Hereford United midfielder Kingsley James and Hednesford Town winger Wayne Riley have joined Chester FC.

Steve Burr announced the double capture on Tuesday, the same day the Blues were given a reprieve from relegation after James' former club were expelled from the Football Conference.

Rotherham-born James, 22, has agreed a 12-month deal at the Swansway Chester Stadium.

He began his career with Sheffield United and made one League Cup appearance for the Blades before joining Port Vale in July 2011.

After a brief loan spell with non-league side Chasetown, James made 12 senior appearances for Vale but was loaned to Hereford in January 2013.

He moved to Edgar Street on a permanent basis last summer and featured 23 times as the Bulls finished one place above Chester in the Conference Premier table.

Hereford offered James a new contract but the club's worsening financial problems and subsequent expulsion have seen him join the Blues.

Burr is pleased to have the bearded midfielder on board.

“I’m delighted to have signed Kingsley and the squad is starting to take shape now," said the Blues boss.

“He is still young yet has Football League experience and will be a key player for us this season.”

Burr has confirmed he has completed the signing of ex-Airbus UK Broughton wide-man Riley too.

Wayne Riley in action for Airbus UK Broughton
Wayne Riley in action for Airbus UK Broughton

Riley, 24, came through the ranks at Northwich Victoria, scoring the winner in an FA Cup tie with Charlton Athletic in 2009.

He scored 38 times in 155 games for Vics but followed his manager Andy Preece to Airbus in summer 2012.

Riley netted 12 goals in 29 starts, ending the season as the Wingmakers top scorer, and leading to him being offered a trial at Wrexham.

He turned down that offer to join Hednesford, scoring 12 times in 23 starts for the Pitmen last season.