The Basingstoke Bison have added even more physical presence to their blue line with the signing of big beefy Canadian Wes Jarvis.

The 6ft 4in, 230 pound defenceman, is a former line-mate of Herd's player-of-the-year Eric Braff and their playing styles are similar.

The pair who formed a solid defensive partnership in the Championship winning side at St Francis Xavier University, are set to be reunited once he arrives in Britain.

Last season, Jarvis a native of Toronto, played in the French Elite League with Strasbourg, having helped them to the division one crown the previous year.

The 28-year-old, a New York Rangers draft pick in 1997, in the second round and 46 overall, has also played in the East Coast Hockey League with Charlotte Checkers, along with the Hartford Wolf Pack in the American Hockey League.

Talking about his final import signing Bison head coach Ryan Aldridge said: "He is another physical player very much in the mould of Braffer, but maybe a little more offensive.

"He has a left shot which was what we were looking for and knowing Braffer will mean he will settle in a lot quicker.

He added: "I feel the wait has been worth it, as I think we have found the right fit for the team."