THE East of Scotland Football League has confirmed that next season the League will be competed in one division of 16 clubs.

After careful consideration of all the factors, the Board decided that there were no longer enough clubs to continue with a two division structure. The Board made the decision following last week’s AGM.

League chairman Tom Allison said: “The Board met and had a long discussion and considered all the options available.

"The decision taken by the Board was not an easy one to make as we know that not all clubs are in favour of this.

"We asked the clubs at the AGM for an indication of what their view was and we had a 50/50 split. This meant the decision would have to be taken by the Board.

“We feel that by having just one division it will generate more interest in the League. Taking this decision will allow us to create more interest in the League whilst looking at ways to improve and develop the League for future seasons.

“I believe that this decision is in the best interest of all Members of the East of Scotland Football League at this current time.” The new season will kick off on August 1.

Fixtures will be issued within the next few weeks.

Meanwhile, the Lowland Football League has announced that one club has been accepted as members for next season.

Five clubs initially applied with one club withdrawing during the process.

As a result of this process we are delighted to confirm that Cumbernauld Colts have been selected to play in the league next season.

League Chairman Andrew Waddell said: “The Board looked carefully at all the applications and decided that Cumbernauld Colts should be admitted to the league.

“It was a tough decision for the Board and each applicant was assessed on its own merit.

“It’s very encouraging that so many clubs are aspiring to play in our League and have all started to take steps to achieve club licensing.”