GALA'S new manager was officially unveiled on Wednesday evening.

Neil Hastings was appointed as the successor to Dean Shanks at Netherdale.

The 27-year-old will be joined in the Gala Fairydean Rovers dug-out by his former Livingston FC colleague Eddie Mangan, who is taking over the role as head coach.

Former Fairydean Rovers defender Shane Greene, who is the club's current Under 15s coach, has been confirmed as club's new Director of Football.

Hastings was head of youth and a first team coach at Livingston.

And more recently assistant manager at both Cowdenbeath and Berwick Rangers.

Neil told the Border Telegraph: "I am delighted to be given the opportunity to take the club forward and want to continue to build on the work that has been done at the club over the last few years.

"I am under no illusions of how competitive the Lowland League is going to be this year, especially when you look at some of the signings the other clubs have already made.

"I want to build an energetic and young hungry squad that entertains the fans with a style of play and also create a team that the town can be proud of.

"I can't wait for the pre-season to start so we can get onto the training pitch and start working towards the first league game."

The appointment has been welcomed by Gala Fairydean Rovers Ambassador of Football John Collins, who knows Neil from his time at Livingston.

Collins told us: "Neil was part of our coaching team at Livingston when I was the Director of Football there.

"He was involved in the Under 17s and Reserves and often assisted with the first team as a coach.

"Neil is an excellent coach and has a good way about him.

"He coaches nice, attractive football and I think he will be an excellent signing for Gala Fairydean Rovers.

"I look forward to seeing his team playing next season."