A HAMPSHIRE pensioner proved class is permanent after winning on his return to table tennis - 50 years after playing his last game.

David Taylor, 79, came in as a last minute reserve for his team the Hanson Panthers to help them take on the Hanson Falcons in a Division 2 match at John Hanson School in Andover.

David, whose son James is also on the team, recorded a hard fought 11-5, 9-11, 7-11, 11-9, 11-6 win over Val Fox.

And his victory helped the Panthers to a comfortable 24-10 win.