IT IS the end of an era for one Three Towns youth football side.

But it has not drawn to a bitter end for TASS Thistle 2013s - quite the contrary, as they have shown exactly what the youth club is all about.

The young side, who will still continue on, have just lost nine members of their playing squad - who have all remarkably moved onto youth academy sides.

The up and coming Three Towns talents have all moved onto pastures new with pro-youth sides throughout Scotland.

Four players (Aiden, Kayden, Peter and David) have signed deals at Premiership side Kilmarnock, with a further four (Ethan, Luke, Joshua and Harlay) signing for Championship table toppers Ayr United's youth academy.

Talented Harry will be looking to follow an almost identical career path to Scotland international midfielder Billy Gilmour as he signed up with reigning Scottish Cup champions Glasgow Rangers.

And while many may be upset at seeing a talented young side, full of friends, being split apart - the club are absolutely delighted to see their players make the next step in their fledging careers.

Sharing the news on social media, a club spokesperson said: "End of an era for our 2013’s as we see nine (yes nine!) boys leave us to play academy football.

"It has been an absolute pleasure to see these boys grow, play football with a smile and enjoy their football together!

"All the very best to all the boys for the future and the smiles on the boys faces as they sign their pro youth contracts tells the story.

"Good luck boys, well deserved! Ayrshire derbies should be interesting for you in future!"

Many parents involved at the club were also quick to pay testiment to the sides coaches for the part they played in the youngster's successes.

One commented: "Well done boys! All your hard work is starting to pay off! Continue to stick in, work hard and follow your dreams!

"A testiment to the coaches, who put in so much time and effort each week for the past 4/5 years! Coaching is such an undervalued and thankless job at times!"