Liberal Democrats launch local election campaign

Nick Clegg has launched the Liberal Democrats' local election campaign, highlighting the party's record of offering genuine improvements for people across the country.

Speaking at Sheffield Hallam Students' Union, Nick Clegg spoke of the party's "promise to give people and communities the tools to fix things for themselves. And to tear down the vested interests that stand in their way."

He added:

"Our campaign will focus on the positive benefits that Liberal Democrat government has brought to local communities throughout England and Wales. You're going to hear from us about the way in which we have applied liberal solutions to the everyday problems facing people in their local communities.

"Practical solutions on housing that have made our communities like Cambridge, Chesterfield, and South Shropshire fairer places to live. Practical solutions on crime that have made cities like Hull, Liverpool and Newcastle safer places to live. And practical solutions on the environment that have made areas like Birmingham, Northampton and Richmond greener places to live.

"The Liberal Democrat record in local government is a success story - quality services, and value for money. And we are ready to apply the lessons that we have learned to councils throughout this country.

"These elections a real chance for people to chose real change in their communities. So on May 1st if it is real change that you want. Don't follow Labour's trail of broken promises to the polling station. Don't be beguiled by David Cameron's brand of political fakery. Take a look at the Liberal Democrats and make your vote count for real change for your community."