Dings Crusaders RFC has been granted permission to build a new stadium.

South Gloucestershire District Council approved an application for a new rugby and community sports centre on 26 acres of land in Frenchay, on the outskirts of Bristol.

The relocation to the new £8m facility will be funded by the sale of the club’s existing ground to Redrow Homes, which plans to build 149 homes on the site.

Ray Bowden, President of Dings, said: "This is fantastic news and a major step forward for both the charity and Dings Crusaders Rugby Club after so many years of searching.

"We look forward to being a key part of the Frenchay community, but can't get carried away just yet.

"It's refreshing that people at last understand what we want to achieve and how, as a charity, we want to contribute to the community and next generation of rugby players, especially during this Rugby World Cup year."

The club’s move hinges on Redrow being granted planning permission to build homes on the old site, as well as clearance from the Secretary of State because the new development is within the green belt.