TITLE-winner Barry Fleeting will be a major asset to Kilwinning Rangers after it was confirmed he was returning to Abbey Park for a third time.

That was the message this week from Buffs boss Chris Strain after the midfielder, who was with Dalry Thistle last season, took on the role of assistant manager with his hometown club.

The news came after it was confirmed that Jim MacLeod was stepping down from his role as the number two owing to work commitments.

Fleeting said: "I am really looking forward to working with Barry. He has a lot of experience and also has good ideas about helping take the club forward. Barry played with us us a couple of seasons ago and knows the guys here."

Meanwhile Irvine Vics chairman Rab Hanvey announced he was stepping down from his post after five years in the role on Saturday.

Secretary David Loach said: "Rab has resigned for personal reasons. There has been no fall-out. Rab has been with the club during our most successful spell and we wish him well."

The club return to training tomorrow (Wednesday) and a number of new faces are expected, although no signings have yet been confirmed.

Added Loach: "It's a rebuild and there will be new signings."