LONG-serving Cherries defender Neil Young has surprisingly joined Blue Square Premier side Weymouth on a month's loan.

The fans' favourite, who has made more than 400 appearances in a 13-year career at Dean Court, links up with former team-mate Jason Tindall, Weymouth's manager.

Cherries boss Kevin Bond said the move would allow the experienced campaigner to get some game time under his belt.

"He hasn't had a run of games and he needs games," said Bond. We've got no reserve games (coming up) as such so it's a great opportunity to get some games under his belt."

The 34-year-old, who has featured in just four League One matches for Cherries this season, has also been given permission to play in Weymouth's FA Cup first round tie at Eastbourne Borough next week.

Tindall described Young as "a leader" after completing the signing.

"It is not very often that a club like Weymouth can sign a player of the quality and experience of Neil Young," the Weymouth boss told the Dorset Daily Echo.