Costello with her 2016 race bikes. By Tremaine Gregg.

Leading engineering company The European Shoe Machinery Co. Ltd is to continue its sponsorship of Northamptonshire's motorbike racer Maria Costello MBE as it celebrates its 20th year.

The Kettering-based company has become arguably the world's leading expert on USM and BUSM Goodyear Welted Machinery, with every component, screw, bolt and spare part manufactured in its state-­of-­the-­art engineering facility in Kettering.

Founded in 1996 by Roberto Petrozzi, the company has continued to grow, even though a tough recession that demonstrated that a commitment to excellence pays off.

“We have a real passion for what we do and feel really privileged to be working with some of the world's most famous footwear brands.” said Petrozzi.

Roberto also has a passion for motorcycle racing and has been supporting local racer, Costello, since 2012 and they are continuing that backing as Maria looks ahead to a busy 2016.

Costello said: 

'It means a lot to have a local sponsor who has such an important role in the shoe industry, the industry my town was built on. So I'm proud to wear their logo.'

Petrozzi, a keen motorcycling enthusiast, said: 

'We enjoy our association with Maria. She is more than just a motorcycle racer, she is a role model that challenges gender stereotyping and supports women in a male dominated arena. That is something we commend as a company as we also encourage women in to engineering.

This year ESM launches its own service and maintenance programmes to help manufacturers reduce machinery downtime. For further information call 01536 483583 or email info@tesmc.com.

Follow Maria’s progress via her website http://www.costelloracing.com, follow her on Twitter @MariaCostello or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/Maria-Costello-Racing.

2016 Sponsors:

The European Shoe Machinery Company Ltd, NGK Spark Plugs, Hol-Taj, BMW Motorrad UK, Wollaston BMW, Rock Oil, Arai, Wilbers, Vmtek Suspension, Jap4Performance, CPL Print Ltd, Premier Bodyworks, Radicool, EBC Brakes, Signs2Wraps, Kawasaki UK Ltd, GBRacing, Knox, HEL Performance, Racebikebitz, Samco hoses, Daytona Boots, Pipercross, APC Wet Paint Ltd, Christian Baker, CrossFit East Northants, DnG, Trilogy Gyms, Bespoke Injury Management, Progrips, Promach, Skidmarx, The Joseph’s Experience, Towergate insurance, http://www.tonicwebworks.com, Race Print Artwork & Design, Ymark Paintwork, Sparkes Management Support, CHI Fire Solutions Ltd, Wiz knee sliders, Stomp Grip & SKINS.