Interim manager Gary Locke has been handed the role of Kilmarnock boss on a permanent basis after signing a three-year deal, the Scottish Premiership club announced on Friday.

Locke, who was in charge of Hearts last season, initially arrived at Rugby Park as assistant to Allan Johnston last summer before taking charge when his former Jam Tarts team-mate stepped down in February.

Under Locke, Killie have lost just once in seven games and remain in contention to finish in the top six with three matches to go before the split.

"I'm just delighted to be able to get my future sorted out. Now I know what's what and I can look forward to pressing ahead with plans we want to put in place for Kilmarnock moving forward," said the 39-year-old, who also spent time with the club as a player.