FOUR small West Devon schools have combined forces to create sports teams that can compete against larger schools.

Boasley Cross, Bridestowe, Exbourne and Lydford primary schools have created the Dartmoor Federation, where children from all four schools can come together to create a team for various sports.

Mike Brady, head of the Dartmoor federation, said: 'This is a wonderful opportunity for our four small schools. It can often be difficult to provide sports teams to compete against larger schools but collectively we can compete on a regular basis.

'We are delighted to have been accepted into a local schools' league for football and netball fixtures.

'Children, including some very talented, can now aspire to represent the federation. Our opening fixtures were a great success and the enthusiasm from the children is infectious — they are so keen to take part. Working collaboratively was at the centre of the formation of the Dartmoor Federation and it is such a pleasure to see the tangible benefits for the pupils.'