Telford Tigers player to return after investigation ends

An investigation was launched by West Mercia Police after allegations of an assault during Swindon Wildcats' match at Telford Tigers on September 24.

Wildcats' forward Toms Rutkis was reportedly left needing surgery on his jaw after sustaining an injury in the incident.

It was also rumoured to have involved Telford Tigers player Jonathan Weaver, who suspended during the investigation.

At the time, the English Ice Hockey Association, which runs the National Ice Hockey League that Telford Tigers play in, said it would also be looking into the incident.

No arrests were made at the time, but West Mercia Police said it was speaking to witnesses and investigating an "alleged assault".

Swindon won the match in Shropshire 4-1.

Now, the Tigers have issued a statement hitting out at treatment of Weaver during the interim period, as it is revealed that no action is going to be taken, following the investigation.

In a statement on the clubs website, from chairman Mike Washburn, it says: "Telford Tigers have today received official confirmation from the West Mercia Police that following a complete and thorough investigation into Jonathan Weaver and the on ice incident that occurred in the game between Telford Tigers and Swindon Wildcats on the September 24, 2017 that no further action will be taken.

"Tigers management have remained silent throughout the conduct of this matter, and have fully supported the investigation by the West Mercia Police and also the English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA).

"We have however been greatly saddened, that a very well-respected national and international player has been dragged through a trial by social media over the last few weeks.

"We would like to welcome Weaves back and put on record a massive thank you to Jonathan and our fans, now is the time to look forward.

"Telford Tigers will now as a club be lodging an appeal in respect of the penalties awarded to Jonathan."

Defenceman Weaver, 40, who triumphed with the national team in the World Championship earlier this year, signed up for a fourth season with Tigers in July, following a career which has seen him represent, Durham Wasps, Manchester Storm, Detroit Vipers, Mississippi Sea Wolves, Ayr Scottish Eagles, Newcastle Vipers, Hull Thunder, Fife Flyers, Coventry Blaze and the Nottingham Panthers, as well as Great Britain.

Paul Roberts, a spokesman for the force confirmed: "West Mercia Police investigated reports of an alleged assault involving players during a game at Telford Ice Rink on Sunday, September 24 and can confirm that no further action will be taken.

"No arrests were made and all parties have been updated."