Costello reached an average speed of 114.7mph around the TT track in 2003

Northampton's Maria Costello has revealed her delight at becoming an MBE for her services to motorcycling in the Queen's Birthday Honours list.

The 31-year-old found out the news while working at the Isle of Man TT.

"I am so humbled by this honour. It's amazing to receive it for services to motorcycling," she said.

"Motorbikes have been my life and I feel like this award gives something back not only to me but to all those involved in motorcycling."

She continued: "It's great recognition for the sport too, I hope we see more females on motorbikes and in racing."

In 2004, Costello became the fastest female solo rider in TT history recording an average speed of over 114mph around the Mountain Course.

Her record was finally beaten by Jenny Tinmouth at the 2009 event.

When she was 28, Costello made history again when she became the first female solo rider to finish on the podium in a race around the TT course, finishing third in the ultra lightweight MGP class on a Honda RVF400.

Costello continued: "My family are so proud and even my mum, who wasn't so keen on me starting racing is fully behind me for this year's Manx Grand Prix.

"I'm reinvigorated by the MBE, although I won't believe it until I meet the Queen, I can't wait to get back on the TT course and put the VRS Performance Kawasaki 600 and my Honda RVF400 through their paces."

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