BRADFORD Park Avenue have continued their busy pre-season by signing Jack Rea, re-signing Matty James and John Lamb and extending the stays of Jamie Price and Grant Black.

The 22-year-old Rea, who was released by Vanarama North rivals Guiseley at the end of last season, played the whole game for Avenue as a trialist on Saturday at Witton Albion, and Bradford boss John Deacey acted quickly to secure his signature.

Rea admitted: “It was a blow to be released but I’ve been training throughout pre-season and once I had contact with the manager I was really pleased.

“We can build on what the club have achieved and hopefully push for a play-off spot.

“I’ve played against Bradford (Park Avenue) before and they’ve always looked good going forward, and that’s where hopefully I can play a part.

“I’m more defensively-minded so I can try and help keep the goals against us down while the lads up front continue to score goals.”

Popular goalkeeper Lamb left at the end of last season after making 51 appearances in 2013-14 and has played 155 games in all for Avenue.

Matty James, who was with Farsley AFC last season, returns to the Horsfall Stadium after a successful trial.

Part of Avenue’s promotion-winning side from Evo-Stik North, he said: “I’m delighted to be back at the club and hopefully we can have a successful season.”

Price, 32, returned for a second spell with the club when he signed in December 2012 from Ossett Town.

The former Leeds United, Doncaster Rovers and Farsley Celtic player, who has made 99 appearances for Avenue, added: “It’s great news to sign and hopefully we can have a better start to this season than last season.”

Right back Black joined Avenue from Buxton during last season and played in 17 games. He said: “I’m delighted to stay here.

“I’m really looking forward to this season and can’t wait to get started. We are looking to improve on our final position of tenth last season.”