CONSERVATIVE Party leader David Cameron was confronted by a gang of ‘hoodies’ appealing to him for hugs during his second visit to Crewe on Monday in the by-election campaign.

The group of seven youngsters wearing hooded tops and holding placards were outside Crewe Police Station, where he had been due to hold a Press conference. But over fears for his safety, he was whisked away by advisers through a back entrance.

Mr Cameron, who was supporting candidate Edward Timpson, has repeatedly defended himself against claims that his speech last year on anti-social behaviour and unruly youngsters encouraged people to “hug a hoodie”, but joked after Monday’s incident that “some of my best friends wear hooded tops”.

Speaking later with the police from the Conservative headquarters in Gresty Road, Mr Cameron said: “Crime is a big issue here. I’m the one who has been out on the streets in Crewe chatting to people, making a speech in the High Street. We’ve not seen Gordon Brown do that.”

He also added to the debate about whether the main candidates, Mr Timpson and Labour hopeful Tamsin Dunwoody, were local enough for the job. Mr Timpson has been derided by some Labour supporters as the “Tory toff” from Tarporley, while Conservatives have questioned whether Mrs Dunwoody, who lives in Wales, has strong enough local links.

He said: “Edward is a local candidate, was born here and was not just dropped in.”

But 21-year-old “Harry the Hoodie”, one of the group welcoming Mr Cameron, said he and his friends felt rejected.

“As he said, we need hugs because we’re not loved very much. Will I vote for them? Well, that depends on whether or not we get the cuddles he promised.”