JAMES PENRICE

The left sided defender joins the Jambos on a three-year-deal following the expiry of his contract at Livingston.

25-year-old James has already amassed a wealth of experience within Scottish football. A product of Partick Thistle’s youth system, he made his professional debut for the Firhill side in May 2016.

Following loan spells at East Fife and Livingston, he went on to make 114 appearances for the Jags, scoring three goals, before picking up a League One winner’s medal as Thistle lifted the division flag.

His stellar performances earned a move to the top flight with Livingston in 2021, where he played with future Hearts teammate Alan Forrest, making 94 appearances and scoring three goals across three seasons in West Lothian.

James will now continue his career in a maroon jersey as the Jam Tarts gear up for a blockbuster season of domestic and continental action.