Planet Ice have secured the future of the Basingstoke Bison.

The Herd will take to the ice on Tuesday night in Nottingham as they continue their Elite League campaign.

Eric Braff will remain as player/coach and in charge of all on ice matters. Greg Chambers and Jeremy Cornish will remain as his assistants.

Mark Richardson has asked to be released of his contract, while injured Jason Goulet has decided to return to Canada.

The Bison will continue to improve and strengthen the Herd over the coming weeks.

Planet Ice Director of Operations, John Neville said: "This is a new start, a new beginning, we have agreed with our Director of Hockey Harry Robinson to co-ordinate day-to-day working alongside myself.

"We will be honouring the existing season tickets for the remainder of the season."

Local councillor and businessman Harry Robinson said: "Ice Hockey is an important part of the community of Basingstoke. Together with Planet Ice we are looking to ensure the stability of the team on both a commercial and financial basis.

"I will now be actively pursuing fresh sponsorship and partnerships which will support those objectives."

He added: "I am sure our great fans will get behind Planet Ice in their endeavours to maintain ice hockey in this town."