Although a number of key first team regulars were missing due to holidays and other commitments, boss Dave Cormie was heartened by what was a huge turnout which incorporated a mixed session to include the youth brigade.

He said: ""We had 36 players along and I will be delighted to get numbers like that for every session, big numbers helps to ensure the hard work can also include recovery periods, as we split the groups.

"Davidson Park will be used as often as possible, it is a super area for pre-season training and having so many coaches along and willing to help made it a good first night."

It has been well documented in recent weeks that the first team squad numbers are very high following the arrival of several new signings but one player who scored a vital goal last term has headed for pastures new.

Allan Youngson has joined former SuperLeague champions Culter and will be remembered in Locos folklore as the player who clinched an opening day League win over Deveronvale at Harlaw Park last season, his headed counter coming deep into injury time.

Cormie paid the following tribute: "Alfie heads off to the junior ranks and everyone at the club wishes him all the best, I really feel he should still be playing Highland League football but he has gone for more regular action which I could not guarantee him."

Further additions to the squad are unlikely, although the Harlaw Park side were credited with a strong interest in former Peterhead player Ian Good, the versatile defender opting instead to go to Buckie Thistle.

"Unless someone comes on the go that we feel we want to add to the squad, I am happy with the numbers although a few players are struggling to get back, such as Scott Michie, Roddy Mess and Ally Graham who have not shaken off the knocks they had at the end of the season.

"As I say though I'm very happy with the progress of our young boys in training. Ardi Djahansovzi, James Brownie, Craig Macklin, Ryan Stott are all coming along and we also have Lewis McKimmie training hard.

"He was farmed out to Banks O'Dee at the end of the season and scored a lot of goals to help win them the League."