THE Basingstoke Bison have completed their roster for their forthcoming season with the signing of two British defencemen Jay King and Sam Smith.

Edinburgh-born King arrives at the Herd after spending his whole career with his home town team the Edinburgh Capitals where he made 229 appearances in the Elite League.

The 22-year-old is a former Great Britain under-20 international and last season played 46 games returning one assist and picked up 36 minutes in penalties, he made his Caps debut in season 2012/13.

Cardiff-born Smith played for his home town team the Cardiff Fire against the Herd last season in South One.

The 16-year-old also suited up for Welsh capital's South Two and under-18 outfits last term and in total played 36 games scoring nine goals and picking up nine assists, while incurring just 10 minutes in penalties.

Bison player/coach Ashley Tait is excited with his two new signings and said: "Jay has plenty of Elite League experience and is a solid professional player, who I have played against.

"Sam is a very good young player with a lot of potential and when Cardiff Fire pulled out of the league, Todd Kelman told me he was a player we needed to look at and I am pleased he has signed."

Bison fans will not have to wait long to see their new look team in action, as the Herd hit the ice in pre-season challenge games on the weekend of September 8 and 9, with the home game on Saturday.