Jamie Rainford and Danny Ventre become Widnes' first two signings of the summer and they represent quite a coup for the Whites.

Rainford arrives after ending last season with Colwyn Bay, who he joined from Glossop North End in February 2017.

The 30-year-old striker hit 29 goals for the Hillmen in the NPL First Division North in the 2015/16 season and lists Chester City, FC Halifax Town and AFC Fylde amongst his former clubs.

He made his name as a free-scoring marksman at Marine AFC as a youngster, earning interest from Football League clubs, after netting 28 goals for the Mariners during the 2010/11 season.

Thirty-two-year-old Ventre joins from new league rivals Droylsden, re-uniting with joint boss Steve Akrigg and defender Michael Grogan after the trio were team-mates at AFC Telford United in 2015.

The defensive midfielder helped Accrington Stanley to the Conference National title in 2006, before appearing for Stanley in the Football League the following season.

He signed for League of Ireland side Sligo Rovers in 2007, under the management of now Wigan Athletic manager Paul Cook.

Ventre made 194 appearances in a six-year spell with Rovers, captaining his side to their first title in 37 years in 2012.

Ventre enjoyed a two-year spell at Warrington Town after brief spells at Derry City and Telford, winning player of the year honours with the Yellows in 2016.

He also brings coaching experience to the club, holding a UEFA A licence.

Join boss Kevin Towey told the club`s website: “We are delighted to be able to welcome both Jamie and Danny to the club.

“Jamie’s record at this level is as good as any. Although he was a bit part player for Colwyn Bay last season, he joins us in fantastic shape and his addition is a real coup for us.

“Danny gives us a different dimension – he’s a lion of a competitor.

“He’s been successful wherever he’s been, and as a minimum, I know that we are getting someone who demands high standards.”

Meanwhile, Ben Cartwright and Bram Johnstone have completed moves from former Hallmark Security League Premier Division rivals Ashton Athletic.

The defensive duo were previously on the books at Widnes under the management of Steve Hill, signing from Cammell Laird in March 2015.

Johnstone would appear in six games for Widnes towards the end of the 2014/15 season, while Cartwright would make 21 appearances across two spells before joining Colwyn Bay in March 2016.

Cartwright made over 50 appearances for Athletic last season, being named players’ player of the season.

Johnstone came through the academy at Wigan Athletic before going on to enjoy spells at Vauxhall Motors, Cammell Lairds and Prescot Cables.

Both were winners of the Liverpool Senior Cup with Cables in 2017.

Towey added: “Ben and Bram both bring previous Northern Premier experience with them to the club.

“I’ve always been a fan of Ben’s when he has featured against us. He is a strong, athletic central defender with good ability on the ball.

“I’m confident that Ben can get even better playing alongside Michael Burke and Michael Grogan.

“Bram is very gifted technically and can play at either left back or left midfield, and in a holding midfield position.

“His ability to pick a pass and dictate play from a deep position will be advantageous throughout the season”.