Robinson Reed Layton, the independent firm of Chartered Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisers based in Cornwall, have sponsored rising local football star Marcello Jones to take part in his team’s recent tour to America.

Marcello, 18, is currently a part of the Chelsea FC Foundation development setup at Truro College, having previously been a part of the AC Milan academy.

The trip to America came fresh off the back of a successful season in the National Football Youth League (U19) South West Division, in which Marcello finished as top scorer, helping the college to top the table.

The team were then invited to participate in the Dallas Cup, a tournament hosting 184 teams from five continents, with representative teams from some of the most recognisable names in global football including Ajax, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Liverpool.

Due to the costs of the trip, sponsorship was required to help fund the players travelling to America and taking part in the tournament – this is where Robinson Reed Layton offered to support Marcello’s ambitions.

Simon Reed, Partner at Robinson Reed Layton, explained: “When Marcello contacted us and explained what the sponsorship was for, I was delighted we had the opportunity to help him and his team mates take this once in a lifetime opportunity.”

The Truro College team reached the semi-finals, succumbing to their opposition in a tense match which was settled in extra time, with the Cornish side falling just short.

Marcello was delighted to have been able to take part in the trip, stating: “I’m so grateful to Robinson Reed Layton and all of our sponsors, without whom this trip wouldn’t have been possible. My ambition is to one day go on and play football professionally, so hopefully the Dallas Cup will lead to more opportunities.”

Simon further commented: “Not only is Marcello an exceptionally talented young man, I was also struck by how polite and gracious he is. I wish him all the best with his footballing career.”