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We found ourselves in quite different surroundings today, as our usual room was not available for us. As a result, we settled in among the steady stream of daily library visitors, who appeared to be genuinely intrigued by everything we were doing and showed a keen interest in our activities. A remarkable group of 17 enthusiastic juniors joined us as we kicked off the latest Ladder competition. Both Jon and myself personally provided one-to-one tuition Read more

It was great to see a total of 16 enthusiastic youngsters fully engaged and thoroughly enjoying a Saturday session of Chess, marking the very first event of the year for our club. The energy and excitement they brought to the room made it a memorable and inspiring day for everyone involved. A very warm welcome to all our returning members, whose continued support means so much to us. We are also excited to extend a Read more

Simple rules to improve your chess Rule A Activate and advance your central pawns, by pushing these pawns forward you control the all important centre and help to free your Bishops. Don’t be tempted to push ‘flank’ pawns (those on files a,b, g and h) allowing your opponent to control the centre of the board. Rule B Bishops and Knights need to be deployed as quickly as possible, avoid moving the same piece twice until you are Read more

Due to a double booking at the Social club, this event has been cancelled for now, hopefully a new date will be advised in a month or so. POOLE CHESS CLUB BEGINNERS TOURNAMENT – 12TH JANUARY 2026 On Monday 12th January Poole Chess Club is running a Beginners tournament which will start at 7pm. Anyone without a September grade is eligible to play, as is anyone graded under 1400 in the September grades. Money is being Read more

I sincerely hope that each and every one of you had a truly enjoyable and memorable Christmas. As we move forward, I am excited and optimistic about the opportunities and good times that this New Year will bring to all of us. Now is the traditional time of year when people make their New Year’s resolutions, setting goals and intentions for the months ahead. With that thought in mind, let me suggest just one meaningful Read more

Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year to each and every one of you! I truly hope that you are all feeling joyful and satisfied with the wonderful gifts that Father Christmas brought to you this year! When you are bored with you’re presents, take a look at this puzzle:- White to play and mate in 2

POOLE CHESS CLUB BEGINNERS TOURNAMENT – 12TH JANUARY 2026 On Monday 12th January Poole Chess Club is running a Beginners tournament which will start at 7pm. Anyone without a September grade is eligible to play, as is anyone graded under 1400 in the September grades. Money is being raised for the mental health charity Dorset Mind to highlight both the benefits of chess for mental health but also the importance of mental health awareness within our Read more

Only 7 juniors showed up today, but we still had a fantastic time with an exciting Knockout Final match, an engaging game of Chess Roulette, presents for every participant, and loads of fun throughout the event. Thanks to Jon Catchpole for coming along and viewing the fun. The Knockout Final Constance played an outstanding and impressive game, delivering a blinder and ultimately securing a well-deserved victory against Isaac. To be fair and give credit where Read more

A very exciting and lively Saturday morning unfolded once again, with 14 enthusiastic juniors eagerly taking part in a variety of fun and engaging games. In addition to the enjoyable activities, a crucial decider match in the Ladder competition added an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to the event. At the end of the session, as some members will be away holidaying next week, certificates recognizing participation and achievement, along with unique and specially Read more

Fantastic turnout today with an impressive 18 juniors all eager and excited to participate in a lively chess session on this crisp and chilly first Saturday of Winter. The enthusiasm and energy in the room were truly remarkable as the young players gathered to sharpen their skills and enjoy the strategic game of chess together. A warm and heartfelt welcome is extended to a young yet remarkably engaging lad named Sammy, who showed several encouraging Read more