A young Reading FC volunteer was honoured in front of some top names from the world of football at a high profile ceremony held at Wembley Stadium.

Robert East, age 20, a volunteer on our ground-breaking Kickz project scooped the Volunteer of the Year Award at the first-ever Kickz Awards, held at Wembley Stadium.

Robert was presented with his award by former England striker Les Ferdinand and Terry Ryall, Chief Executive of v, the Youth volunteering charity.

At half time during our game with Southampton Robert was congratulated by Chairman John Madejski.

Paul Thorogood, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation, said: "Our heartfelt congratulations go to Robert East. The dedication he has shown in volunteering and acting as a role model for his peers shows a commendable ambition.

"Robert East is but one example of thousands of success stories from Kickz projects across the country. Kickz has now engaged over 18,000 young people through the power of sport and music, making communities stronger and safer in the process."

Key figures from the world of football, sport and politics joined 200 young people from some of the most challenging communities across the country for the Kickz Awards.

The event showcased the most inspiring individuals that have made a difference to their community as part of the programme. Kickz has over 18,000 registered participants aged 12-18 living in tough areas, with high rates of crime. 39 professional football clubs from the Premier League and Football League are delivering over 100 projects in partnership with the Police and local authorities across the country.

Kickz uses the power of football to 'build safer, stronger, more respectful communities through the development of young people's potential'. A variety of activities including football, other sports, music, arts and developmental workshops on issues ranging from healthy lifestyles to the dangers of carrying weapons are delivered three nights a week, all year round.