IT was a fundraising drive that made a racquet for charity.

MP Mike Thornton took on 14-year-old Wyvern College student Ben Vincent in a game of squash for Children in Need.

The youngster beat the MP 11-7 and helped Fair Oak Squash and Racketball Centre smash its fundraising target and raise £450 to help the charity continue supporting deprived youngsters across the UK.

Ben, who plays for the Fair Oak club’s men’s team, organised the tournament, which was followed by a cake sale and a raffle.

Eastleigh MP Mike Thornton said: “I was so pleased to be asked to be part of this because Ben has done all the work himself.

"He’s done a tremendous job in raising money for a fantastic cause.

“It was great to play at one of my local clubs, but I’m not used to such tough opposition!”