There was a double boost for 'Loons' officials and supporters last night as the players began pre-season training in the idyllic setting at Aberdour Amateurs ground.

Prior to that opening session eleven of last season's promotion winning squad put pen to paper on new one year contracts joining Jamie Bishop, Mark McCulloch, Barry Sellars and Chris Templeman who were already under contract for the season ahead.

The players who signed up for the club's return to Second Division football after a three year absence were Darren Brady, hopeful of returning from long term injury before the end of the pre-season fixtures, Iain Campbell, Ross Campbell, Alistair Divine, Martyn Fotheringham, Graham Gibson, David Mowatt, Calum Smith, Andy Tod, Stephen Tulloch and Paul Watson.

They are joined by the only newcomer to date defender Michael Bolochoweckyj, the former East Stirling defender who has also signed a one year deal.

Kevin Fotheringham is also expected to add to the number of contracted players at Thursday evening's second training session.

There was even better news later in the evening when Manager Dick Campbell confirmed in a phone call to Chairman Neill Wilson that despite press speculation linking him with the vacant Cowdenbeath manager's position, he would be remaining at the helm at Station Park. It is believed that Dick had brief discussions with representatives of the Central Park club looking for a replacement for Danny Lennon before making his most welcome decision.

The Chairman added that he was delighted and relieved with the news and like all involved in the club was looking forward in a positive manner to the start of the season in just over two weeks time.

On the playing front the Manager hopes to have news of the signing on loan of a goalkeeper from a top Premier League club in the not to distant future, following Euan McLean's decision not to take up an offer made by the club.

Obviously other small additions will have to be made to the squad ahead of the opening competitive action at the Forthbank Stadium on July 31st 2010.