Gillingham have handed professional deals to five second-year scholars.

Keeper Daren Hawkes, defenders Jack Evans and Callum Davies (pictured) and midfielders Alex Brown and Tom Brunt will all turn pro with the Gills at the start of next season.

First team boss Andy Hessenthaler believes the current crop of youngsters have a lot to offer and there is even more to come.

“The chairman has agreed we can take five and that is good news for the future of Gillingham Football Club,” said Hessenthaler.

“This is a really strong group and there are good ones in the year below and the year below that is even stronger.

“It is testament to the strength of our youth set-up and the work that Darren Hare and Bryan Bull have put in.”

The Gills were unable to offer all of the second year youngsters a deal and will be releasing James Brown, Sam Fisher and Ryan Benniman.

“I would love them to go away, get regular football and then come back,” said Hessenthaler.