The Conservatives have launched a new interactive bid to engage the public in the local elections.

Claiming a UK first, leader David Cameron invited members of the public to send in mobile phone or webcam videos explaining how they would improve their local environment.

A selection of the clips will be used in the party's election broadcasts.

"This is the first time this has been done in Britain," said Cameron.

"We want to encourage people from all walks of life to participate in politics and put the public at the centre of our politics."

Video clips can be submitted to the party via the Conservatives.com website.

While the "most interesting" submissions will be included in a local election party political broadcast, a range of clips will also be shown on Conservatives.com.