The couple visited a farm in Mr Clegg's Sheffield constituency

Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg's wife has joined him on the campaign trail for the first time since the 6 May election was announced.

Miriam Gonzalez Durantez was with her husband at a farm in his Sheffield Hallam constituency on Saturday.

Ms Gonzalez Durantez said: "It feels good to support Nick." The couple were helping to build a dry stone wall.

During the visit, Mr Clegg described Conservative marriage tax proposals as "patronising drivel".

'Unfair and out-of-date'

The Conservatives have said they are planning to give four million married couples and civil partners an annual £150 tax break.

It would apply to basic rate taxpayers earning under £44,000 where one partner does not use their full personal tax-free income allowance.

Asked about the tax proposals, Mr Clegg said: "I think it is patronising drivel for David Cameron to tell people how to lead their lives.

"People should be free to lead their own lives as they wish. I don't think it is for David Cameron to pick and choose who gets three quid a week".

Labour said other families would lose out as a result.

Work and Pensions Secretary Yvette Cooper said: "These plans are unfair, irresponsible, out of date, and they won't work."

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