Premier League serves up new sport

London's top football clubs are helping schoolchildren to get into sport - through table tennis.

Premier League sides including Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham have provided equipment and sent players to meet pupils in the hope of igniting their passion for sport.

On Saturday the 20 top division clubs, represented by teams of four youngsters, took part in the national Fred Perry Urban Cup tournament. The Premier League's involvement has pulled in thousands of new players.

Former Arsenal defender Nigel Winterburn said: "I think it's a great way for kids to socialise with mates away from video games, improve hand-eye co-ordination and get them active and competitive."

Current Arsenal vice-captain Robin van Persie has played the sport since he was a child. He boasted: "I'm the best table tennis player on the team - I've played all of them and beat them all."