OXFORD City Stars will play in the second tier of English ice hockey for the first time in decades next season.

The move comes following a restructuring meeting, creating two new divisions.

They will play teams in their Conference twice home and away, while playing the sides in the other division once home and away.

James Schall, director at the Stars, said: “It’s a huge challenge for us ahead but we’re up for it and hope our fans, players, the city council and commercial partners join us in that challenge.”

NEW FORMAT

Conference A: Basingstoke Bison, Bracknell Bees, Cardiff Fire, Milton Keynes Thunder, Oxford City Stars, Solent Devils.

Conference B: Chelmsford Chieftains, Invicta Dynamos, London Raiders, P’boro’ Phantoms, Streatham Redhawks, Swindon Wildcats.