The FA has announced its Step 3 and 4 club allocations, subject to appeal and ratification by FA council.

Widnes, by virtue of a 13th place finish last season, retain their place in the Northern Premier League West division for a fifth successive season.

The Whites will renew acquaintances with both Hanley Town and Skelmersdale United, after the pair secured promotion last term.

Dave Dempsey will take his team to North West Counties Premier Division champions Macclesfield, who will make their bow at Step 4, while Witton Albion also join the division having been relegated from the NPL Premier Division.

NPL West Division (20 clubs, Step 4): 1874 Northwich, Bootle, City of Liverpool, Clitheroe, Colne, Glossop North End, Hanley Town, Kidsgrove Athletic, Leek Town, Macclesfield, Mossley, Newcastle Town, Prescot Cables, Ramsbottom United, Runcorn Linnets, Skelmersdale United, Trafford, Widnes, Witton Albion, Workington.