English National Ice Hockey League outfit the Peterborough Islanders have announced the capture of Yardley from the now-defunct English Premier League side the Chelmsford Chieftains.

Yardley was at Phantoms for the first half of last season before joining the Essex club after finding himself surplus to requirements under Canadian coach Phil David.

He is likely to join fellow former Phantom Steve Maile who joined the 'Isles' midway through last season after also finding himself unwanted by David.

Maile has yet to be confirmed for another season but one player certain to be coming back is fans' favourite Tom Perkins after his signature was announced by the Bretton club.

Perkins said: "I am happy to be back for the Islanders for another term. It was never a hard choice to make as coach Jesse Hammill gave me a huge chance last year and I want to repay that opportunity.

"I am only 18 and have already had a season of first line at ENL and that can only be good for my development."

The club also announced that former Pirates enforcer Elwyn Dawkins will be re-joining the off ice team for the coming campaign.

Islanders general manager Gary Coomes said: "Elwyn was a great help to me last year and an even bigger help to the team. His enthusiasm for the sport is boundless and that rubs off on players and staff alike. Elwyn is an exceptional defensive coach and I am sure this is an area that coach Hammill will exploit."