Sir Richard Branson has been mocked for boasting of his love of chess while playing with the board facing the wrong way.

In his blog, the Virgin boss posted a picture at his Necker Island retreat, stating: "I think chess is the best game in the world.

"I love the fact that I can combine the thrill of risk-taking and strategy planning with a cup of tea and a nice chat with a friend."

Aficionados quickly pointed out that the picture had the board set up incorrectly.

David Kramaley, of chessable.com, said: "This is no minor detail! It is absolutely crucial to get the board the right way. Mr Branson has somehow got the orientation wrong.

"It is meant to be set up with a white square in the bottom right corner as you face the board. If you get that wrong, you're not playing chess."