A FORMER Chelsea goalkeeper is to train youngsters in his home town to tie in with World Book Day.

Ross Turnbull who began his career with Newton Aycliffe Football Club is heading home on Thursday (March 5) to boost reading skills.

The former Middlesbrough, Darlington and Chelsea goalkeeper currently plays for Barnsley Football Club in Sky Bet League One.

Pupils at Newton Aycliffe’s primary schools are invited to be inspired by Mr Turnbull who is living his dream of being a professional footballer.

The youngsters are write a short story about their own hopes and wishes for the future for a World Book Day competition.

Mr Turnbull and a panel of judges will decide on the best entry. The winning pupil gets a coaching session with the goalkeeper at their school.

He said: “I spend a lot of my time travelling around the country, going to and from matches. Reading is one of the things I enjoy most to keep my mind occupied on the long journeys.”

He has teamed up with County Durham supply teaching agency SupplyMatch Recruitment for the competition.

SupplyMatch is to donate sets of books by England midfielder Frank Lampard to schools in Newton Aycliffe as part of World Book Day next Wednesday. (March 5)

Gail Anderson, managing director of SupplyMatch, said: “He thinks it is crucial young people learn to love reading

“It’s an amazing opportunity for pupils across the town to have a coaching session with a footballer

who has played in the Champions League with Chelsea.”

Schools interested in taking part should email Gail at gail@supplymatch.co.uk