KYLE Newman might regularly have his domestic bliss disturbed by James Shanes – but the Pirates vice-captain insists his new team-mate can repay him on the track.

Poole-born Newman, this year due to tackle his fourth straight campaign with the Wimborne Road club, lives a stone's throw from Shanes in Puddletown.

In fact, so close are the duo's homes that Newman can often hear the 19-year-old starting up his bikes.

And while a roaring engine might disturb the tranquil environs of the Dorset village, Newman says top-flight rookie Shanes can justify that by ripping it up on the shale.

Newman told the Daily Echo: "I've been helping James out in the past couple of years and that will continue even more so now he has joined Poole.

"I've just got to tell him not to start his bikes up so much, because he's noisy! He starts them up all the time.

"I will be relaxing at home during the day and all of a sudden – vroom!

"As long as he puts the points on the board, it's all good. If he's not doing his job I'll just walk down the road and slap him round the head!

"In all seriousness, he is a nice kid and easy to get on with so I'm happy to help him out with whatever he needs."

Pirates chief Matt Ford created the role of vice-captain specifically for Newman, who he views as a captain of the future.

The promotion came as something of a surprise to the 25-year-old, who had expected only to be announced as a member of the 2017 septet when he turned up for a Riders' Equipment Fund event at Wimborne Road in December.

"Matt didn't tell me beforehand, he just announced it at the REF night, which was quite funny," said Newman.

"It is an honour and shows Matt has a lot of faith in me which gives me a lot of confidence.

"It was unexpected but I'm glad it happened and, hopefully, I can learn a little bit from Hans (Andersen, captain) and help the other boys as well.

"I don't think it is a secret that to captain Poole is a future goal of mine and it's going to be nice to have a bit of responsibility.

"I think Matt has given me the role because he knows I like to try to get around the pits as much as I can.

"With a little bit more responsibility there is a little bit more pressure, which might push me on a bit more."

A firm favourite with Poole supporters, Newman featured in the grand final triumph of 2013 when Pirates comfortably saw off Birmingham.

The local lad went on to win Elite League crowns with the Dorset club in the following two seasons.

Selected for a third full campaign in the skull and crossbones, Newman helped Poole reach the play-off semi-final last term.

He is due to link up with the Team GB squad for a pre-season training camp at King's Lynn.