Shropshire Chess Congress hailed a success

And, with four bands of competiton, chess players of all abilities were able to take part.

This year's congress was tinged with sadness after the death of one of its founders, Jeff Cox, earlier in the week.

Tribute was paid to Mr Cox and his families described as stalwarts of the event.

One of the organisers of the event, Steve Rooney, said the congress began in the 1970s and was as popular as ever.

"This year we have three Grand Masters taking part including two Hungarian players who flew in for the weekend."

Mr Rooney said chess was a game that could be enjoyed by all ages.

"One of our Grand Masters was held to a draw by a 14 year old this weekend," he said.

"We have 10 chess clubs in Shropshire as well as a several U3A groups that play chess. It means anyone who wants to start playing, or maybe return to chess after a few years can join a group.

"An evening concentrating on a game of chess is a great way to switch off after work," he said.

"It is also a great way to keep your brain active as you get older and to enjoy socialising."

Phil Love from Newport took up playing again when son, Daniel Hilditch-Love, 14, took and interest in the game.

This weekend was there first major tournament although they both play for the Newport Chess Club.

"There are four levels of play here so we can be sitting next to a Grand Master," Mr Love said.

"It is our first season and people have been telling us about other events acoss the country. Its great to be able to share an interest with Dan."

Dan said it was very intense with her first game lasting four hours.

"I was quite nervous," he said.

Ian Blencowe from Gloucester said anyone could start playing.

"People say to me, you must be so clever. But as long as you want to play and put in the hours, anyone can enjoy chess."

Travelling from Bury-St-Edmunds as 22-year-old Internation Master, Alan Merry, who said he was pleased with his wins early in the weekend.

Kevin Winter from Bradford, has travelled Europe as a keen amateur playing chess.

"Its a very socialable thing to do and what it brilliant is that you can be playing in the same room as your Chess hero. The Grand Masters as so approachable."