Britton had been with Stranraer since May 2006

Stranraer had accepted a request from the First Division club to speak to Britton, who was previously at Firhill as a player and joint-manager.

Derek Ferguson takes over as caretaker manager with Third Division Stranraer.

Thistle's website stated: "All at Firhill are delighted to welcome back the 'King of Spain' - a well respected and qualified coach."

Manager Ian McCall had been seeking a replacement for Gardner Speirs, who was named Queen's Park head coach last week.

Britton's departure came 24-hours after he made two deadline-day signings for Stranraer.

Stranraer made two deadline-day signings but could be poised to lose manager Gerry Britton.

Ian Dobbins arrived from Montrose, while Darren Gribben was a free agent after having been released by Stirling Albion.

Dobbins had signed a pre-contract agreement with Stranraer.

But the two clubs and the player agreed a deal allowing him to move during the January transfer window instead of the summer.

The 23-year-old was in his first season with Montrose having arrived from Third Division rivals Arbroath.

Striker Gribben has signed until the end of the season.

He had made only five appearances for the First Division outfit after his summer move from Forfar Athletic and had been loaned to Brechin City.