Sales of the Cowley-built Mini have continued to soar in the UK, latest figures have revealed.

Statistics from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show 7,919 cars were sold in March, compared to 5,976 for the same month last year, a rise of more than 32 per cent.

The surge made Mini the eighth best-selling car in the country, ahead of the VW Polo and Renault Megane.

Overall, 11,027 cars have been sold in the UK this year, more than 30 per cent more than the first three months of 2009.