Chris Martin gives 10 per cent of his million pound earnings to charity.

Chris Martin

Chris Martin

The Coldplay frontman's mother Alison kept back 1p of his 10p pocket money while he was growing up to teach him the importance of sharing and it seems the life lesson has stuck with him as he now makes sure he gives away some of his income to help others.

Appearing on Australian television show 'Today' this week with his band mate Jonny Buckland, the guitarist said: "Ten per cent of Chris' pocket money goes to charity."

Chris - who is worth an estimated £70 million - added: "I used to get 10 pence pocket money. The first time she gave me nine, I was like, 'What is this?' [And my mum was like], 'Get used to it, son.' Mum still gives me three pounds a week."

And the 39-year-old hunk's generosity has rubbed off on his bandmates as they now also give away ten per cent of their cash to 28 different charities every month.

Chris explained: "It's very important for us [to give money to charity regularly]. It drives us on. We don't talk about it that much but you asked. It is true!"

And the hunky rocker is no doubt determined to drill that kind of life lesson into his children Apple, 12, and Moses, 10, whom he has with his ex-wife Gwyneth Paltrow, when they start earning their own money.

But they may have to wait a little while to see the cash flowing as him and Gwyneth refuse to give the youngsters pocket money.

Asked if he or the 44-year-old actress - who "consciously uncoupled" in 2014 - would perform at their children's birthday party, Chris reportedly said previously: "We are too expensive for our kids' parties. We cost about 50 pounds for an hour, and we don't give them any pocket money. Until they can afford it, we won't play for them."