Sidmouth and Ottery Hockey Club have been awarded funding to purchase junior facemasks.

The equipment will be used by younger members of the club during matches and tournaments to ensure their safety when taking short corners.

One of the players said: "It is so reassuring to have the face masks; I feel much safer now."

England Hockey strongly recommends the use of face masks for all age groups and playing formats when defending a penalty corner.

However, due to their high cost, not all parents can afford to buy them.

Katie Dean, the playing committee chair, said: "It is so important that all junior club members get the chance to play in all positions, and the purchase of the masks makes this possible for all young members.

"We are very grateful to the Keith Owen Fund for their support of the club."