Category: Mini News

Design Your Own Futuristic MINI Electric.

We’re inspiring kids to unleash their creativity in our minds… with Crayola Competition.

At MINI we believe the future’s bright – and that everyone’s life should be full of colour. That’s why we’ve partnered with Crayola, and together we’re inviting the next generation to create the MINI Electric of the future. After all, they’ll be the ones who actually make it happen.

Is your child ready to get creative? It’s fun, it’s inspiring, it’s what MINI Electric and Crayola are all about.

LET’S TAKE THESE CRAYONS FOR A SPIN.

Children aged 4-10 are invited to download and print the MINI Electric template below to unleash their creativity. If that isn’t awesome enough, the winner of our favourite design will even get a VIP tour of MINI Plant Oxford, to see their vision come to life on a real MINI Electric. How many kids can say they’ve designed an electric car?!

Want a cherry on top? The winner’s school will also get a big bundle of Crayola goodies to enjoy.*

Please seek permission from your parent/guardian before entering this competition and ask them to submit your entry for you.
*Disclaimer: we take no responsibility if they’re the most popular kid in class.

THE BORING BITS (FOR THE GROWN UPS).

  1. Download the template and print it out.
  2. Your child uses crayons to create their perfect MINI Electric of the future. There’s also a description box for them (or you) to add a bit more detail about the idea. Remember to include the name of your child’s school, too.
  3. Take pictures of the design (or scan it) and email it us at mini.minds@popcornpr.co.uk. The competition is open from 18th September to 16th October 2023.
  4. Our combined MINI and Crayola judging panel will decide on the winner based on the ‘vision of the future’ brief.
  5. The winner will receive a tour of MINI Plant Oxford and get to see a MINI Electric wrapped in their design. Crayola goodies will also be sent to the winners’ school.

Please note: All entrant’s artwork and their child’s first name may be used for promotional purposes. It is also a condition of accepting the prize that the winner takes part in a photoshoot with the wrapped MINI Electric.

Terms and conditions apply. Click here.

EXPLORE THE REAL-LIFE MINI ELECTRIC.

If all this has inspired you almost as much as your child, how about taking a look at the MINI Electric itself? You get to enjoy that trademark go-kart handling while emitting zero driving emissions. And if you’d like to check how it fits you and your family, you can book an extended 24-hour test drive. We predict smiles for miles. 

Iconic design: Tick. Go-kart feeling: Always. Meet the new all-electric MINI family. 

THE NEW ALL-ELECTRIC MINI COOPER.

Going into its fifth model generation, the MINI Cooper 3-door still embodies the core of the brand. As an all-electric vehicle, the new MINI is available in the Cooper E variant and as the Cooper SE, featuring higher output and range. Within the new MINI family, “Cooper” refers to all MINI 3-door and 5-door models, and also the MINI Convertible. It is no longer used as an engine specification. The classic round headlights and the striking octagonal grille are the dominant features of the front section, making the model the characteristic face of MINI.

The distinctively structured bonnet contributes to the intriguing surface design. Black side sills visually move the all-electric MINI Cooper closer to the road. Four different trims – Essential, Classic, Favoured and JCW – serve the purpose of differentiation, each giving the new MINI its own distinct character.

THE NEW ALL-ELECTRIC MINI COUNTRYMAN.

Higher, longer, MINI – with an additional six centimetres in height and thirteen centimetres in length, the new MINI Countryman has grown noticeably compared to its predecessor, offering even more space and comfort. Wider wheel arches and a clear, modern design enhance the crossover aesthetic appeal of the rugged MINI adventurer. The elegant design of the C-pillar differs according to the vehicle trim and is based on one of the vehicle’s four roof colours. The upright shape of the new Matrix taillights frame the rear of the vehicle. Below the model lettering, the body tapers across the entire width and, together with the striking, all-round vehicle band in black, emphasises the enhanced presence of the new MINI Countryman.

For more information, or to regsiter your interest, please fill out the enquiry form or contact your local Bowker MINI Centre. 

Bowker MINI, with centres in Blackburn and Preston, has continued its commitment to environmental conservation by partnering with the Ribble Rivers Trust for two community events. 

The latest collaborations were part of the MINI UK Big Love campaign, which encourages MINI retailers nationwide to establish strong connections with their local communities through Big Love pledges.

In Burnley, Bowker MINI teamed up with Ribble Rivers Trust to tackle the invasive Himalayan Balsam at Haggs Wood. 

The event saw volunteer staff and customers working together to improve river flow and mitigate flood risks at key spots on the riverbanks. The invasive plant species, with its rapid growth, threatens native flora, leading to reduced biodiversity, soil erosion, and impaired water quality.

Daniel Gibson at Bowker MINI said: “Thank you to everyone who joined us to help with the fight against the Himalayan Balsam. Our collaboration with Ribble Rivers Trust continues to be a meaningful highlight of our commitment to Big Love and environmental conservation.”

Meanwhile, in Preston, a community litter pick was organised along Eaves Brook. Seven volunteers collected over 50 bags of litter, including rusty mattresses, sofas, toilets and a Christmas tree. At the event, participants removed litter and plastic waste from the river and surrounding areas, contributing to the protection of local wildlife and the enhancement of the ecosystem.

Peter Turner, for Bowker MINI, said: “It was hard work. But it was worth it. I think we were really surprised by the kind of things people dump needlessly. You can’t imagine the kind of rubbish people throw away in such a beautiful spot.

“Hopefully, we made a difference. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the litter-picking event. Our collaboration with Ribble Rivers Trust continues to be a highlight of our commitment to Big Love and environmental conservation.”

The Ribble Rivers Trust, based in Clitheroe, is a dedicated charity working to improve, protect, and promote the River Ribble for the benefit of both people and wildlife. They collaborate with various public and private organisations to implement river improvement projects across the Ribble catchment area.

 

Jack Spees, CEO of The Ribble Rivers Trust, said: “Our volunteers are vital to the success of our conservation projects. We’re thrilled that Bowker MINI staff were able to help us with the fight against Himalayan Balsam at Haggs Wood in Burnley and litter picking at Eaves Brook in Preston.”

Bowker MINI’s dedication to conservation efforts creates a lasting and positive impact on the environment and local communities. For those interested in volunteering with The Ribble Rivers Trust, more information can be found at ribbletrust.org.uk/volunteer.

We are delighted to have officially switched on 1600 new solar panels across our dealership roofs in Blackburn and Preston. 

The new panels will allow our Centres to generate a quarter of our electricity from solar energy and reduce their carbon footprint by 130 tonnes!

The official solar panel switch-on was in recognition of Earth Day on Saturday, 22 April 2023. 

Our Director, Jonathan Rogan, said: “It was perfect timing that Earth Day followed so soon after installing the new panels. We officially celebrated the switch on and joined other businesses across the globe to raise awareness of climate issues.

“Our new investment will significantly impact reducing our carbon footprint. As a company, we’re committed to leading the way in environmentally-friendly business practices. And we hope to inspire our staff, customers and others in the community about important environmental issues.”

Bowker has invested in sustainable energy before. In 2012, our Blackburn dealership installed 210 solar panels, making it the first car dealership in Lancashire to adopt solar energy. Since then, these panels have saved the company money and reduced carbon emissions by 500 tonnes.

Bowker Motor Group’s ongoing commitment to sustainability was also recognised by BMW UK after recently receiving the first-ever National Retailer Award for Sustainability. Read more here.

Earth Day is an annual event promoting environmental protection and raising awareness about our planet’s threats. This day is marked by various activities such as rallies, community clean-ups, and educational programs to encourage people to take action to protect the environment. 

BMW Group UK has added Pod Point as a preferred EV home chargepoint supplier for MINI retail customers, further enhancing home charging services for retail customers.

Pod Point have entered into a three-year agreement to allow MINI customers to receive an offer of a home charger consultation and installation by Pod Point’s expert team.

This partnership will also allow MINI customers an increased access to Pod Point’s vast network of National charge points, bringing over 6,200 additional charging bays, allowing you to seamlessly connect to over 11,000 electric vehicle charging stations in the UK. 

The MINI Electric and Plug-in Hybrid range offers drivers the option of a more sustainable driving experience without sacrificing the go-kart feel that MINI is known for. Both the MINI Electric and Plug-in Hybrid range are capable of driving in all-electric mode, producing zero emissions. With a range of up to 140-145 miles on a single charge for the MINI Electric and up to 26 miles of pure electric driving for the Plug-in Hybrid models, these vehicles are ideal for urban commuting and short trips. Plus, their compact size and agile handling make them perfect for navigating city streets and tight parking spots.

Bowker MINI had a fantastic time at Lancashire Business Expo 2023. The annual expo, held on Friday, 24th March, at Preston Guild Hall, attracted over 1,600 visitors.

The team from Bowker MINI offered advice on electric and hybrid fleet benefits, with information on EV range, performance, and cost savings. They also had a team of experts on hand to answer questions and provide one-on-one consultations.

Bowker MINI was one of over 120 exhibitors and exhibition partners showcasing their businesses, a new record for exhibition stand sales and visitor registrations.

Bowker MINI marketing manager, Amy Lancaster-Hall, said, “What a great event! The Lancashire Business Expo is always a fantastic opportunity to meet other local businesses. Thank you to Shout Expo for their hard work, and congratulations on delivering another memorable event.”

Director of Shout Expo, Jordan Conlin, echoed the positive sentiment: “This year’s LBE was off the scale – so much fun. Preston Guild Hall was buzzing. We’re all exhausted, but we’re already excited about 2024! A huge thanks to all our partners and exhibitors who made the expo such a huge success and to the visitors who came along to see what the fuss is all about and give our exhibitors the chance to showcase their services.”

The Lancashire Business Expo has established itself as an important annual event for businesses in the region, combining exhibition stands, networking opportunities, and interactive activities.

For more information and reactions to this year’s Lancashire Business Expo, search for #LBE2023 across social channels.

Bowker MINI staff have volunteered with the Ribble Rivers Trust planting trees as part of the MINI UK Big Love campaign. The tree planting took place off Spring Lane in Samlesbury as part of the trust’s ongoing conservation efforts to improve the River Ribble and its tributaries.

Prepared with sturdy footwear, waterproofs, and a packed lunch, seven staff planted over 400 saplings. The planting focused on an area near Nabs Head in Samlesbury. The trees will help to reduce flood risk of the River Darwen, a River Ribble tributary, and aid carbon capture.

Bowker MINI’s volunteering commitment is part of a national initiative launched by MINI UK last year called Big Love. This ongoing campaign encourages MINI retailers nationwide to establish strong connections with their local communities by creating unique Big Love pledges. This initiative motivates centres to collaborate with local organisations like The Ribble Rivers Trust to provide help and support.

Jonathan Rogan, Head of Business, commented, “Thank you to everyone who turned up for a fantastic tree planting day. Since last year, our collaboration with the Ribble Rivers Trust has become a volunteering highlight. Despite the weather, this latest event is another example of how our volunteering and charity partnerships make life at Bowker MINI so unique.”

The collaboration between Bowker MINI and The Ribble Rivers Trust began last year when Bowker MINI centres on Preston Docks and Trident Park, Blackburn, dedicated staff time to volunteer for the local charity. The centres also encouraged MINI owners to participate in volunteering activities.

Bowker MINI staff volunteers have been actively involved in several conservation tasks within the Ribble catchment area, including tree planting, clean-ups, fencing, and brash building using wood from fallen trees.

Amy Lancaster-Hall, Group Marketing Manager, added, “The Ribble Rivers Trust offers a wide range of activities for our staff to participate in, ensuring there’s something for everyone. We’ll continue promoting conservation efforts at our Centre and encourage our MINI owners to join us in volunteering too!”

The Ribble Rivers Trust is a Clitheroe-based charity working tirelessly to improve, protect, and promote the River Ribble for people and wildlife. The Trust collaborates with various public and private organisations to implement river improvement projects across the Ribble catchment area, benefiting local communities and the environment.

Jack Spees, CEO of The Ribble Rivers Trust, said: “Our volunteers are vital to the success of our conservation projects. Volunteering is an amazing way to enjoy the outdoors, meet new people, and learn new skills. We’re thrilled that Bowker MINI staff were able to help us with the tree planting in Samlesbury.”

If you’re interested in volunteering for The Ribble Rivers Trust can find more information by visiting ribbletrust.org.uk/volunteer/.

Charged up, roof down and ready to go.

Following the positive feedback on the one-off presented in summer 2022, MINI is going ahead with a small series of all-electric MINI Convertible, representing another big step in the direction of electric mobility.

“Three years ago, we launched the MINI Electric, and today one in five MINI models sold in Europe is an all-electric MINI. This success has spurred us to implement the small series of the MINI Electric Convertible within only a few months. I’m delighted that we can offer 999 MINI customers an extraordinary and exclusive open-air go-kart feeling,” says Stefanie Wurst, Head of the MINI Brand.

With only 150 exclusive to the UK, the MINI Electric Convertible will be offered with a fixed specification and two exterior paint choices for customers: Enigmatic Black or White Silver. 

It also showcases edition-specific 17” Electric Power Spoke 2-tone alloy wheels, made from 100 per cent secondary aluminum. The combination of green electricity during production and the use of the secondary raw material, significantly reduces CO2 emissions compared to conventional manufacturing processes.

For the interior, MINI Yours sports seats in Leather Lounge design offer seat heating and adjustable thigh support, while the multifunctional sports steering wheel – finished in Nappa leather – is also heated and features the MINI Electric logo. Interior surfaces are finished in Piano Black, while ambient lighting and signature MINI Electric yellow colour accents, such as the start-stop toggle switch, complete the interior design.

Premium interior materials are complemented by eDrive services, providing the driver with current energy consumption, range, and tips for economical driving, all displayed on the MINI Head-Up Display. On longer journeys, the Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, and MINI Driving Assistant enhance comfort.

For more information or to register your interest, please complete the enquiry form on this page and we’ll be in touch. Click here to view our Centre opening hours.

Our employees and customers spread Big Love for Santa’s little yelpers in 2022 by donating a bumper bundle of goodies for homeless dogs in the region. 

For several weeks, motorists in Lancashire had been Dachshund through the snow to drop off donations at our MINI centres in Blackburn and Preston. 

Donated items included tinned meats and treats as well as dog toys, towels and bedding. The gifts have now been delivered to the Dogs Trust in Denton near Manchester.

For Bowker MINI, Marketing Executive Jess O’Neill said: “Thank you to all our customers who have donated so generously.  The gift donation is part of an ongoing partnership between MINI and The Dogs Trust. It also reflects our Big Love commitment by each of our centres to make a difference in our local community. Thanks to MINI owners’ kindness, many dogs in need will be enjoying a happier Christmas this year.”

We are proud that MINI is the first Dogs Trust-supported, dog-friendly car retailer in the country. Training each centre is part of MINI UK’s mission to make showrooms as accessible as possible – including for devoted dog owners and their companions. 

Earlier this year, our Centres became the first MINI Centres in Lancashire to be certified dog friendly by the Dogs Trust. Our staff are trained for every aspect of engaging with dogs who visit, including greeting, health and safety, managing tricky situations, safe car travel and best car options for dog owners. 

For more information on our partnership with Dogs Trust, contact your local Bowker MINI Centre or fill out the enquiry form on this page. 

Bowker MINI is spearheading an environmental drive to make all its processes paperless; and has already eliminated all but 95% of its paper transactions and communications.

Family-owned Bowker Motor Group’s paperless mission was pioneered by the group’s sales team in their centres in Blackburn and Preston. The company’s aftersales department has now followed their lead in going completely paperless. The remaining departments will soon follow suit.

The paper-free changes means that the customer experience at Bowker is now completely digital – using computer screens and tablets to share information. The information is then stored securely and digitally instead of as physical documents.

Stewart Rose, Bowker Group service manager, said: “With the introduction of paperless processes, we all learned to adapt the way we work. It didn’t take long for the benefits to all staff and customers to become clear. Digitised documents are much easier to search for and find. It’s speeding all our processes up, too. All our transactions are now completed on tablets.”

Bowker Motor Group has partnered with Keyloop to introduce new paperless processes. Keyloop provides dealer management systems in over 90 countries. Its technology connects over 250,000 product users and 18,000 retail sites. The secure open platform links retailers, manufacturers, partners, and customers to provide a seamless automotive retail and service experience.

In addition to the improved customer experience Bowker’s paperless drive is delivering other business benefits too. Digital storage saves space and time, boosts security and helps the environment.  Manufacturing paper products produce greenhouse gases, causing deforestation and global warming.

Stewart Rose adds: “Our new paperless processes help continue our company’s commitment to the environment. We also monitor how we recycle packaging and waste; conserve energy and use more electric vehicles – it all adds up! The energy crisis and Global climate emergency has encouraged us to focus on what all businesses need to do to make a difference.”

Bowker Motor Group’s long-held environmental focus began more than 15 years ago when they recycled glass, cardboard and even rubber tyres to be reconstituted for re-use including flooring for children’s playgrounds.

From everyone here at Bowker MINI, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! We’re here for you at the following times over the festive period:

Thursday 22 December
Sales 8.30am to 6pm | Aftersales 8am to 5.30pm

Friday 23 December
Sales 8.30am to 1pm | Aftersales 8am to 1pm

Saturday 24 – Tuesday 27 December
CLOSED

Wednesday 28 – Friday 30 December
Sales 8.30am to 6pm | Aftersales 8am to 5.30pm

Friday 30 December
Sales 8.30am to 6pm | Aftersales 8am to 5.30pm

Saturday 31 – Monday 2 January
CLOSED

Tuesday 3 January
Sales 8.30am to 6pm | Aftersales 8am to 5.30pm

To make an enquiry or request a call back, please Click Here to contact us.

At Bowker MINI it’s no secret we’re crazy about dogs. Which is why, yesterday, we hosted our first Howl-Oween dog walk for our MINI Owners at Black Bull Inn – Old Langho. The morning saw a gathering of menacing MINI’s, ghoulish grown-ups, little monsters and fang-tastic fury friends.

We returned to the Black Bull Inn where we all enjoyed a complimentary breakfast sandwich (yummy bacon butties) & hot beverage. 

Prizes were given out for the best costumes in the following categories:

  • Little Monsters (Kids)
  • Fang-tastic Fury Friends
  • Ghoulish Grown-ups
  • #Squadghouls (Family)
  • Most Menacing MINI

We were delighted to partner with Dogs Trust to raise a collection of items needed for the dogs at their centres – courtesy of our generous dog-loving MINI Owners.

Thank you to all that attended and made it such a wonderful morning! 

IN THE YELLOW CORNER…

Introducing our striking new MINI 5-Door Hatch in Zesty Yellow. This car is sure to turn heads while adding a splash of colour to the roads. 

Our MINI’s now come with Premium Pack and Automatic Transmission as standard plus a boot-load of extra features and cool tech to make each drive even more MINI. See below to see what you can get with this amazing ‘not so little’ car. There’s more than meets the eye.

All options in package

  • ISOFIX Child Seat System
  • Flexible CarSharing Preparation
  • Alarm System
  • Ambient Lighting
  • Rear Parking Sensors
  • Apple CarPlay preparation
  • Rear-view Mirror with Auto dimming
  • Electric Folding Door Mirrors
  • DAB Radio
  • Automatic Air Conditioning
  • Sport Automatic DTC Transmission
  • Additional Interior Lighting
  • Front Heated Seats
  • Storage Pack
  • MINI Driving Modes
  • MINI TeleServices
  • Comfort Access
  • MINI Emergency Call
  • Cruise Control
Play Video

Order your 72 plate at Bowker today. Whichever model you choose, they all have one thing in common: joyful go-kart handling, timeless design features & cool tech.

To find out more about our range of offers and book a test drive*, call 01772 761234 or 01254 274333 today or click the button below. Who’s in?

Terms and Conditions

*Test drive subject to availability and driver eligibility.

On Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 August, our teams at Bowker MINI in Preston and Blackburn hosted their first events to support conservation and environmental improvements on the River Ribble and its associated tributaries. 

At both events, staff joined forces with their customers to volunteer for Ribble Rivers Trust. Whilst neither centre is a stranger to working with charities, it was the first time they had collaborated with customers to work together on local conservation.

Bowker MINI in Preston focused on removing as much litter as possible at the River Ribble in Penwortham, Preston, to help free the river and riverbanks from waste and plastic and preventing it from reaching the sea.

Bowker MINI in Blackburn went brash bundling along Bashall Brook, near Bashall Eaves. Brash bundles are used to protect the riverbank from further erosion. Bundles are created from coppiced Willows and act as natural barriers, dispersing the energy of the river water, and providing habitat for fish and invertebrates.

For Bowker MINI, Amy Lancaster-Hall, Group Marketing Manager, said: “MINI is built on Big Love, and we’re on a mission to make life brighter. Two little words with the power to inspire a world of change. Many of our staff and customers live locally and enjoy the Lancashire countryside for recreation and leisure pursuits. Ribble Rivers Trust created two great events. We learned so much about their mission and this is just the start of our volunteering with them.”

Last month Bowker MINI made their Big Love Pledge to deliver conservation improvements in the Ribble catchment to benefit people, wildlife and the environment.

Bowker MINI has collaborated with Ribble Rivers Trust to create the volunteer events. Ribble Rivers Trust is involved in a number of important conservation activities in the Ribble catchment area. Volunteers will be involved in organised support which may include tree planting, clean ups, fencing, and brash building using wood from fallen trees.

Jack Spees, chief executive for Ribble Rivers Ribble Trust, said: “Thank you to Bowker MINI staff and customers for joining us on two of our conservation events. Volunteers are incredibly important to us. They are a vital work force in helping to deliver improvement to the environment, and the eyes and ears of this vast area! 

“Bowker MINI staff and customers made a huge difference by collecting litter and plastic in Penwortham and brash bundling in Bashall Eaves. It was the perfect blend of the great outdoors and meeting like-minded people; not forgetting gaining experience and learning new skills. 

“The events we created for Bowker MINI represent a small but important part of the Trust’s work. With over 3,114 miles of rivers and streams in the catchment there is always a lot to do.”

The Bowker MINI volunteering pledge forms part of a national initiative launched by MINI UK called Big Love. MINI retailers nationally have submitted a unique Big Love pledge. Each pledge is an ongoing commitment to each retailer’s local community. This simple promise encourages centres to build partnerships with local organisations, like Ribble Rivers Trust, to deliver help and support.

Ribble Rivers Trust is a local charity working to improve, protect and promote the River Ribble for both people and wildlife.  Based in Clitheroe, the Trust works with the public and private organisations to deliver river improvements. Projects can take place across the entire Ribble catchment for the benefit of local people and the environment.

If you’re interested in volunteering for Ribble Rivers Trust, find out more by visiting https://ribbletrust.org.uk/volunteer/

Bowker MINI centres in Blackburn and Preston have become the first MINI centres in Lancashire to be certified dog friendly by the Dogs’ Trust.

Bowker MINI staff were trained for every aspect of engaging with dogs who visit their centres including greeting, health and safety, managing tricky situations, safe car travel and best car options for dog owners.

MINI is the first Dogs’ Trust-supported, dog-friendly car retailer in the country. Training each centre is part of MINI UK’s mission to make showrooms as accessible as possible – including for devoted dog owners and their companions.

For Bowker MINI, new dog-friendly champion, Jane Cross said: “Many of our drivers own or love dogs. I think the boot space, handling and low base makes them a good option for dog owners. You can even get an optional Pet Pack with a guard and mat.

“It was a surprise to hear that we were the first in Lancashire. It was a fun course. And we can’t wait to welcome even more motorists and their dogs now that we are certified dog friendly by the Dogs’ Trust.”

The latest accolade for Bowker MINI follows on from last year’s victory in a national competition to produce and share a creative video. The video starred a Lancashire rescue dog called George. George, abandoned by previous owners, made his acting debut in the video that celebrated the feeling motorists get when they collect a new car.

Nationally, the MINI Clubman won ‘Dog friendly car of the year’ at the News UK Motor Awards 2021.

As part of the MINI ‘Big Love’ campaign, Bowker MINI on Preston Docks and Trident Park in Blackburn will volunteer staff time to The Ribble Rivers Trust from August. The centres will also invite MINI owners to join them in volunteering activities.

The Ribble Rivers Trust is involved in a number of important conservation activities in the Ribble catchment area. Volunteers will be involved in organised support which may include tree planting, clean ups, fencing, and brash building using wood from fallen trees.

For Bowker MINI in Blackburn, Daniel Gibson said: “All our staff live locally. Many of our staff enjoy the Ribble Valley countryside for recreation and leisure pursuits. Bowker MINI already supports a range of local charities and organisations. But we wanted to build on our volunteering and charity partnerships; especially when it comes to helping the local area.”

For Bowker MINI in Preston, Peter Turner added: “With the Ribble Rivers Trust, there are many different activities and options to interest staff. We are promoting the conservation work in our Centre and to our MINI owners; encouraging them to get involved too!”

The Bowker MINI volunteering pledge also forms part of a national initiative launched by MINI UK called Big Love. MINI retailers nationally have submitted a unique Big Love pledge. Each pledge is an ongoing commitment to each retailer’s local community. This simple promise encourages centres to build partnerships with local organisations, like The Ribble Rivers Trust, to deliver help and support.

The Ribble Rivers Trust is a local charity working to improve, protect and promote the River Ribble for both people and wildlife.  Based in Clitheroe, the Trust works with the public and private organisations to deliver river improvements. Projects can take place across the entire Ribble catchment for the benefit of local people and the environment.

Jack Spees, chief executive for The Ribble Rivers Ribble Trust, said: “Our team of Ribble Rivers Trust volunteers are incredibly important to us. They are the vital work force we need to help deliver our projects, and the eyes and ears of this vast area! It’s great news that Bowker MINI staff will be joining us. 

“With over 3,114 miles of rivers and streams in the catchment there is always a lot to do. Bowker MINI staff will enjoy the great outdoors and meet like-minded people, as well as gaining experience and learning new skills.

“All Bowker MINI’s help is appreciated. Their volunteers will be able to do as much or as little as they can manage. We can’t be everywhere at once. But, with a dedicated team of volunteers on the ground, we can get pretty close!”

Organisations interested in volunteering for the Ribble Rivers Trust can find out more here by visiting ribbletrust.org.uk/volunteer/