The Redcar Bears speedway management are able to present the Teesside fans with the perfect Christmas present - the news that their number one and inspiration Gary Havelock has agreed terms for Season 2007 which starts at the South Tees Motorsport Park on Thursday March 22nd.

The former World Champion is a local hero having started his career as a 16-year-old at the former Cleveland Park track before progressing to become of the greatest British speedway riders of all time.

His contribution to the Bears' cause is not only measured in terms of his points-scoring exploits on track but his mentoring of his young team as club captain.

A top five of Gary plus Daniel Giffard, James Grieves, Chris Kerr and Matthieu Tressarieu is now confirmed and the Bears look strong and competitive for the new Premier League campaign. Confirmation will follow in the New Year as to the pool of reserve riders with local lad Rusty Hodgson already named.