Annetts, 27, re-signs for his third straight season with the Bees and fourth overall, while Paynter, 19, has won his first full-time contract with the Bees after impressing in a 30 game audition last season.

Annetts maintained a 0.893 save percentage in 27 games last season as he formed a strong goaltending tandem with Alex Mettam that grew stronger as the season progressed, while Paynter chipped in four assists and 20 PIM in 30 games while playing a physical end-to-end game.

Head Coach Lukas Smital was delighted with the signings and said: “Tom and Ben will have big roles to play this year as we look to build on our playoff place last year.

“They both had strong campaigns last season in their respective roles, and after a good pre-season of preparation they are both raring to go, as are the rest of the guys”.

The Bees have also revealed the cost of going to games for the coming season.

Adult tickets will cost £13.50, while over 60s will have to pay £10. Students and young adults - aged between 17 and 21 - will be charged £8 and children under the age of three can enter for free.

A wide selection of family tickets will start at £21 and general manager Beeching said: “Last year we broke the EPL attendance record and this year we want to break the 3,000 mark.

“With the introduction of a brand new cup competition there is plenty for fans to get excited about.

“We are the third most watched professional sports team in Berkshire and the crowds last year were amazing. “I am really encouraged by the number of new people we introduced ice hockey too.”