Prime Minister David Cameron has announced that more than 2,000 Help to Buy mortgages have been approved in the UK to date.

This landmark figure has been achieved in just the first month since the introduction of the scheme.

The plan is being promoted ahead of the 2015 election – and it is hoped that it will help a greater number of people move either up the property ladder, or even onto it for the first time.

Most applicants to the scheme are young, with a household income roughly in line with the national average.

Mr Cameron said that home ownership is about more than having somewhere to sleep, arguing that it can make people feel independent and self-reliant.

“Above all, it’s about aspiration,” the prime minister continued, adding: “Help to Buy is helping people realise the dream of home ownership – and it’s a key part of my plan for Britain.”