The 36-year-old played for several senior clubs, including Selkirk and Vale of Leithen, as well as being the Innerleithen amateur side’s top scorers for four seasons.

Hastie, who moved into management last summer, guided Newtown to the Beveridge Cup.

And is expected to continue the success that previous Rovers manager, Paul Graham, has brought.

Graham, who has stepped upstairs to the Leithen Rovers committee, is delighted with the appointment of his successor. He said: “We are delighted that Gary has accepted the job as manager here at Leithen Rovers.

“There are obviously a lot of changes going on at the moment, but at the same time we have to ensure that Leithen Rovers continue to challenge for honours and by appointing Gary, we feel that we can continue to do so.

“He brings a wealth of knowledge to the club - a club that he knows well after spending four years here and winning numerous trophies.

“His coaching team is yet to be finalised, but a meeting is planned for early next week for a meet and greet so everything should be in place by then.” Graham departed the manager’s seat last month by lifting the South of Scotland Cup.

And he envisages a bright future for LeithenRovers with the introduction of a second team.

He added: “We are introducing an Under 17 side, which we hope they will compete in the SBJFA this coming year with a view to entering them in the Border Amateur C Division next season. We are currently looking into this so that we can dot all the Is and cross all the Ts.

“These are exciting times for the club and we are now on a purge for new committee in order for the club to run more smoothly and we would urge anyone interested in joining the committee or indeed joining the playing side, to contact me on 07920499736.”