Former chairman's return marks new era for Vipers

O'Connor was a co-owner during the club's 2006 play-off victory

Newcastle Vipers claim the return of former chairman Paddy O'Connor marks the beginning of a new era for the north-east's top ice hockey club.

Vipers finished second bottom of the Elite League last season, losing 35 of their 56 games.

O'Connor's first job will be to oversee the search for a new coach after Rob Wilson announced he was standing down.

O'Connor, who left the club in 2007, said: "Going forward next year with a new coach is like a fresh beginning."

O'Connor was part of an ownership group which took over the club in 2005, alongside Paul Ferone and Wilson. A former player with Durham, Telford and Sheffield, O'Connor stood down at the end of the club's second season in the Elite League to pursue outside business interests.

"My situation now allows me the time to come back and take a more active role once again, and I can't wait to be involved," O'Connor said.

Day to day operation and management of the club will be assumed by O'Connor and general manager Jaimie Longmuir.

The Vipers have been without a chairman since O'Connor's departure in 2007, with the running of the club undertaken by co-owners Paul Ferrone and Wilson, along with Longmuir.

Despite stepping down as coach Wilson will remain in his co-ownership role.