THE next Family Chess morning event will be held at the Discovery Centre/Library on Saturday from 10.30 am. Anyone who fancies a game or some instruction is very welcome to attend.

James Chilton won the Basingstoke Individual Chess Championship with a win in the final over David Graham. Playing off the black pieces Chilton edged home with his favoured Sicillian Defence in a close game and became the second winner of the Joe French Cup.

Ken Wyld and Adam Matthews have finished as joint winners of the Charles Henshaw Shield. A very close competition saw four players separated by just a half point.

In the Berkshire League Basingstoke have all but escaped relegation following a good 3-3 draw with second placed Maidenhead.

The highlights for Basingstoke were a good draw on top board by Paul Hackman against a very highly graded player and a win from Bernard Cooke on holiday from University. Ivan Stipcevic also secured a draw.

In the Southampton League Division 3 Basingstoke A finished their season with a 3 ½ - 1 ½ win over Chandlers Ford A.

The Basingstoke points came from wins by Paul Vanlint, Liam Blanc and 10-year-old Daniel Yu on his debut, while Paul Boyd secured a draw. In the Borders League Division 3 Basingstoke won 3-2 at Sandhurst B.

The Basingstoke points came from wins by Chilton and Barry Kocan plus draws from Graham and Colin Knight.

This confirms Basingstoke with a top two finish with still a very outside chance of winning the league.

The Chess Club meets every Wednesday from 7pm and details can be found on the website basingstokechessclub.co.uk New members are always welcome from beginner to seasoned player.