Lunchtime deal seals Rainford return

Former Marine favorite Jamie Rainford is making a surprise return to Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division Marine.

The Mariners announced today [Tuesday] that the striker has signed a one month loan deal after they agreed terms at lunchtime for his switch from Conference North outfit FC Halifax Town.

The deal sees Rainford, 25, back at the Arriva Stadium following his transfer to Chester in May 2011 and subsequent move to FC Halifax Town in February this year. The frontman scored 28 goals for the Mariners in season 2010-11 and was the club's leading goalscorer for two seasons before his move to the Deva Stadium.

Marine manager Kevin Lynch is delighted that a deal was struck with the Shaymen to boost his firepower and hopes to see the forward make an immediate return to his starting line-up. Marine host Kendal in the league tonight and Rainford, pictured signing for the club flanked by Secretary Richard Cross and Chairman Paul Leary, is keeping his fingers crossed that he'll be available to take part.

Lynch said: "To have Jamie back playing for Marine is fantastic news. Jamie is thrilled to be back at the club where his heart has always been. He's looking forward to playing back at the Arriva Stadium and enjoying his football again. I am really pleased that he is back and his return to Marine will further reinforce our striking options."

Marine Chairman Paul Leary is a self-styled Rainford fan and is equally as delighted with news that the transfer had gone through.

He said: "This is great news for our fans as we continue with our efforts to achieve some level of success this season. The paperwork for the loan was only signed at lunchtime but we are hopeful that clearance will be given enabling him to be available for selection for tonight’s important game against Kendal Town at the Arriva Stadium. As a Jamie Rainford fan I'm really looking forward to seeing him in a Marine shirt again and hopefully from tonight."