Monstermob keeps VK kick.

Following on from a successful inaugural sortie into the British Superbike Championship last season, drinks giants VK Vodka Kick have renewed their allegiance with double champions MonsterMob Ducati for the 2004 season.

The Derbyshire based company was invited by team owner Paul Bird to supply products for hospitality purposes last year - by way of an introduction to the sport - but managing director Steve Perez soon saw the appeal of BSB and decided to invest in the team as well.

"It's all part of our policy of bringing outside sponsors into the series and VK Vodka Kick fits the bill perfectly," explained Bird. "Like us, they are established, ambitious and professional and we intend to give them the recognition they deserve this year."

Having not attended a Superbike meeting before, Perez made his 'debut' at the Donington Park 2003 series finale, a visit which helped convince him to increase his company's involvement for 2004.

"We at VK are delighted to be involved with the UK's top Superbike Team for a second year running," added Perez. "I was impressed with the professionalism of the team and the vast following of BSB, I fully expect Paul Bird's VK backed MonsterMob Ducati team to once again win the championship, however Birdy will be expected to follow team orders on the rallying front!"

Indeed, the sponsorship will extend to Bird's rallying exploits - for which he has recently purchased a new works specification Ford Focus World Rally Car, in order to contest the National Championship.

Perez himself is one of the country's top drivers and owns a similar specification car, so the pair will be battling it out over the summer on the various events that comprise the ANCRO series.

Monstermob Ducati will field Sean Emmett and Michael Laverty in the British Superbike and Supersport championships respectively.