Neilston co-manager Martin Campbell has hailed his side’s capture of former Arthurlie defender Mark Blakey as they get set to begin life in the new West Region Championship.

Blakey, son of current Arthurlie president David, arrives with plenty of experience having once been tipped to be the cornerstone of the Dunterlie Park side’s defence.

The 27-year-old left-back spent part of last season at Beith Juniors but Campbell insists his experience will be crucial next season.

He said: “That’s why we’ve brought him in. We feel we’ve got quite a young side and with us taking the step up, we’ll be looking for that extra bit of experience and boys that can bring that to us.

“With him being used to that sort of level from the league above we’re hoping he can push us on. That’s the kind of player we’re trying to target at the moment.

“We identified Mark a while ago and he will certainly bring that experience and some quality to the team. We’re delighted we managed to bring him in.”

Campbell along with fellow co-manager John-Paul Dow helped the Brig O’ Lea club secure promotion with a dramatic play-off win against Shettleston earlier this month and they both know it’s vital to bring in players with experience of playing at a higher level.

He said: “I don’t want to mention any names right now but hopefully we can get a few in. I’ll be speaking to a midfielder and another defender this week so we’ll hopefully have answers on them. They’ve both played at a higher level so that’s what we’re targeting.”