UK SALES of the Cowley-built Mini rose by more than 75 per cent in April over the same month in 2009, the latest figures have revealed.

The statistics from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show 2,869 cars were sold, compared to 1,633 for April last year.

And for the first four months of 2010, 13,896 cars have been sold compared to 10,107 last year – a rise of 37 per cent.

Globally, figures from BMW show 67,250 cars have been sold up to the end of April, a rise of 10.4 per cent year on year.

BMW board member Ian Robertson said: “We are in an excellent position and remain confident for the next months.”