ALBION’s Adam Webster and Chelsea star Mason Mount are among the Premier League footballers limbering up to take part in an online charity workout.

Gavin Dutton, a youth football coach from Chichester, set up Zoom Ballers during the first coronavirus lockdown in March last year, as a means of keeping in touch players from his Chichester City Youth team.

When the latest lockdown was announced, he decided to open the sessions up to local children to help keep them active and engaged in sport.

The Argus: Everton's Michael Keane chatting to Zoom Baller pupil, Zach.Everton's Michael Keane chatting to Zoom Baller pupil, Zach.

Since the free online sessions began, Gavin has enlisted the help of some of the Premier League’s biggest names to help him run the daily fitness sessions.

Everton footballer Michael Keane dialled in on Friday, January 22 to host a question and answer session with the children.

Gavin said that keeping children engaged in sport during lockdown is vital for their mental health and development.

He said: “There has been a lot of talk about children’s mental health during the pandemic, with schools being closed and sporting, social and leisure activities unable to take place.

The Argus: Gavin, a youth football coach, said he wants to support charities in Sussex through Zoom Ballers.Gavin, a youth football coach, said he wants to support charities in Sussex through Zoom Ballers.

“Some young people are really struggling during lockdown, and parents too as it’s hard to know how to motivate youngsters.

“I wanted to stay in touch with my youth teams and continue training, so had to think outside the box. I also know how challenging it is for charities right now, so wanted to do something to help them too.”

The sessions are free to children between the ages of six and 15, but parents are encouraged to make a charitable donation.

Gavin and his wife Kerry selected The Sussex Snowdrop Trust as one of their chosen charities after the it supported them after the death of their son Luke, who was stillborn in 2009.

Chestnut Tree House’s children’s hospice and the Teenage Cancer Trust will also receive donations.

Tracey Shaw from Chestnut Tree House said: “We are so grateful to Gavin and Kerry for choosing us as one of the beneficiary charities.

“Zoom Ballers is a wonderful initiative to engage children during lockdown, keeping them active at a time when many of their usual activities aren’t possible. F

“Fundraising has been challenging during the pandemic and support from our local community has been invaluable.

“But this is about so much more than that, as we hope that Zoom Ballers will also help to raise awareness of Chestnut Tree House and the importance of children’s hospice care.

“Thank you to everyone who has donated and got involved – it really does make a difference.”

Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount will be joining Zoom Ballers for a live question and answer session after the 5pm training session on Tuesday, February 2.