THREE NEW ARRIVALS

East Stirlingshire FC has announced the first new signings for the 2008/09 season.

Three players have made pre-contract agreements for the forthcoming campaign.

Experienced goalkeeper John Hillcoat will join the club from Stenhousemuir. John is a player who has more than ten years of experience in the senior game having played for a good number of clubs over that decade.

Dumbarton, Queen of the South and Stranraer are just three of his stop off points in his career which includes spells in higher divisions than the one he will play in next season.

The club is also pleased to announce the arrival of striker Colin Cramb.

The 33 year old played in more than 20 First Division matches last season with Stirling Albion and was sought after by a number of clubs.

Cramb's threat as a goalscorer helped steer Albion into the promotion play-offs a year ago. He also has a wealth of experience in the English lower leagues with the likes of Bristol City and Doncaster Rovers.

He even experienced life on the contient with two seasons at Dutch Eredivisie side, Fortuna Sittard.

The third new arrival is 19 year old Dundee United reserve team player, Sean Anderson.

The former Celtic youth team midfielder comes highly rated and is hoping to make a big impression on the Third Division.

In addition, coach Jim McInally has signed three of last season's squad on new deals. They are Derek Ure, Marc McKenzie and Dean Richardson.

Andrew Brand and Andy Rodgers are both currently under contract until May 2009.

A number of players have been allowed to leave the club. They are Greig Mitchell, Norrie McIntyre, Scott McDonald, Willie McLachlan, Alan Wilson and Graham Smith.

Shire stalwart, Carl Thywissen, will not be re-joining the club next season. Carl, a fans' favourite for the past four campaigns, is leaving Scotland in August to live in Sweden.

An offer of a new contract has been made to Craig Donaldson, Gary Kelly, Gordon Moffat, Stephen Oates and Joe Savage.