Reading given anti-racism award

Cameroon international Andre Bikey has backed the club's stance (Getty)

Reading have been awarded the preliminary level of Kick It Out's Racial Equality Standard.

The standard aims to help clubs deal with race related issues across many areas, from stewarding to recruitment of young players.

Chairman John Madejski said: "We are committed to engaging closely with all sectors of our local community.

"Sport can act as a catalyst for eradicating racist behaviour and beliefs from the wider society."

Reading's Cameroon international defender, Andre Bikey, recently spoke of his experiences with racism while playing in Russia.

He backed the club's progress and said: "English football has made great strides in combating discrimination, other nations should follow its lead."