BOSSES at the Cowley Mini plant continue to be optimistic about the future, despite new figures which show a continuing decline in sales.

Statistics for the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders today show the 2,650 cars were sold in the UK during May, compared to 3,429 for the same month last year, a drop of more than 22 per cent while year on year sales have fallen by more than 32 per cent.

But with overall car sales down almost 25 per cent on last year, the Mini has marginally increased its increased its share of the UK market and was actually the seventh best selling car in the country last month.

Mini spokesman Dan Connell said: “There has been an upturn in sales because we now have a complete product line-up including three derivatives of the new Convertible.

“The 50th birthday celebrations for Mini have also re-invigorated interest in the brand and we will be introducing two new special anniversary models in the next three months which will be significant.”

Last week the Oxford Mail revealed how the plant was recruiting 250 temporary staff to fill extra shifts for the for at least the next three months after an upswing in demand — just three months after it cut 850 staff due to falling sales.

Mr Connell added: “The important point is that we are bringing the right products to market even in the downturn, so that when there are signs of recovery, we are well placed to benefit.”

Further market momentum will come from the next new Mini model, the Austrian-built Crossover four wheel drive will be introduced at the end of next year, while another concept is due to be shown at the Frankfurt motor show in September.

Mini is also set to benefit from the effects of the Government’s scrappage scheme which sees owners of cars older than ten years old given £2,000 off the price of a new vehicle when they trade it in.