Oxford shopping centre hosts display of Mini cars

Chris King, Kenny O’Hare, Mick Hollis and Derek Young, who all worked at the Cowley Mini plant (Image: Templars Square)

Oxford’s Templars Square shopping centre is hosting a display of nine Mini cars to honour the city’s involvement in the company’s history.

Included in the exhibition is a 1960 Mini Austin Countryman, reputedly the oldest of its kind.

Other models like a 1971 Cooper S, a Mini van, a Mini convertible, and a 2001 MINI Cooper, one of the inaugural modern Minis, will also be showcased.

The display, now open and running until Saturday, February 17, is organised by Tanya Field, a local resident and car enthusiast.

She said: “I’m delighted to be back in Templars Square Shopping Centre with a small but wide-ranging display of Minis.

“Minis are iconic and have a special place in the hearts of many people, especially the communities which surround the Mini factory.”

Oxford Mail: Chris King, Kenny O’Hare, Mick Hollis and Derek Young who worked at worked at the Cowley Works

Centre manager, Paul Jackson, added: “Since opening our doors in 1965 we have welcomed thousands of Cowley plant workers.

“The automotive industry is an important part of our heritage and we are delighted to bring the Minis to the forefront of the community.”

Markus Grüneisl, director of plants Oxford and Swindon, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate not just the cars, but also the team here in Oxford and their role in the local community.”

Visitors are invited from 8am to 6pm from Monday to Saturday.

The exhibition is free to attend and the public are welcome to take photos.