Bristol was singled out for praise by Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg at the party conference in Bournemouth yesterday.

He said Britain's core cities, now mostly run by Lib-Dems alone or in coalition, were developing a proud record, demonstrating what the party would be like in power nationally.

Mr Clegg told delegates at the launch of a new document, Action For Our Cities: "The Liberal Democrats run more of England's big cities than the Labour and Conservative parties combined. That is quite an achievement.

"When Lib Dems run our big cities, like Bristol, we make a real difference: protecting local jobs, greening our cities and delivering high-quality local services while getting value for taxpayers' money. We have a proud record."

Bristol City Council leader Barbara Janke said: "I'm delighted Nick and the Party leadership have recognised our achievement.

"We face immense challenges in Bristol. Decades of Labour rule have taken their toll on the city.

"Like most other councils now, we are having to plan major cuts across the board – £30 million over three years – to help pay for the Labour government's attempt to spend its way out of recession."