Before 2015 the last time Reading FC reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup was in the 1926-7 season.
This rare simulated silver Huntley & Palmers biscuit tin, probably designed by N.C.Joseph Ltd., was inspired by the FA trophy. It was commissioned during Reading FC's good cup run of 1926-7 by local biscuit maker Huntley & Palmers in anticipation of victory at Wembley. Unfortunately the tin was never put into production as Reading, then known as the Biscuitmen, were beaten 3-0 in the semi-finals by eventual Cup winners Cardiff City on 26 March 1927.
The photo above, of Huntley & Palmers factory guides with a party of visitors, shows one of these tins being held aloft by one visitor who is leaning out of the cab of the locomotive. Perhaps this is the winning team on a tour? We have been assured he is not a member of the disappointed home side! However, the locomotive is one of a pair of William Bagnall fireless steam locomotives used at the factory, which were bought in 1932. So it must have been taken at least five years afterwards. If anyone knows the story behind this image, please get in touch!
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