A popular striker has re-signed for Folkestone on an undisclosed fee from National League Bromley.

David Smith, 24, returns to the Isthmian Premier outfit just over a year after he made the move to Hayes Lane following a goal-filled two years at Cheriton Road, in which he netted 41 goals in 72 appearances despite Covid pandemic disruptions.

The news comes a day after it was revealed a new consortium of businesses had taken over the day-to-day running of Invicta. They host Brightlingsea tonight.

“Edgy [joint-boss Roland Edge] and I are delighted to be able to welcome Dave back to the club,” joint-head coach Micheal Everitt told Invicta’s website.

“We were disappointed to lose him last summer. He was an integral part of the team with 41 goals in 72 appearances for the club and that was a big loss.

“We feel we weren’t clinical enough as a team throughout last season at important times during games. Adding Dave to our attacking unit, with his proven goalscoring record, can rectify that.

“We have to thank [director of football] Neil Cugley, [new chairman] Josh Healey and our sponsors at Alcaline for their hard work and patience in making this deal happen.

“Dave’s a good lad and we have, obviously, stayed in contact with him since he left and we are looking forward to seeing him back out on the pitch tonight in black and amber, as we are sure all our supporters will be.”

Chairman Josh Healey added: “The signing of David Smith is one Neil and the management team have been working on for a while.

“A few clubs were interested but he was key to our plans and he was keen to join, so we’re pleased all round.

“We’re aiming to build a squad that can be competitive in the league and it was important we added a goalscorer of David’s ability. I’m looking forward to watching him in a Folkestone shirt.

“I’d like to thank the Bromley chairman, Robin Stanton-Gleaves, and his management team for their assistance and cooperation in this deal.

“Furthermore, thank you to Alcaline, our commercial partners, for making this signing possible.’’

Smith also spent time on loan with rivals Margate and Hornchurch - where Ade Yusuff, whom Smith enjoyed a successful strike partnership with previously at Folkestone, now plays - last term.

Invicta visit National League South Dover, one of Smith’s old clubs, this Saturday.