Councils including Bristol should hold X Factor-style public votes to name streets and parks, it has been suggested.

The New Local Government Network think tank says recognising achievements of local people in place names will help build community spirit.

Its report suggests honouring football hero David Beckham and the Gallagher brothers of Oasis.

In Bristol the likes of Field Marshal Sir William Slim or cricketer Marcus Trescothick might be more appropriate.

Report author James Hulme urged councils to build on the example of Mansfield which named a swimming pool after double Olympic gold winner Rebecca Adlington.

Mr Hulme said: "Celebrating the achievements of local people would give areas an identity and focus, especially as there is concern over so called 'clone towns' of identikit high streets.

"It would also be a strong sign that local areas are proud of their heritage and be an opportunity to enlighten newcomers and tourists to their area of the many things achieved there."

Local Government Minister John Healey welcomed the idea, but suggested communities may choose to honour "unsung heroes" who are unknown to the wider public.

"I think it's great for local democracy and local pride if people can name their public spaces after the people who are important to them," said Mr Healey.

"They may choose national icons. But they may also choose their community's unsung heroes."

Back in 2005, Bristol Post readers voted to choose the names of three streets in the recently- opened Cabot Circus – Concorde Street, George White Street, and Brigstowe Street.

A spokesperson for Bristol City Council said: "It is the developer's privilege to propose a new street name. The developer is invited to propose a name that should be distinct and have local or historical connections.

"The council welcomes proposals to name streets after people connected with the site or locality. However the proposal will only be considered if the person to be commemorated is deceased."

John Frenkel, from Bristol Civic Society's planning policy group, said: "As for naming new streets, the Government should think about ensuring that deprived areas are regenerated before releasing land for new developments which need new street names."