Australian speedway ace Craig Watson, pictured, will be thrilling Newport fans for a seventh season.

The long-awaited announcement was made today by Newport promoter Tim Stone who said: "Craig is one of the top riders in the Premier League and he is at the top of his trade and riding some of the best speedway of his career."

The 28-year-old Sydney born Austr-alian is due back in south Wales later this month, well in time to ride in the Prince of Wales Trophy, the season's opening meeting at the Hayley Stadium on March 6 (tapes-up 2.30pm).

Stone added: "His contract with Newport speedway was completed before he left for Australia and the dotting of the 'Is' and crossing of the 'Ts' related to other things which have now been resolved.

"He will again be wearing the number five race jacket and no doubt Craig will continue to be a dominant force throughout the Premier League, because he rides all tracks, all shapes, all surfaces, solidly."

And Watson, who went home to compete in the Australian championship, has been a model of consistency. Last season the Wasps' skipper returned an average of 9.69 from 180 rides in 36 Premier League and Premier Trophy meetings.

He scored 434 points and two bonus points.

His overall Newport average is 9.11, taking part in 157 meetings (819 rides) and scoring 1798 points and 68 bonus points. He has gained 16 maximums and five paid maximums.

Watson had two seasons in the Elite League with Poole.

Watson's continued time with Newport will finally silence the doubters who have been spreading doom and gloom - largely on web sites - forecasting his departure.

Stone added: "We spoke about the team and he was really enthusing about the solid scoring potential throughout the ranks and he, like me, is looking forward to a much better season."

Wasps just escaped the wooden spoon last year but with the arrival of vastly experienced pair Neil Collins and Michael Coles it should provide the perfect lift.

* The Danish duo of Mads Korneliussen and Kristian Lund are holding an intensive school with the Mavericks on Saturday morning (11am-3pm)- ahead of their competing at the Telford ice meeting - along with Tony Atkin - the following day.

Stone is expecting to complete negotiations with Lund over the weekend, leaving only the number seven slot to resolve.

* A High Octane - the new fund-raising club - and SWARM meeting will be held on Saturday night at the Orb Club, Jenkins Street, Newport (7.30pm) and at the pre-season get together where everyone is welcome, Korneliussen and Lund will make the draw for the High Octane winners.

* The opening Premier Trophy meeting will be at Rye House on March 19 and the following day Wasps will be out to sting M4 rivals Reading at the Hayley Stadium.