More than 5,000 Mini Classics are being recalled amid safety fears over rear wheel bearings.

It is thought some cars could be affected by premature wear of wheel bearings due to water entering the system.

Although such a condition would normally be detected during routine servicing, the recall has been ordered to minimise customer concern.

If left unchecked, the problem could lead to failure of the bearing assembly, although related noise and vibration would make this easily detectable by the driver, the company said.

The recall affects 5809 Mini Classics produced between August 1996 and January 1999 and registered in the UK.

Owners of models in the affected VIN range are being informed by letter from Wednesday and are asked to contact their local MG Rover dealer, who will arrange for the rear wheel bearings to be replaced free of charge.

The recall has been organised in accordance with the "Code of Practice" concerning vehicle safety issues drawn up by the Vehicle Inspectorate and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

MG Rover ended production of the Mini last year, with German car-maker BMW taking over name and now producing a new version of the car.

The recall is not related to the new Mini.

Two brand new versions of the car are being built at the BMW factory at Cowley in Oxfordshire - a standard Mini and a more sporty Mini Cooper model.

BMW is hoping to produce 30,000 Minis this year and 100,000 in 2002.

Following its UK launch, the car will go on sale in Europe in September and in America and Japan next year.