Ian Rae, who is also the track curator, has been appointed as team manager in place of Dave Peet, whilst local businessman George Hepburn replaces the outgoing Lynda Waite and her family on the promotional side.

And there is a strong local connection with the changes as both Rae and Hepburn live only a few hundred yards from the Shielfield track.

News of Waite's decision to stand down was officially made on Monday, with the departure of Peet coming just 24 hours later.

Both were heavily involved in the bid to save the Bandits at the end of the 2008 season following the announcement that former promoter Peter Waite was selling up.

Along with current promoter John Anderson and his family, who are staying on in their roles, they helped keep the club on track at what was undoubtedly a very difficult time.

And this week Anderson thanked them both for all their help and assistance during the intervening period.

Anderson said that Waite and her family were stepping down to concentrate on the family business at Cornhill Village Shop.

He said: "I'm really appreciative of everything that Lynda and her family have done in the last 18 months to help speedway survive and be a success at Berwick. Their contribution has been phenomenal and should not be underestimated.

"We didn't know each other when the club was put up for sale, but between us we've got it going in the right direction again. I fully understand Lynda's family decision to stand down now, and I can also announce that a new investor for the long term is already in place."

Waite said: "It's been a hectic time for the last year and a half, and we've enjoyed every minute. We're proud to have done our bit to keep the club alive, but running this club takes up a lot of time – and we still have our business to run.

"While we won't be involved in running the speedway now, we will still be here watching, and I can tell you that Cornhill Village Shop will be sponsoring this year's Bordernapolis event later in the year, so our link with Berwick Bandits Speedway will continue.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped and supported us and become our friends over the last two seasons, all the staff and volunteers, the management and riders and of course the fans."
Anderson said the new investor was George Hepburn, owner of Berwick building contractor George Hepburn and Son Ltd., a long term supporter of the Bandits and sponsor of rider Lee Complin.

Hepburn said: "I'm delighted to get the opportunity to help the club develop, and I'm getting involved at an exciting time following the rebirth of the club last season. I'm looking forward to a long term involvement, and hope to build on the excellent job done by Lynda and her family."

On the departure of Peet Anderson added: "I cannot emphasise how much Lynda Waite and I benefited from Dave's knowledge and experience since we took over this club.

"Neither of us had any real experience in speedway administration, and Dave guided us wisely in so many ways. However, at this point in time and with the club now moving in a different direction it was agreed we should come to the parting of the ways."