The club announced on October 23 that Leah Spratley-Kemp had died suddenly on September 22, describing her as a dedicated competitor, valued teammate and an inspiration to fellow athletes.

Following in the footsteps of her father, Nigel, a former Great Britain shot putter and long-serving club member, she joined Reading AC in 2012 and specialised in the hammer, discus and shot put.

The club said: “Leah was a brilliant team player.

“Even as a junior, she regularly stepped up to represent the club in senior league matches, always willing to put her hand up whenever needed.

“Her hard work brought significant success, winning numerous Berkshire County medals and earning five county titles: Shot Put champion in 2013, 2016, and 2018; Hammer champion in 2016; and Discus champion in 2024.

“A particular highlight came in 2017, when she was selected to represent Berkshire in the Shot Put at the prestigious English Schools’ Championships in Birmingham.”

In a tribute, Reading AC praised Leah's loyalty and willingness to represent the club whenever needed.

They added: “Leah’s contribution to Reading AC will not be forgotten, and her dedication remains an inspiration to us all.

“Our thoughts are with Nigel, mum Janine, brother Alex and sister Kira at this difficult time.”