A TV quiz guru dropped in to check out the score at the St Albans Chess Club recently.
BBC Eggheads star CJ de Mooi, who is also president of the English Chess Federation, formally opened the club’s new home at the County Constitutional Club in Ridgmont Road in St Albans before challenging all the junior members – known as the Early Knights – to chess games.
He said: “Clubs like this are essential because children are the future of chess. Who knows, a future grand master could be among us right now.”
Rosemary Phillips, the Early Knights organiser, said: “The Early Knights were really excited to be playing chess against a real TV celebrity and it is something that they will always be able to remember. It was great to see them all focusing so hard, trying to win their own games – and helping their neighbours along too. The room was buzzing!”
St Albans Chess Club always welcomes new members, both adult and junior, from grand masters to complete beginners. To find out more visit the club’s website www.stalbanschessclub.org.uk or drop into the club on a Monday evening from 6.15pm for juniors and 7.30pm for adults.
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