AS summer fades, fans starved of their favourite action can sense the swish of blades on ice and the whoosh of the puck hurtling past.

And don't forget the crunch of bones as high-speed bodies crash against the hoardings.

Yes, the ice hockey season is virtually here and to prove it, Blackburn Hawks face a double-headed challenge against Telford Wildfoxes this weekend.

Ahead of the English National League (North) season, which starts on Saturday September 8, away at Grimsby, Bobby Haig's men will test their pre-season preparations against the Shropshire club, which operates in the southern section of the League.

"Normally, we wouldn't get a chance to play them unless we got through the play-offs, but they will give us a good workout, I am sure of that," said coach Haig.

The Hawks finished strongly last season, but were eliminated in the League play-offs.

This time around they will be without key men Craig Sharman and Danny Mackriel who have left the club.

Haig said: "They will be missed, but we have strengthened the team with Jamie Thompson who has come back from Solway.

"Also, we are looking at Lee Mercer from Sheffield this week, he could be a good signing."

The wily Scot conceded it would be tougher this year, with only two as opposed to four teams qualifying for the play-offs.

"Billingham will be one of them again," he predicted. "It's time for our lads to stand up and be counted. If they do, we might nick the other place. I don't see why not."

He also revealed he would be playing up front this season, adding his renowned striking power to the front-line.

Today the Hawks travel to Telford, before the return challenge match on tomorrow at Blackburn Ice Arena. Doors open at 5.15 pm for a 6 pm face-off.