Nine-year-old chess prodigy Shreyas Royal and his family were going to be deported, his father, Mr Singh’s five-year work visa had expired and he was told it would not be extended unless he earned £120,000 a year, which he does not.

I wrote to the home secretary to urge him to review the case and fortunately Shreyas and his family were allowed to stay due to the world class talent he brings to the country.

This week I met up with him to play him at Chess. Unfortunately I was beaten in 2 hours but was able to hold my own better than the home secretary against the number 2 in the world for his age group.

I am delighted that Shreyas and his family have been allowed to stay as we would’ve lost one of our best and brightest had they been deported.