LIB Dem deputy leader Sir Menzies Campbell visited Malvern Hills Science Park yesterday (Thursday).

Until late Wednesday, local Lib Dems had hoped party leader Charles Kennedy would visit, making his first public appearance since the birth of his son Donald on Tuesday.

But because of Mr Kennedy's new responsibility, and the launch of the party manifesto in London, Sir Menzies arrived in his place.

He said West Worcestershire Lib Dem candidate Tom Wells was running a strong campaign, but declined to say if the seat was on the Lib Dem's top hit-list.

"We hope to get the maximum number of seats in this election," said Sir Menzies.

Camera crews, reporters and photographers from the BBC, ITN, GMTV and the Press Association accompanied Sir Menzies as he was greeted by cheering Lib Dem supporters.

He met science park manager Nigel Shaw and visited PsiMedica's lab, asking questions about the company's work.

Mr Wells campaigned this week across the constituency and will attend a public meeting at Christ Church, Malvern, at 2.30pm on Sunday (April 17), where voters can question candidates. All West Worcestershire Parliamentary candidates are due to attend, with the exception of Sir Michael Spicer.