Some of our Royals first team stars have been taking time out to promote an unusual initiative, as club sponsors Waitrose prepare to reintroduce a forgotten footballing tradition.

The half-time orange will make its long-awaited return at the Madejski stadium this evening as Reading take on Crystal Palace. Waitrose, our proud shirt sponsors for two seasons, will hand out a whopping 15,000 orange quarters from their 'essential Waitrose' range to spur on supporters ahead of the second half.

Club mascot Kingsley will be on hand to distribute the essential half-time snack - long associated with football - as a gift from Waitrose to the loyal Royals fans. Eagles fans need not feel left out, as they too will receive the half-time refreshment.

Ahead of the clash Simon Church, Jem Karacan, Adam Federici, Brian Howard and Noel Hunt all took time out to promote the initiative, showing off a variety of tricks and skills perhaps more befitting of the big top than their Hogwood Park training ground.

Richard Hodgson, Commercial Director at Waitrose said: "It's great to be bringing back the seemingly forgotten tradition of the half-time orange at today's match. The Reading crowd have been absolutely fantastic in showing their support since we've been involved with the club, and we hope this small token of our appreciation will refresh their singing voices in preparation for the second half!"

Reading supporters will be able to vote on whether the return of the half-time orange was a success, or if they would like to see a different fruit handed out in the future, by emailing comments to oranges@readingfc.co.uk after the match.

Fans can take advantage of more than 1,400 everyday shopping items available in the new essential Waitrose range. For more information visit www.waitrose.com