AN MP has handed over £500 to charity after taking part in a speed chess competition.

Braintree’s James Cleverly raised the cash for Parc Essex in Great Notley, which offers children outdoor facilities to play and have fun in.

The Tory chairman was one of 12 MPs who attempted to beat former champion chess player Jamie Njoku-Goodwin during the recent Conservative Party conference, which took place in Manchester.

Mr Njoku-Goodwin, who is a special adviser to Health Secretary Matt Hancock, won all 12 games and helped raised a combined £7,000 for charities with the help of the MPs.

Mr Cleverly was beaten in just under three minutes.

He presented the cash to Parc Essex during a special visit on Friday.

Writing on Facebook, he said: “Despite losing the game I did win £500 for local charity, Parc Essex.

“It was a pleasure to visit them on Friday and present the cheque in person.”