SHADOW chancellor Ed Balls took on an 18-year-old apprentice at a game of pool during his fact-finding visit to Keighley.

Mr Balls, who was touring the Dalton Mills business centre, played pool against Denholme teenager Molly Bloodworth, who proved a worthy opponent for the Labour politician.

The pair were watched by Molly’s workmates at Tech and Print as they played in the IT company’s recreation room.

Ed had previously chatted with Molly about how her apprenticeship in digital marketing and social media was benefiting both her and her employers.

Former Parkside School student Molly said she was able to receive a wage while combining study and practical work.

Mr Balls was accompanied by John Grogan, Labour’s prospective Parliamentary candidate for Keighley, on his tour of the historic mills.

He saw how property developer Paul Harris had been revitalising Dalton Mills since buying the former 19th century textile mill in 2013.

The complex was already home to several businesses, and now Mr Harris is attracting strong interest for other, previously-derelict areas of the complex.

Mr Balls and Mr Grogan walked around the empty Genappe Mill, which is due to be renovated later this year, then visited flourishing businesses in renovated sections.

At the Renaissance Motorcycle Workshop, which provides training in motorbike bike maintenance, tutor Roger Henderson told Mr Balls about the importance of training young people in engineering.

Mr Balls said: “The mill is a monument to past success, but also a big vote of confidence in Keighley’s future.

“We have to make sure as a government that we can help make this happen.”