the pitch to an appropriate standard for play.

Despite this unfortunate event, we are determined to restore the playing area and fence. Our aim is to bring The Cauldron back to its former condition and have it ready for play in the New Year.

A GoFundMe page has been established for anyone wishing to support with the costs associated with the repairs.