JUNIOR football teams in Ayrshire could soon join the pyramid system towards professional football after a statement from the two footballing bodies indicated that they wish to start a West of Scotland League.

The statement, which was published this afternoon and signed by George Fraser (Chairperson,SLFL), and John Greenhorn (Chairperson, EoSFL) reads:

"It is with regret that recent talks at the Pyramid Working Group (PWG) ended without any consensus on a way forward for the introduction of a West of Scotland League at Tier 6.

"The Scottish Lowland Football League (SLFL) and East of Scotland Football League (EoSFL) are strongly committed to the principle of having a structure in place that allows clubs from all parts of the country to find their level in Scottish football.

"Both Leagues fully support the expansion of the Pyramid in a constructive and orderly way that allows this to happen.

"The current system works well for clubs in the East and South of the Lowland League catchment area however there is an obvious gap in the West of the country, both Leagues feel strongly that a West of Scotland league at tier 6 is therefore required to allow clubs in all grades within that area the opportunity to participate in the Pyramid should they so wish.

"As a result, we now plan to take the process forward, respecting the interests of all clubs and bodies but ensuring that every club in the Lowland area has opportunity to progress through the Pyramid."