Conservative backbench MPs Richard Ottaway and Gavin Barwell have a golden opportunity to change the law of the land.

The representatives for Croydon South and Croydon Central amazingly were the first two from their party to be drawn in the Private Members Bill Ballot - allowing them to present to parliament an amendment or new law on a subject of their choosing.

As second and fourth names out of the hat on Thursday May 17 the pair should both have the chance to have their bills debated fully in the House of Commons.

Mr Ottaway, who has represented South Croydon for more than 20 years, said it was the first time he had been picked in the top ten.

He said: "For both Gavin and I to be picked in the top five is extraordinary. This is a serious opportunity. I have already got about a dozen suggestions and have a few ideas but I won’t be revealing that quite yet."

At the beginning of each parliamentary year, in May, a ballot is held to allow ministers outside of the cabinet to put forward proposals for debate.

Mr Barwell said: "There are three things I am potentially looking at doing.

"The issue of metal thefts and scrap metal is huge and causes a lot of disruption but also distress when cemeteries or churches are targeted. Looking at the industry, or increasing the penalties attached is an option."

Mr Barwell added legislation on the misuse of disabled badges and discrimination against those with mental health were also areas of concern for him.

The pair will put their motions to Parliament on June 20.