BERWICK have appointed the “bubbly and energetic” Jye Etheridge as club captain for 2026.
The gritty Aussie, nicknamed Reggie, previously skippered the Bandits during the 2021 season and he takes the role for his adopted hometown side again this year.
Danyon Hume led the team last season before being ruled out by serious injury, with the role passing to Drew Kemp who is not back with the club for the forthcoming campaign.
Berwick boss Stewart Dickson said: “We know Jye as a bubbly, energetic and dependable presence in the pits and I had no hesitation in offering him the captaincy.
“He said he would be honoured to be the Bandits’ captain and cannot wait for the season to start.”
The club have been handed a double boost ahead of the 2026 campaign with the return of two major sponsors.
Wooler-based R.E.D Campers have confirmed they will be the Bandits’ headline sponsors for a second season with another Northumbrian firm, Stakeford Tyre Services (STS), re-signing as the club’s powered-by backer.
Owner Jamie Courtney said: “I’m delighted to announce that we will once again be known as the R.E.D Bandits, powered by STS and thank both locally-based companies for their continued backing.
“As with so many of our valued sponsors here at Berwick, it’s not just a case of handing over money as both R.E.D and STS have very much become part of the Berwick speedway family.
“Sponsorship is invaluable when it comes to keeping the bikes racing at Shielfield Park.”
Words by Holeshot Media.
Images by Taylor Lanning.