VETERAN Tony Redmond has signed up for a 10th year with the Bison - and this season will be extra special as it will include a testimonial game for the popular player.

The benefit match is a fitting tribute to the Scottish-born forward, who has been a great servant to the club and last season set a new league appearance record of 325.

The 30-year-old is also the all-time top British points scorer for Basingstoke. Last season, he once again finished top of the pile and was 10th overall in the Elite League rankings for home-grown talent.

Redmond made his Basingstoke debut in the autumn of 1992 and has been part of some of the town's most successful teams, including the Heineken division one championship side and the double-winning Benson and Hedges Plate squads.

Redmond is currently in his third spell with Basingstoke, having spent a year with the Slough Jets in 1997/98 and three seasons with the Guildford Flames from 2001 to 2004.

Basingstoke Bison head coach Mark Bernard is delighted to have kept one of the most experienced British players at the Herd.

He said: "I am sure the fans will be pleased to see Tony back. Last season, when I moved him to play with the youngsters Greg Wood and Shaun Thompson, he was fantastic and that forward line did all that I asked of it.

"This season will include a testimonial game for him. As Tosh has given so many years to this club, it is about time we gave him something back."

Redmond, who missed the final home game of last season's campaign due to the birth of his son Joseph, is delighted to be staying at Basingstoke.

The British forward said: "This is home to me and the fans have always been great. I look forward to treating them to a fantastic season of hockey. I am also excited about it being my testimonial year.

"Last season was a difficult one as my wife Emma was confined to bed from 32 weeks of her pregnancy with Joseph.

"You try not to let it affect your game, but with a young daughter Lucy as well, it was not that easy.

"Now everything is fine and I am looking forward to the whole family being able to watch me play as I can concentrate more on my hockey."

The Bison have also secured the services of Michael Wales, of the Milton Keynes Lightning, on a two-way contract.

This will mean the 22-year-old will play when commitments with the Lightning allow. Last season, Wales impressed on three Bison appearances, scoring two goals.

Bernard said: "I love what Michael brings to the table. He plays in a very physical way and isn't afraid to drive to the net.

"This is a player I would love to have on a full-time basis, but personal obligations prevent that."