Jimmy Bone was Dick Campbell's right-hand man at Firhill

The First Division club made the announcement after much speculation about a successor followed Tuesday's sacking of Dick Campbell.

Bone agreed to carry on after a meeting with chairman Allan Cowan that followed his first training session in charge.

A statement on the Thistle website said this would allow a considered decision and Bone time to apply should he wish.

"There is little doubt that Jimmy being willing to take on the role for the rest of the season is a positive one as it will allow the board time to make a valued assessment of the situation and not be forced into making a quick and hasty decision on a new manager," it stated.

"And, at the same time, it gives Jimmy the opportunity to throw his hat into the ring when decision time comes along.

"With two critical away matches coming up against Gretna and Ross County, this represents an ideal opportunity for the team to secure their status in the First Division and hopefully bring a little of the feel-good factor back to the club."

Campbell, to whom Bone was assistant, have suffered a series of poor results but still remain in sixth place in Division One.