Cash-strapped Mounts Bay have been handed a last-minute lifeline by Redruth RFC that has saved the club from potential collapse.

Mounts Bay announced last week that they might have to fold after their financial situation became untenable.

The two clubs have agreed a player and ground-sharing deal, with Redruth's development squad playing for Mounts Bay in National Two South next season.

Mounts Bay will play all of their home games at Redruth's Recreation Ground.

However, Reds director of rugby Dave Penberthy has been quick to dismiss suggestions of a merger.

"Mounts Bay have to remain a separate entity," Penberthy told BBC Spotlight. "It won't have any impact on our own financial situation."

Debt nearing £26,000 was one of the reasons Mounts Bay have been forced into the deal with Redruth, but Bay's former president Michael Leah said they have been able to reduce it in recent weeks.

"That debt remains with the limited company." said Leah. "But I can confirm that the debt has been considerably reduced since it was last publicised.

"I can't really say by how much at the moment, but I can certainly say that it's been at least halved."

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Further details of the deal between the two clubs are expected next week when both sides hold a committee meeting.

Redruth have an executive meeting on Monday, while Mounts Bay are holding their Annual General Meeting next Thursday.

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