Richardson back for Panthers

BRUCE Richardson (pictured) – the "heartbeat" of Nottingham Panthers – will be back next season.

At a press conference today, the 31-year-old French Canadian was unveiled as the team's first signing and the news will be welcomed by fans throughout the country.

Although only 5ft 9in, Richardson's combative no-nonsense style made him a firm favourite during his first season in the UK after 11 years as a professiona.

Coach Corey Neilson said: "He has really helped me this year with his planning off the ice and enthusiasm on it. He's the energy guy."