Northwich Junior Chess Club marks end-of-season with prize-giving

Volunteers and members of the town’s Junior Chess Club held their end-of-season prize-giving ceremony at the Victoria Road Primary School on Saturday, July 9.

This year has seen the club accepted onto the English Chess Federation Junior Development Pathway, and receive a grant from Northwich Town Council.

Next season, members are look forward to competing again in the Northwich Schools Competition in November, and perhaps one or two other competitions at a regional level.

The junior club was set up three years ago by Richard Betts, a member of Northwich Chess Club who ranked 12th nationally at the high point of his playing career.

Ashley Norton (left) was named 'player of the season', picture with coach, Richard Betts (Image: Richard Betts)

Richard said: “The kids have developed their chess considerably in the three years we have been running.”

“We now have a group of promising players who can learn from and challenge each other.

“Now they know the basics, we are starting to teach members advanced chess skills, especially strategy, and tactics.

“Chess is a great game, requiring patience, determination, and thinking skills.

“It won’t be long before they are giving us coaches a run for their money."

Northwich Junior Chess Club caters for children from the age of five to 15 and runs sessions on Saturday mornings at Victoria Road Primary School, 9am to 11.30am.

The new season starts again on Saturday, September 7, when they hope to welcome lots of new members. More details can be found at their website www.northwichchessclub.com.

Richard added: “You don’t need to be able to play as we will teach you. If you can already play, then we will help you to improve.

“Our engaging sessions strike a balance between instruction and friendly gameplay, letting participants to learn new strategies while enjoying matches with fellow club members.”