The Coventry Chess International, organised by the English Chess Federation, took place and attracted a large turnout which included grandmasters from across the globe, as well as Warwick School's resident chess master, Billy F, who scored a creditable 4.5/9. The week-long event also featured a chess camp for local junior players, run by Mr Lam wearing his Warwickshire Junior Chess Squad Head Coach cap. Among the many children who attended was Leon C of Warwick Junior School, who showed why he earned an invitation by playing some fine chess and making good contributions during the coaching. Gregory K of Warwick Senior School was a terrific coaching assistant to Mr Lam and his knowledge of the rules, owing to his status as one of the youngest qualified chess arbiters in the country, proved extremely handy!

Then on the weekend of 1-2 November, the opening two rounds of the 4NCL, the British National Chess League, took place. Billy F got his first taste of topflight chess as part of the Warwickshire Senior side, making their return to the first division after some years in the wilderness. He scored two good draws, including against the very strong International Master Rajat Makkar, helping the team to achieve a win and draw in their two matches: an excellent start for 'The Bears'.

A big well done to all the Warwick chess players for their efforts over half-term!