Tom Watkins is pleased to have secured one of his key target signings, top British forward Joe Henry, despite interest from other clubs.

The 21-year-old will return to Telford Tigers for the coming campaign – hoping to complete a full season after missing part of last year with a broken knee.

Player-coach Watkins said: “This is a solid signing for us. Joe was one of the first signatures I wanted to secure.

“I understand there was contact from other teams, but Joe enjoyed it enough here to want to come back for a second term.

“He had a tremendous season, especially towards the back end. He’s one of the smartest forwards and plays very well defensively. There is no doubt he is a top-end Brit. He finished strongly and I expect him to carry that on into the next season.”

Henry went on the sick list after picking up his injury in January, but was back on the ice within a month.

“It was surprising to see him come back and play the way he did, from such a serious injury,” said Watkins.

“I expect Joe to be a big game player for us all year.”

The 5ft 9inch forward scored 39 points in 42 games last season for Tigers.

Solihull born Henry added: “I was really happy with the year as a whole and I think we played really well towards the end.

“I was not happy with the injury to my knee, but that sort of thing is just the way it goes if you are a hockey player. I hope to get through next year without any real injuries.”

By CAROLINE GARBETT