STtaff at an Oxford hospice have a new Mini to visit patients living in the community, thanks to radio listeners.

The vehicle was handed over to Helen and Douglas House chief executive Tom Hill, pictured, by Heart Breakfast presenter Michelle Jordan, pictured left with Helen House visitor Rosie Simmens.

The money was raised through the Have a Heart Appeal, which collected £330,000 for Children’s Hospices UK.

As well as Helen and Douglas House, a further 27 hospices have also received new cars from the cash.

Mr Hill said: “Being able to offer specialist support and care to families both within the hospice houses and out in the community is very important to Helen and Douglas House.

“The generosity of Heart listeners means our teams have a vehicle to reach more families, wherever they need that support, and this will make a real difference.”

And Ms Jordan added: “The work Helen and Douglas House does is truly inspiring and we are delighted to support them.”

UK sales of the Cowley-built Mini took another leap in September, latest figures have revealed.

Statistics from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show 9,690 cars were sold, a rise of more than 28 per cent on the same month last year.

And for the year to date, 38,147 new Minis have found owners, more than 16 per cent ahead of the same period in 2010.