ARGYLE striker Ashley Barnes has joined Devon rivals Torquay United on loan until the end of the season.

The 20-year-old had made just three starts for the Pilgrims this season and has made four appearances as substitute.

Barnes scored his second goal for the club this season, tapping in from close range in the Pilgrims' 4-1 victory over Reading in December.

Head Coach Paul Mariner was delighted that Barnsey was able to continue his development at such a key stage of his career.

He said: "He needs to get in the battle-zone. It might be best for his career. He's got a lot of attributes that you want. He is mobile and aggressive, but, like all young players, he needs to work on his awareness and his first touch - you could say that about every player walking.

"He is at a stage where it is probably a good idea for him to go out and hopefully be a star down there. He's played in our first team and scored this season, so he's coming along."