Craig Graham, the Spartans chairman, has lauded the impact made by the creation of the Lowland League this season.

His club were confirmed as champions at the weekend as Vale of Leithen were unable to record the win necessary to continue their own challenge.

The division was born last summer and forms the base of a pyramid structure in Scottish football. Its maiden campaign has been nothing short of a success, according to Graham.

"The standard's been higher, the crowds have been higher, sponsorship has been good and the profile has been really good," he said. "I think all the teams are delighted with the way it has gone."