ATHLETIC will team-up with one of their rival Championship clubs off the park in response to COVID-19.

They have announced a partnership agreement with Alloa Athletic, in what they say is a first in Scottish football, to share resources and facilities.

In what chairman, Ross McArthur, said would "be of value to both clubs moving forward", the Pars will use the Clackmannanshire side's Indodrill Stadium for training during the forthcoming season.

They will have access to separate changing facilities and storage, in a 'bio-safe' environment, while there is a reciprocal agreement for the clubs to host each other's first team fixtures if either East End Park or the Indodrill is out of commission.

In addition, they are currently reviewing other Covid-19 costs that they could share, which could include other local Professional football clubs in the Forth Valley.

McArthur explained: "We are delighted to agree this arrangement with our near neighbours, as next season will undoubtedly cause issues we have not experienced before.

"I am extremely grateful to Mike for working with us over the last few weeks to create something that will be of value to both clubs moving forward, in terms of meeting the JRG guidelines but also sharing costs.

"I see this as a good new story of two clubs, in close proximity, working closely together for each other’s benefit.

"From DAFC’s perspective, it also provides us with certainty, as using a facility operated by a local authority next season could be extremely challenging on a number of fronts."

Alloa chairman, Mike Mulraney, added:"We are convinced that this agreement shows that in these difficult times clubs can work together to ensure that we all not only survive, but can learn new ways to thrive even in the most difficult of circumstances, building resilience for both clubs will be only one of the very positive outcomes achieved.

"We believe that this shows a positive way forward for clubs to share resource where appropriate and we thank Ross and all at Dunfermline for their positive approach and commitment to building a great outcome for both clubs."