Thame United's long search for a new stadium could be over after an agreement was reached between the club and the Lord Williams's School.

The governing body of the school have decided to lend their support to the club's proposal to apply for outline planning permission for a new stadium, which would be built in the south-west corner of the school grounds.

The proposed new stadium and clubhouse would meet Ryman League requirements, while Lord Williams's School would have access to the stadium and its facilities for important fixtures and the clubhouse would accommodate an educational facility for use by local schools.

Among other plans for the site are a new cricket pavilion, changing and shower facilities, artificial cricket wicket and a floodlit all-weather sports pitch.

The club have sold their Windmill Road ground to a housing developer for more than £10m.

An interim payment cleared most of the club's debts, and they are being allowed to lease the land back for a short time.

More than ten years ago, the club sold their practice pitch for housing in a deal which allowed the present stadium's development.

But the lack of a practice pitch is now one of the reasons they want to relocate altogether.

Sally Hunt, the chief executive of Thame United, said: "Although the signing of a new lease at Windmill Road gave us a little breathing space, it was a stay of execution, not a solution."

Thame have been struggling with severe financial problems for several seasons, and it is widely believed that relocation is essential if they are to survive.

Hunt added: "There are no other relocation sites within Thame, and we are extremely grateful to the governing body at the school for working with us over the past few months to evolve a scheme that will benefit the school, the club and the community at large.

"The school's decision to support the proposals is tremendous news for the club."

Lord Williams School headteacher Michael Spencer is fully behind the proposals.

"Our status as a sports college and the work we will be doing through the local sports forum will provide effective support for many community sporting developments," he said.

Dr Anne Clark, who chairs the governors, said: "This represents a significant enhancement to our facilities and will provide substantial benefit to the school."