ONE of the most amazing eras in the history of Premier Division champions Beith Juniors is coming to an end.

Three players have confirmed they are hanging up their boots - legendary goalkeeper Stephen "Shay" Grindlay, who saved two penalties in the 2015-16 Scottish Junior Cup final, veteran defender Mark McLaughlin and star striker Kenny McLean, who scored 201 goals in 11 seasons at Bellsdale Park.

Tommy Martin and Jamie McLaughlin are also leaving as they are out of contract.

But new players are coming in as manager Johnny Millar strengthens the squad.

Coach Tam Miller said: "Shay's announcement took us by surprise but that's what he wants to do. Mark also wants to retire and Kenny wants to take time out as his wife is expecting their fourth child. The players will all be missed. Kenny, Shay and Tommy were all in the starting line-up in the team who won the Scottish Junior Cup two years ago and there will be a huge void to fill - they will be hard to replace. Jamie needs game time and more minutes which he could not get here."

But with players going out from the Mighty, who also won the Evening Times Champions' Cup last year, three new faces have already come in.

Central defender Kevin Green has been snapped up from Queens Park.

He previously featured in the Super Premier Division with Rob Roy, whom he joined Queens Park from at the start of 2017-18, and Arthurlie.

Millar added: "Kevin is an experienced player and can play as a left centre back or also in midfield. He will be a good addition to the squad."

Also joining the squad is John Middleton, who featured in three games last season, and was signed up from Barrhead Under-21s.

The coach said: "John is a good prospect who comes from Under-21s and we will work closely with him."

Standout signing is surely defender Steven Noble, who can play in central defence or midfield.

Added Miller: "Steven has a lot of experience and was captain of Peterhead for two years so I expect him to be a good signing and an important player.

"We are hoping to bring in some more new signings in the next few weeks as we have to strengthen the squad."