Cross-border clubs will no longer be invited to compete in the SPFL Trust Trophy.

Competition organisers have announced the major change to the tournament alongside record prize money up for grabs.

Previously, cross-border clubs were included in the competition but this has ceased after six seasons.

The SPFL cite fixture congestion as the reason for the decision to only proceed with SPFL clubs from now on.

The competition update - which comes into force next season - also sees a 58 percent increase in the prize pot to £790,000.

The winners of the tournament will earn £100,000 - a 100 percent increase from this season.

Facility payments to clubs for televised matches - of £1,500 - will see the total payout to teams top £800k.

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SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster said: “We’re really pleased to announce record prize money for the SPFL Trust Trophy next season.

“The SPFL Trust have been fantastic supporters of this important cup competition. Their investment, and the continuing generosity of James and Morag Anderson, is greatly appreciated.

“We have very much enjoyed the participation of cross-border teams, who have competed in six seasons of this competition since they first joined in Season 2016/17.

"However, their involvement does further complicate our already congested fixture schedule. Hence the SPFL Trust Trophy will revert to a Scottish-only competition next season.

“We are delighted to welcome five Highland League clubs and six Lowland League clubs into the SPFL Trust Trophy next season.”

New SPFL Trust Trophy prize money

Winners - £100,000

Runners-up - £60,000

Losing semi-finalists - £40,000

Losing quarter-finalists - £30,000

4th round losers - £20,000

3rd round losers - £15,000

2nd round losers - £10,000

1st round losers - £5,000