CROWDS gathered in Hythe at the weekend to meet and greet Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable.

The senior politician, 75, made the visit as part of his party’s local election campaign, with the Lib Dems fighting for 28 seats across the New Forest on May 2.

Sir Vince, who has a house in Brockenhurst, said: “It’s a wonderful area, I love the New Forest.

“We expect to make gains but it will be difficult to win back the council in one go.”

The party leader who has a house in nearby Brockenhurst met residents outside Waitrose, he then walked down the High Street to the ferry.

David Harrison, Leader of the New Forest District Liberal Democrats, said: “We are all delighted that Vince supported our campaign.”