Bedlington have tonight announced the arrival of some new blood at Dr Pit Welfare.

Dave Holmes, who did a huge amount of work to rescue the club when it was in crisis six years ago, has stood down as chairman, and been replaced by Ronana Liddane, who many Northern League followers will remember as a striker at Blyth and Bishop Auckland, and then as manager of Crook ten seasons ago.

oint manager Tony Lowery has decided to resign, and he has been replaced by Neil Saxton, who has left Whickham as manager and joined Bedlington as assistant manager.

Holmes said: ” After six years as Chairman, I feel now is the right time for change, I have enjoyed my time as Chairman immensely and can leave the post with a strong sense of pride, knowing that I have always tried my best for the club and that it is now on a very firm footing for my successor to take the club on to many successful years.

“When I became part of the club in 2006, we were literally a day or two from extinction so to look at where the club is today leaves me with a warm feeling of satisfaction. We have achieved so much in that time, but there is still much to do and I hope that the new Chairman gets the same support from the members that I have had.

” When Tony and Keith (Perry) came back to the club in 2007 we were facing relegation and were really struggling.

"It is without doubt, that the knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm of Tony and Keith were the main factors that prevented Bedlington Terriers from being relegated.

"In subsequent seasons they have rebuilt and strengthened the side and improved the finishing position of the side year on year and the team is now powerful and competitive once again.

"I would like to add my personal thanks to Tony for his support and friendship during our time together at The Terriers and I’m sure that all of the supporters would join me in acknowledging Tony’s contribution over 15 years and he will certainly never be forgotten by anyone associated with Bedlington Terriers.”

“Last season was difficult for us in many ways. Tony has decided that he needs a break. His absence will leave a massive hole in the club but I am delighted to say that Keith has decided to continue as Team Manager and we are hoping to announce more new faces at the club very soon.”