Torquay United have claimed the Devon bragging rights by beating local rivals Exeter City 1-0 at St James Park tonight.

A first-half Rene Howe penalty was enough to separate the sides as Torquay recorded their first League Two victory in seven matches.

Midfielder Lee Mansell nearly gave the visitors an early lead but his near-post header was well saved by Exeter keeper Artur Krysiak.

Minutes later the Gulls did move ahead when Steve Tully fouled Billy Bodin in the area and Howe stepped up to convert the spot-kick - his 13th goal of the season.

The hosts introduced Jamie Cureton, who was making his 700th professional appearance, off the bench in the second period but could not find an equaliser.

Jimmy Keohane and Alan Gow were denied twice each by Torquay stopper Michael Poke as Exeter missed out on the chance to climb to third in the table.

The victory sees Torquay rise five places to 18th.