After severe financial difficulties, Basingstoke Bison will play in the EPIHL next season.

Basingstoke Bison have had their application to join the English Premier Ice Hockey League accepted after experiencing severe financial difficulties in this season's Elite Ice Hockey League.

John Neville, Director of Group Operations for Planet Ice said: "We are grateful that all the teams in the English Premier League has accepted us into their family for the forthcoming season. We feel this is the right step for the Bison and now will look to build a team which will be a credit to the league, as well as the organisation.

"We have some of the best fans in the country and want them to enjoy success again. We will be looking to deliver a product on the ice, which the community and town of Basingstoke will be proud of."

As part of the team's rebuilding, 48-year old Steve Moria is returning to the team as player/coach from Slough Jets after last having played for Bison 6 years ago. Moria is bringing his player/assistant coach from Slough, Scotsman Tony Redmond. Redmond is another familiar face in Basingstoke having last played their 3 years ago.

Moria's initial player signings are British veteran, Nicky Chinn, and 18-year old Sam Oakford.