Caring football coach Levie Charles is putting something back into the community that benefits young children — both their physical health and also their mental wellbeing — with the help of generous businesses.

Levie, a level 2 DBS qualified FA coach, and Mansfield-based AS Plant Ltd, created a new free initiative, offering hours of fun football over the summer months.

Levie Charles Free Football For All takes place at the King George V Park, Mansfield, every Thursday during the summer.

“Far too many children spend too much time sat indoors in front of the TV or behind a gaming station,” he said.

“National lockdown certainly had an on the impact of the health and wellbeing of our population and this will give young children from the Mansfield area a chance to get out, get active, and start socialising again.

“The first session was attended by a group of strangers turning up to play football. They left as friends and now we have a team! The response has been overwhelming.”

Scott Westwood, director at Smart Digital Business Solutions, Shirebrook, saw Levie’s social media appeal asking for help with buying footballs, training cones, football kits and bibs.

The businessman immediately agreed to help and bought a bag of footballs.

“When I read about this new concept that Levie has created — in his spare time with financial costs for himself — I knew instantly that I wanted to show support and gratitude for what this man is doing for the younger generation,” said Scott.

“It is totally inspirational. Wherever Smart Digital can help, then we will.”

Levie Charles Free Football For All takes place every Thursday throughout the summer at King George V Park, Black Scotch Lane, Mansfield. It runs from 6pm to 7pm for five and six year-olds, and from7pm to 8pm for 10 to 11-year-olds.

If anyone or any local businesses would like to help, get in touch with Levie Charles via Facebook or Smart Digital Business Solutions via [email protected]