Ed Balls: '˜I hope to dance in Blackpool'

The former MP noted that even news reports now refer to him as being a Strictly dancer.

He told Radio Times: “Since I’ve been on Strictly, even popping to the shops near our house in London I’m having to get used to younger children pointing me out to their mums and saying, ‘There’s that dancing man’.

“Me? A dancer! But I guess for young viewers who don’t remember debates on whether Britain should join the Euro or how fast we should cut the deficit, a dancer is – sort of – what I am!”

Mr Balls, who lost his seat in the 2015 general election, has become a favourite with Strictly viewers despite not having the most impressive moves on the dance floor.

The dancing hopeful, paired with professional partner Katya Jones, added: “I’ve worked hard, put in the hours in training. But as for following the steps, I know I leave a lot to be desired and I’m only still in the competition because of everyone at home voting. I’d like to think that’s because we’ve been trying our hardest.

“I know it won’t last, but I still hope to dance a jive and an American Smooth, get to Blackpool... and lose a few more pounds!”