Phillips scored in last season's play-off final at Wembley

The Gulls have paid their Blue Square Premier rivals �17,500 for the 26-year-old, who has agreed a three-year deal at Plainmoor.

"He is a proven goalscorer and will be a big hit. This is a major signing," Buckle told the club website.

Penzance-born Phillips started his career at Plymouth and joined Exeter after a spell with Weymouth.

Buckle, who left Exeter to take charge at neighbours Torquay at the start of June, is also believed to have lodged a bid for City defender and captain Chris Todd.