Promotion and relegation from Highland League could be put in place next season

Promotion to and relegation from the Highland League could be implemented in time for next season.

Positive talks have taken place between the Highland League (SHFL), North Caledonian Football Association (NCFA) and the Scottish Junior Football Association North Region to create a tier six division for the 2020/21 campaign.

If plans are agreed, teams from the North Caledonian League (NCL) and the Scottish Junior North Football Super League could be promoted to the Highland League, replacing relegated sides.

SHFL secretary Rod Houston is confident the plans could be in place in time to put in a tier six in the north for the start of next season.

“We have aimed to start the tier six league in the pyramid system for 2020,” confirmed Houston.

“It has been a gradual process to bring everyone together.

“But we are now ready in the north for the three parties to meet to set out the operating processes for the relationship between tier five and tier six in time for next season.

“For the NCL I am confident that can happen between these divisions.

“The junior north league might need a bit more time, but this hiatus may give us time to get everything worked out.”

Read more in today's North Star.

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.