After keeping them up in 02/03, not that they were in great danger, Ayr were relegated last season despite a brave effort. They were effectively relegated at Love Street, when Saints came from behind to win 4-1. Many thought they would come straight back up this season, but have struggled, losing four of their five games.
McWhiter was made assistant manager in the summer, and both have bitten the bullet after they announced they were not prepared to take wage cuts.
Former Saints still at Ayr include Ludovic Roy, John Hillcoat and Barry McLaughlin, along with former trialist Dougie Ramsay. Chris Kerr and Lee Hardy were there last season, but have left.
Ayr are now in serious financial trouble. They aren't in administration, but could be heading for it with unpaid bills and other money problems.