A MORTON masterclass is being delivered to almost 1,000 budding young footballers in nurseries across Inverclyde every week to help them stay fit and healthy.

Greenock Morton Community Trust (GMCT) is delivering coaching sessions at children’s centres throughout the district, from Kilmacolm right down to Wemyss Bay.

The Micro Morton ‘physical literacy programme’ is aimed at two to four year-olds in a bid to get them active and enjoying exercise at an earlier age.

Over 900 youngsters are taking part every week, learning fundamental movement skills with a football and Morton theme.

Among the 10 centres taking part are Aileymill Nursery in Greenock, Binnie Street Children’s Centre in Gourock and Wemyss Bay Nursery Class.

The Tele went along to sessions at all three as energetic youngsters threw themselves into the fun-filled activities laid on by GMCT’s expert coaches.

Brian McLaughlin, the trust’s community engagement manager, said: “We’re reaching 931 children a week and the feedback we’ve been getting is excellent.

“Out of all the nurseries, 10 have so far signed up throughout Inverclyde.

“We are working on movement skills with structured warm-ups and fun games related to football.

“But it’s about getting children used to those habits for any sport later in life.” The Aileymill sessions had a special twist, with parents and grandparents joining in with the youngsters as coach Paddy McAlees put them through their paces.

It came after several weeks of regular sessions and staff at the Larkfield nursery say they can already see a huge difference in the children in a short space of time.

They have given the programme a glowing report card.

Kay Anderson, acting lead practioner at the nursery, said: “Now when we take the children to the gym we can see how it has helped.

“Their listening skills and ability to follow instructions have both improved.

“The sessions have been a great success.

“I think the parents coming along made it special as well because they were getting involved with the children and everyone had fun.” See today's Tele for full pictures.