Dancing Dreams, Football Kits And Big Love
How Bowker MINI Preston is Giving Back with Heart, writes Richard Glynn. Photography: Peter Austin and Richard Glynn
When people think of a car dealership, they don’t always think of Easter eggs, dance competitions or kids’ football kits. But at Bowker MINI in Preston, it’s all part of the job.
As the brand rolls out its “Local Hero” campaign across the UK, the Preston centre is busy proving it’s more than just a place to buy your next car – it’s a proud part of the Lancashire community. Together with its sister site in Blackburn, Bowker MINI is championing local people, grassroots sport and environmental action. And it’s doing it all with the kind of quiet, determined generosity that feels perfectly at home in Preston.
From young dancers to tree planting, Bowker MINI is showing what it means to back your local heroes.
Dancing to Spain
Let’s start with a story that’s as joyful as it is impressive. Local dancer Lilliana Willacy, who lives in Preston, has been selected to represent Team England at the 2025 Dance World Cup in Burgos, Spain.
At just 7 years old, Lilliana will be competing in six different group routines, ranging from ballet to lyrical, tap and song and dance. It’s a huge achievement – and a big moment for her family too.
“I still can’t believe I’ve been chosen,” said Lilliana. “Dancing at the Dance World Cup is a dream come true and I’m so excited to perform in Spain with my teammates. I’m really grateful for all the support – and now from Bowker MINI too – I can’t wait to get on that stage!”
Bowker MINI stepped in with sponsorship to help cover the growing costs of travel, uniforms, costumes and rehearsals. These kinds of expenses can often stop talented youngsters from chasing big dreams. But thanks to the backing of local businesses like Bowker MINI, Lilliana is one step closer to the spotlight.
“It’s the kind of story we love to support,” said Richard Clare, MINI Brand Manager. “Lilliana’s dedication and talent are truly inspiring. Representing England on such a global stage is a huge achievement and we’re proud to be part of her journey.”
Kitted Out
It’s not just dance where Bowker MINI is lending a hand. Over in Penwortham, the dealership is proudly supporting the Under 8 Blue team at Penwortham Town Football Club. The sponsorship has provided the team kits for the current season.
“The kids were buzzing when they got the new kits,” said Anthony Brown, team manager. “It’s made them feel like a proper team. We’re really grateful to Bowker MINI for backing us and giving the lads that extra bit of pride when they step out onto the pitch.”
Founded in 1977, Penwortham Town is one of the original members of local junior football leagues and it continues to grow. It’s a community-first club with a big heart – exactly the kind of place Bowker MINI is proud to partner with.
“We’re proud to back a team that brings so much energy to the community,” said Jonathan Rogan, Director at Bowker MINI in Preston. “Seeing them run out in the new kits puts a huge smile on everyone’s face – and it’s a reminder that grassroots sport still matters.”
A Conservation Effort with Heart
Preston MINI’s love for its surroundings is just as strong. Bowker MINI staff recently supported a Corporate Tree Planting Day with the Ribble Rivers Trust, helping to enhance local woodlands and improve river catchments in Lancashire.
The event took place at Salesbury Hall, Dinkley, near Ribchester, where the Bowker MINI team joined conservation experts to plant native tree species. The initiative is part of Bowker MINI’s ongoing partnership with the Ribble Rivers Trust, which focuses on improving biodiversity and supporting local environmental projects.
It was part of MINI’s national Big Love pledge – a promise from each MINI retailer to give back to the communities they’re part of.
“Many of our staff and customers live locally and love spending time outdoors,” said Amy Lancaster-Hall, Group Marketing Manager. “We learned so much from the Ribble Rivers Trust team and are proud to be entering into our third year of volunteering with them.”
More Than a Dealership
From football pitches to dance studios, riversides to food banks – Bowker MINI Preston is showing what it means to be a true local hero. It’s not just about selling cars – it’s about giving back, lifting others up and putting community first.
Because in Preston, the best journeys don’t always start with a test drive. Sometimes, they start with a new pair of football boots … or a dance step that leads to Spain.
Bowker Preston
Channel Way
Preston PR2 2YA
01772 761234
bowkerprestonmini.co.uk
