As manager Gary Naysmith rebuilds the squad for next season, we can confirm that Scott Mercer and Darren Brownlie have signed new deals with the club and Jack Leighfield has agreed a new deal.  However, Jordan Marshall has unfortunately turned down a new contract, as has Shaun Rooney who will now join Inverness. Caledonian Thistle.  

Also leaving will be club captain, John Rankin, along with Derek Lyle, Dan Carmichael and Jessie Akubuine.  

The manager has already identified other players that he would like to bring to the club and negotiations will continue with them along with other out of contract players.

Six of the current squad are already signed for the next campaign, Stephen Dobbie, Kyle Jacobs, Callum Fordyce, Alan Martin, Lyndon Dykes and Andy Stirling.

Speaking of those who will be leaving the club, the manager said "I would like to place on record a huge thanks to all those players who are moving on. Having to let players go is a part of the job that I don't like, however it’s part and parcel of football and something that happens at every club, every year.

John has been a true captain for me in his time at Palmerston and has been a model professional both on and off the pitch and I’d to thank him for all his help. Derek is another character who will be missed in and around the changing room and he also goes with my best wishes and thanks for all his help during my spell at the club and for what he has achieved throughout his Queens career.

Things haven't really worked out for Danny during my spell at the club which is unfortunate. He has been plagued with injury which is such a shame as he would have been a regular starter for me if he was fit. He has great talent and I really hope that he finds himself a new club and that he can have a long period of time injury free.

I would also like to wish Jordan well in his search for a new club. I firmly believe that he will have a good career in the game as long as he keeps learning and progressing. It’s unfortunate that we couldn’t agree terms on a new deal, but again, that’s part and parcel of football and he leaves the club with everyone’s best wishes.

I believe that Jesse has now reached an age where he needs to move on and play regular football and again, he leaves on good terms with everyone at the club. 

I wish each and everyone of them all the best in the future".