A Keighley escalator company enjoyed a visit by a top Tory MP yesterday as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations.

John Redwood, shadow Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, inspected O & K Escalators for the first time during his two-day visit to West Yorkshire.

Mr Redwood was shown the factory floor where the escalators are manufactured and was given a quick brief on the company's history.

Mr Redwood told us: "It's a very successful company, especially considering the contract it's taken on with London Underground, which is quite something.

"I came here to congratulate O & K and to learn about the difficulties arising for the business, such as the high sterling and high exchange rates."

O & K Escalators has taken on the world's largest contract with London Underground in terms of monetary value - to extend the Jubilee Line. As part of the estimated £52 million project, the company is installing 120 escalators, a number of passenger lifts and two autowalks. The scheme is due to be completed by the end of this year.

At the end of the tour, Mr Redwood went on to the Leeds and Bradford Chamber of Commerce.

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