This will be Smith’s 3^rd session as a Bandit, in an association that goes back to around the turn of the Millennium for his first and 2005 for his second, but the prodigal son has made another highly anticipated comeback.

The Scud had kicked off 2008 with the Workington Comets, but as results were slow to come his Cumbrian bosses lost patience and let him go just as Berwick were looking for a replacement for the injured Italian, Guglielmo Franchetti.

He’s also just taken delivery of two brand new engines and other equipment, and will be better prepared then ever before for his 2008 debut this Saturday night at Shielfield Park (7.00pm) against the Isle of Wight Islanders.

Berwick promoter Peter Waite said: “He’s a real racer and just the sort of rider this club needs right now sitting on top of the League table.

“He’s an all out, never-say-die racer and his brand of excitement will definitely upgrade the level of excitement on a Saturday night, and I for one am thrilled to get this guy back up in the Borders yet again.

“He is as keyed up as me to get him back out on our track and score as well as possible and I cannot doubt this lad’s commitment as it’s as strong as any rider I’ve seen.

“The Scud is back, and our opposition had better beware! And watch the entertainment soar!”

Smith returns at reserve, pushing Finn Tero Aarnio into the main body of the team which will certainly add more strength in depth into a side desperately to cling on to that top slot in the League.