ED Knaggs has been rewarded for a successful debut year with a new contract by Bracknell Bees, writes Dave Wright.

Head coach Doug Sheppard commented: "Last season he quickly developed into an elite defender. With his strong skating ability and offensive instincts, I’m certain Ed will continue to grow as a player and I’m looking forward to seeing how much he progresses next season.”

Born in Hemel Hempstead, the 21-year-old Knaggs said: "I’m delighted to be back at the Hive. With the team Doug’s putting together I’m sure we will be in the hunt for trophies and I can’t wait to get started.”

Forward Aidan Doughty, 23, has also re-signed for the Bees, having scored 21 goals and made as many assists in his first season with Sheppard stating: "He was impressive and played with good maturity. "

Former Bees skipper Matt Foord is excited about returning to the Hive to play for Bracknell Hornets. He will also assist head coach Mark Saunders with the coaching.

"Bracknell is a club that’s close to my heart, I hope my experience and knowledge of the game will help the team and help develop some of our younger players," said 37-year-old Ford, who was released at the end of the 2017-18 season and moved to Invicta Dynamos.

"At this stage of my career, coaching is something I really want to get into, and I’m thankful for Bracknell and Mark for giving me this opportunity."

Saunders commented: "I'm over the moon with getting Matt's commitment to the Hornets for the 2019-20 season, his experience and wealth of knowledge at this level will be invaluable for the upcoming season.

"Matt will be working with me as an assistant coach and as such we are going to be pushing ourselves to get the very best from the players we are recruiting. It's an exciting time in Bracknell and I couldn't be happier with our first signing."

Hornets will be playing in the new-look South Division One, where their nine rivals will include Invicta Dynamos, Slough Jets and Oxford City Stars.