THE long-running saga over the future of Dave McNiven is over after the Leigh RMI striker completed a move to Scottish Division One side Queen of the South.

McNiven netted 25 times in the Conference for RMI last season, but turned down a new contract offer at Leigh to move north of the border for the second time in his career.

His first experience in Scotland was a poor one as he scored just six times in 28 games for Hamilton.

"I had a good season at Leigh", said McNiven, "and I was really happy with the support I had from the players and the fans. But I had a few offers and I thought that I should listen to them", he added.

One positive thing for the Railwaymen is that the prolific frontman hasn't moved to one of their Conference rivals after rejecting moves to Carlisle United and Stevenage Borough. Recently promoted Shrewsbury Town were also believed to be interested in McNiven to lead their League Two campaign.

But manager Phil Starbuck has moved quickly to secure the status of 19 year-old striker Craig Mitchell, who has recently been released by Mansfield Town.

He has been joined by experienced midfielder Gareth Stoker, who left Forest Green Rovers to come to Hilton Park on a two-year deal.

"Gareth is a winner", enthused Starbuck of the former Hull, Cardiff City and Scarborough man.

"He has experience and is a good player which is exactly what we need in the middle of the park", the manager added.

RMI fans should get their first sighter of the new signings on Saturday, when a hectic pre-season schedule kicks off at Chadderton. Leigh then travel to Kidsgrove Athletic next Thursday (15 July).