LIBERAL Democrat leader Vince Cable is visiting Hythe today to meet villagers and discuss local issues.

Sir Vince, who has a house in nearby Brockenhurst, will tour the village centre ahead of the local elections on May 2.

The Lib Dems are contesting 28 seats across the New Forest, mainly in head-to-head contests with the ruling Conservatives.

After greeting candidates outside Waitrose Sir Vince will walk down the High Street to the ferry, which has lost its £50,000-a-year subsidy from Hampshire County Council.

He will also inspect the old police station site, which is at the centre of a proposal for retirement flats.