A school boy is preparing for a fierce chess battle in Romania.

Thames Ditton Junior School pupil Max Elliott is one of 24 pupils representing England at the World Schools Individual Chess Championships in Romania from April 28 to May 6.

The 10-year-old started playing chess aged four and currently holds the UK Chess Challenge under-10s ultimo title.

He plays for Ealing junior and Surbiton chess clubs.

He said: “When I was four years old I received a chess set for my birthday. This was just the beginning of my passion for chess. “I never dreamed that six years later I would be travelling to Romania to play for England.

“It’s a great privilege to have this opportunity and it's something that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

“My objectives are to be well prepared, to play to the best of my ability and overall, to enjoy the experience.”