Havelock in Essex Hammers colours

Redcar Bears have confirmed they will not be releasing captain Gary Havelock after the necessary funding was sourced for him to remain on Teesside.

The 'Save Our Skipper' fund set up by unnamed commercial sponsors and supporters will help finance Havelock's contract until the end of the season.

Havelock will be back in the side for the visit to Sheffield on Thursday.

His return to Redcar's home track comes on Friday with the return leg of their fixture with the Tigers.

Bears' American rider Chris Kerr and Australian-Italian Arlo Bugeja will also make comebacks in the match at Sheffield.

Rider Dan Giffard will complete his return for the Bears on Friday.