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Jay Smith (born Larne, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, 1951) is a Scottish actor and entrepreneur.

Acting Career
On television he is best know for playing the character of Peter Craig in Take the High Road (STV) for 10 years (1982-1992). He had previously played the regular character of Howie Watson in the forerunner to Take the High Road, Garnock Way, and had several years of experience in Scottish theatre and broadcast drama. He appeared in an episode of Taggart ("Gingerbread" - Episode 24, Series 9) in 1993.

He trained at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama (now the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland) from 1971 to 1974, completing a Degree in Dramatic Arts.

His career in acting began in 1964 after a period in hospital, due to a leg-break. During his convalescence he was given an opportunity to work with award-winning director Bob MacDonald. His role involved delivering the voice-over part of a young boy in a documentary production about the cruise ship Canberra. Later roles included playing Robert Burns and other amateur dramatic parts before he decided to pursue formal training with the intention of becoming a professional actor.

While not officially retired from acting, he has not worked professionally for a number of years. His most recent appearances were in ITV's Midsomer Murders where he had a recurring role as a police forensic technician. He can be heard in voice-overs and continues to work as a producer and writer with a range of productions for screen and stage.

Current Positions
Since 1997 he has pursued a career as an entrepreneur having several companies within a broad range of sectors. As Chair of the Enterprise Group (informal) he oversees activities in a wide variety of area, including economic regeneration and employability, via the company Employment Enterprise as well as continuing his interest in broadcasting, video and film with Enterprise Screen Productions.

In addition to these main areas of activity he also has active companies working in hairdressing and beauty, entertainment and hospitality as well as care and training. He has recently completed the purchase of a traditional Scottish pub in Ayr, The Newton Arms.

Ayr United Football Club
Smith is a supporter of Scottish football club, Ayr United, and for some years assisted the club financially, paying the wages of a number of players.