POPULAR forward Paul Petts is the latest re-signing for the Basingstoke Bison for their forthcoming campaign, writes Graham Merry.

The 25-year-old, who has just become a father for the first time, is back for a sixth year with the Herd, having made his debut in season 2017/18.

The Gosport-born forward came through the ranks of the Bison junior programme and in his final year as captain of the under-20 team returned 37 points.

He has a work rate which is second to none on the team, but this is not reflected in his points.

The forward lost count of the number of times he hit the pipework last season, before he finally scored in the final play-off game in Swindon.

Bison head coach Ashley Tait is delighted to have Petts back for another year and said: “Last year Pettsy switched from wing to the middle and I felt he did really well. He is a player who keeps things simple and makes the right plays, so he is easy to play with. I know for sure he would like to score more goals and I look forward to him doing that this season.”

Tait added: “Everyone at the club would also like to congratulate Paul and Georgia on the birth of their son and we look forward to welcoming a new member to the Bison family.”

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