LOWLAND LEAGUE champions Bonnyrigg Rose have cited ‘pyramid integrity’ as a driving factor behind their vote not to allow Celtic and Rangers B teams compete in the division next season, with their supporters overwhelmingly against the inclusion of ‘guest clubs’.

The club confirmed in a statement that they were one of four clubs to vote against the motion to include the sides in the league yet again next term, with 11 clubs voting in favour.

East Stirlingshire were another club to confirm their opposition to the proposals, with the original introduction of the Old Firm B teams billed as being for one season only.

The Bonnyrigg Rose statement read: “We had just over double the response of the previous season but the results were broadly similar, with over 90% voting against the motion, which is why we can confirm that we were one of the four clubs that voted against [on Monday] night.

“We published our vote result ahead of the meeting last season and for similar reasons our members rejected the motion once more. We have been consistent in our thoughts on pyramid integrity since moving back to the senior leagues in 2018, which is also why we voted in favour of additional promotion spots into the SLFL last month, which was rejected with our SLFL board member immediately resigning as a result.

“The process followed in both instances has been a democratic one and while we were on the opposite sides of both they are decisions which clubs are absolutely entitled to make.”

East Stirlingshire also confirmed that their decision had been based upon strong objections from supporters, saying in their statement: “Over the last few days we sought the views of our season ticket holders, regular supporters and sponsors as to their views about guest clubs remaining for another season beyond the initial agreement

“Our support was clear that this was NOT something they would wish to see continue. And as such we voted against the continuation for another season of guest clubs during tonight’s vote.

“We acknowledge that both guest clubs have seen major benefits to player development over the initial year and potentially the national teams as well. Our supporters are our club and we are grateful for their feedback and help in our decision making.

“We respect the vote from fellow members of the Lowland league was to continue with guest clubs and we respect that decision. We will welcome every club for the new 2022/23 season.”

Meanwhile, Hearts are now considering an application to field their own ‘colts’ team in the Lowland League following the vote to allow guest teams to participate, with no current reserve league in place for them to develop young talent and get competitive game-time for fringe players.

Both Celtic and Rangers paid £25,000 each last season in order for their colt teams to compete in the division, and it is understood that Hearts are now exploring the possibility of following suit.