Rusty Hodgson - the Cleveland Bays 'Rider of the Year' has been given the opportunity to take the second reserve spot in the Redcar senior team and in so doing creates history as a third generation 'Bear'.

His grandfather Frank was the club's post-war captain and one of its most distinguished riders along with Great Uncle Jack. Rusty's father Russ was a Middlesbrough Bear in the 1970's and now the 24-year-old ex-road racer is being given his chance in what should prove a popular move on Teesside as he becomes the second local boy in the septet with former World Champion Gary Havelock expected to agree terms with club owner Chris Van Straaten soon.

Rusty himself signed a full contract with the Redcar Bears at the quiz evening at the Thistle Hotel, Middlesbrough last Thursday evening following his announcement as the top Bay of the 2006 Conference Shield season at a recent social event in the town centre. With the Bays having applied for full membership of the 2007 Conference League then Rusty will double-up for these and the Premier League Bears - which should keep him fit!

Said Rusty: 'The chance has come a lot quicker than I expected but I am really up for it and want to carry on the family tradition.' The hospitality unit at the South Tees Motorpark is named the Hodgson Lounge in honour of the contribution of the previous generations to speedway on Teesside.