A new season got underway last Monday when the Forest of Dean Chess Club’s AGM took place in Mitcheldean. Chairman and match captain Clint Mann reported on a season of progress. Competing in Division 3 of the North Gloucestershire League, the club’s team finished in 5th place out of 6 teams. A narrow loss in the Peter Harrison Cup was followed by two teams entering the Summer League, although both the OAKS and ACORNS failed to progress to the finals stages. Over 18 club members were involved and pleasing were the fine performances by Simon Gathern, David Vaughan, Tony Norris, Lee Davis, Ray Francis and Paul Morgan who all achieved results above 50%.

Secretary Derek Lomax reported on a growing membership with over 30 people having attended during the year, more diverse in terms of gender, age and ability. Treasurer Tony Norris was able to declare a healthy bank balance and retiring Internal Tournaments Organiser Simon Gathern announced Paul Morgan as the winner of the Portman Cup, with the Winter and Summer Blitz trophies awarded to Ray Francis and Lee Davis. Brendon Harris was elected as the new ITO with all other officers continuing in their positions.

The Forest of Dean Chess Club aims to enter two teams this season into the North Gloucestershire League in Divisions 2 and 4. This will enable the growing cohort of stronger players to compete at a higher level and allow less experienced novice players to be up against those of a similar standard. An exciting new season lies ahead!

The Forest of Dean Chess Club meets every Monday evening at The White Horse, Mitcheldean with meetings commencing at 7.00pm. Membership fees are just £10 for the whole year for adults and free to juniors aged under 18 who register as members of the ECF. For further details contact club Chairman Clint Mann by e-mail at [email protected]