'A FANTASTIC outfit, and one I will help in any way I can' — the words of Central Devon MP Mel Stride, who has thrown his support behind Okehampton Rugby Club's search to find new training pitches.

Mr Stride visited the club last Friday to attend a meeting with club officials and town councillors to discuss the urgent need for new pitches.

The club has been searching for new pitches for around ten years, and now needs an appropriate place for youth teams to train after they were told to stop using land at Brightley.

Mr Stride said: 'I jumped at the chance to come to Okehampton Rugby Club, as it is clearly a fantastic club that supports a lot of people here.

'Sport is hugely important for adults and children alike, and something that we need to support as much as possible. The club benefits hundreds of youngsters and many adults too, and is a wonderful thing.

'As an MP, I have influence and the ability to meddle and try to stir people into action. The most important thing though is that the club engages with local authorities and councils, and they have a good dialogue going forward.