Mini Christmas tree lights up Thames

28 December 2001: The new MINI has been marketed in London over the festive season with the launch of a gigantic Christmas tree 'sculpture' on the River Thames. The massive construction towered over many of the buildings flanking the river, and provided London with a new landmark over the Christmas season.

The sculpture consisted of 12 life-size MINIs welded on to a steel ‘tree’ shaped structure. The 50ft tall, 20ft wide tree, will sail up and down the Thames until 2 January, on a barge specially customised for the purpose. The cars’ headlights will be fully illuminated creating a strikingly decorated ‘MINI’ Christmas tree.

On Wednesday 19 December Tower Bridge opened to allow the tree through on its maiden voyage. TW

December 2001