Carl Wilkinson will be back in Newport Wasps' colours next summer - and speedway promoter Tim Stone is delighted the 24-year-old is returning.

Wilkinson's decision may come as a surprise to fans because last season the Newport asset had a successful time with Berwick who were always in the chase for the Premier League crown.

Wilkinson also made the big decision to ride full time after beginning the season with Conference outfit Boston who rescued his career when he was facing a spell out of the sport.

And his last season at Newport was far from memorable. He was even forced to take a break when he hit horrible mechanical problems which brought with it financial burdens.

But that is all behind him and his two appearances at the Hayley Stadium last summer brought him double figure scores, one while guesting for the Wasps - at home to the Isle of Wight, scoring ten points from six rides in a 50-40 defeat - and earlier riding for Berwick who were beaten 49-41, Wilkinson top scoring with 11 points from six rides at reserve.

Stone said: "I think the fans will be pleased that 'Wilko' is back. He is a very exciting rider and is now more polished and quicker. He is also an overtaker and with Neil Collins also returning we have two riders in the same, exciting mould.

"He is looking forward to riding here once more and now it is all systems go."

Wilkinson, an aggressive rider with a touch of the Frank Smart about him, should provide a little more backbone to the seven-strong team. Many thought the make-up of the team would be pretty straightforward, despite such a disappointing season, but that's not so.

The announcement of 'Wilko's' return has spiced up things and fans will look forward to the next announcement with greater expectation.

l Jason King, who made a handful of appearances for the Wasps last season, has joined Premier League newcomers Mildenhall.

l Mavericks rider Danny Warwick took second place behind Mark Jones in an Australian meeting, finishing on 11 points, one adrift of Jones. Karlis Ezergailis gained seven points and Tyron Proctor five.