PLYMOUTH Devils have made their first new signing of the post-season with the capture of former Oxford captain Lee Smethills.

The 27-year-old, who has also ridden for, among others, Exeter, Glasgow and Sheffield, competed against Plymouth this year.

Smethills ended the 2009 season with Devils' National League rivals Weymouth Wildcats.

But Devils chief Mike Bowden has moved quickly to snap up a rider he has always admired.

With Kyle Hughes having left the city outfit for Rye House last month, there was at least one vacancy in the Plymouth line-up.

And Bowden feels Smethills can more than prove an adequate deputy for the now departed Hughes.

"Lee didn't, by his own standards, have a great season in 2009," said Bowden, who has also agreed terms with Seemond Stephens, Mark Simmonds and Paul Starke to return next year.

"But he has ridden in the Premier League and he is still a quality rider.

"You don't become a bad rider overnight and I have every confidence in Lee next year that he will go on to enjoy a successful season."

Bowden added: "I expect big things from Lee in 2010 and I am sure he can deliver on the track.

"He will take the place of Kyle and he will fill more than adequately.

"I think the supporters will see next season just what a good rider Lee is."

Meanwhile, Bowden has confirmed that season ticket prices for the 2010 National League campaign will remain frozen from this year.

An adult season ticket will cost £160, while it is £80 for OAPs and children aged under-16.