A Bradford-based car dealership is selling around 1,000 used cars every month after a 23 per cent rise in demand for second-hand vehicles.

JCT600, one of the UK’s largest independent motor groups with 44 dealerships selling makes from MINIs to Maseratis, has seen trade bounce back this year in the used car market following a sharp drop towards the end of 2008.

Sales director Andrew Coulthurst said: “The last six months of 2008 saw a sharp dip in car sales, but 2009 has been a much better year for the car industry with new car registrations rising for the fifth consecutive month in November.

“Helped by the scrappage scheme and the lowering of VAT, we have sold more than 20,000 new and used cars to retail customers over the last 12 months. The last three months have been particularly buoyant with potential car buyers rushing to purchase before the planned return to 17.5 per cent VAT in January which will mean customers will face an average increase of £375 on each new car.

“December is traditionally one of our busiest times and we’re expecting another record month as value-conscious purchasers forsake a 2010 registration in favour of the 2.5 per cent VAT saving.

“We have been preparing for this demand for some time and also bolstering our used car buying capability.

“We now have over 1,500 used cars in stock, more than ever before, meaning we can offer customers the widest choice and best value.”

The firm is aiming to sell more than 400 new and used cars between Christmas Eve and the New Year, with sales boosted by promotional activity.

JCT600 will offer customers buying a used car £250 additional part exchange and a £250 off the screen price at selected dealerships.

The family-owned group is headed by Jack Tordoff and operates dealerships, across Yorkshire and the North East, selling 21 brands of new cars.

Earlier this year JCT600 was named among the top six businesses in the North East.

It opened a £4 million newly-built Volkswagen showroom on Sticker Lane, Bradford, at the end of last year and expanded further this year with acquisition of two Audi dealerships.