Nick Clegg set to warn of right-wing 'Blukip' alliance

Liberal Democrats leader Nick Clegg will issue a fresh warning that David Cameron could be dragged to the right if he attempts to run a minority administration, as he continues on the campaign trail later.

Mr Clegg, who has dubbed the right-wing alliance "Blukip", said a deal involved Ukip, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and Tory backbenchers would put public services at risk and divide communities.

He insists the Lib Dems would offer a "heart" to a Conservative-led government or a "brain" to a Labour-led administration if the election fails to result in either of the two largest parties achieving an outright majority.

In a visit to north-west England, Mr Clegg is expected to say: "Imagine what Britain could become if the Prime Minister had to bargain with Nigel Farage and his friends for votes.

"Our public services cut to the bone. Our communities divided. Our shared British values of decency, tolerance and generosity cast aside...

"So ask yourself this: Do you want Liberal Democrats to keep the Government in the centre or Nigel Farage and his friends forcing David Cameron to lurch to the right?."

The Lib Dems will also unveil a poster showing Mr Farage walking in to Number 10 alongside David Cameron.