East of Scotland League to become one division of 16 clubs

The decision was made by the board following last night’s annual general meeting after a vote among members clubs proved inconclusive.

Premier Division runners-up Easthouses Lily resigned as members to join the junior ranks, which left 16 clubs.

The season just finished had a nine-team Premier Division, and an eight-team First Division.

All 16 clubs voted, eight of them favouring for two divisions and eight preferring one division.

The decision effectively means Coldstream have been saved from relegation after finishing bottom of the Premier Division.

League chairman Tom Allison said: “Last night the board met and had a long discussion and considered all the options available.

“The decision taken 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 the August 1, 2015. Fixtures will be issued within the next few weeks.