Sales of new cars are down by 24%

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A total of 133,475 vehicles were registered in April 2009, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said.

The April fall was less than the drop in previous months but still took the decline in sales for the year so far (January-April) to 28.5%.

It was the worst April performance since 1991, with all sectors of vehicles experiencing declines apart from the mini segment which rose 54.3%.

The SMMT is now pinning its hopes on the Government's "cash for bangers" car-scrappage scheme which will start on May 18.

Announced in the Budget, the scheme involves owners of 10-year-old cars getting £2,000 - half from the Government, half from the car industry - when they trade in their old vehicle and buy a brand-new model.

SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: "Today records the 11th successive fall in new car registrations yet the UK motor industry continues to demonstrate its strength and resilience throughout.

"Despite the tough conditions, industry is hopeful that its prospects will improve in the coming months and the steps it has taken will provide the basis for a sustained recovery once growth returns.

"The UK motor industry remains of strategic importance and will play a key part in generating jobs and prosperity into the future."