FOOTBALLERS in Dawlish have welcomed three new additions to their team. 

Three international mental health nurses from Nigeria who are working with patients at Langdon Hospital in Dawlish have been put through their paces on the pitch by the team at Dawlish United Football Club. 

Bethel Amajuoyi, Caleb Ekeanyanwu and Ben Popoola are big football fans who have wanted to play since they arrived in Devon.

Within their first week at Dawlish, they went to see Exeter City play, as well as watching Nigeria in the final of the AFCON at a local sports bar.

Bethel Amajuoyi said: ‘I saw a post on our staff intranet saying Dawlish FC were needing more players.

‘We got in touch and have been welcomed with open arms!

‘Our team mates and management at Dawlish United have been so nice and welcoming to us. 

‘We travel with the team to play around Devon and it’s been a nice experience and we are blending into the community.’

Ben said: ‘It's been a really great experience having to play in a really different setting from Nigeria. 

‘It’s been a great team so far and every day is getting better and better.’

Fellow nurse Caleb said: ‘I really enjoy playing with the team. 

‘They are really such a great group and have been so accommodating to us.’

Langdon Hospital, on the outskirts of Dawlish, provides care for people with secure mental health needs. 

Formed in 1987, Dawlish United prides itself as being part of the community and has 15 teams ranging from junior to adults.