Chess star Iain Wilson loses his fight with cancer
A leading figure in Shropshire chess and drama circles, Iain Wilson, has died at the Severn Hospice in Telford.
Mr Wilson served in top posts in Shropshire Chess Association, and had also been chairman of Wellington Theatre Club, taking part in various productions as well as being its spokesman and organiser of Wellington Drama Festival.
Mr Wilson, from Telford, had been battling cancer for some time and was admitted to the hospice last week.
He was a member of Telford Chess Club, and then its successor Shifnal & Telford, for nearly 30 years and played a major part in its continued existence, serving at various times as a team captain, club chairman, and treasurer.
Club colleague and friend Richard Thompson said: "He was an invaluable supporter of the Shropshire Chess Association, serving at various times and for many years as county first team captain, league controller, general secretary and president, usually at times when no-one else would come forward to fulfil these roles.
"The association owes him an enormous debt of gratitude for keeping these roles going efficiently and without fuss, through difficult times. He was a pretty strong player. I will miss his devilish chuckle when finding the winning move in friendly games.
"He was a good friend to me and to most people in the club and association. He will be sadly missed."
Funeral arrangements will be announced later.
