UK sales of the Cowley-built Mini rose by more than seven per cent last month, latest figures have revealed.

Statistics produced by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) revealed 1,260 cars found new owners in February, compared to 1,173 in the same month last year.

In the first two months of the year 2,855 cars have been sold compared to 2,787 in 2011, up 2.4 per cent.

Nationally, new car registrations fell 2.5 per cent in February to 61,868 units.

SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: “The February new car market was broadly in line with industry expectations with a welcome increase in private retail activity.

“The March market will provide a much better indicator of industry health than the relatively low volumes traditionally seen in February.

“It is extremely important the chancellor uses this month’s Budget to strengthen consumer and business confidence by encouraging private sector investment and avoiding any further squeeze on living standards.”