40 years ago
David Hardy • 23 February 2021
From Phil Platts "This year will mark the 40th anniversary of the meeting between Oldham and Stott Benham in the final of the Rochdale League Knockout final. Oldham were the division one champions, my team, Stott Benham, were the division two champions. Vastly out graded on all boards, Stott Benham went down to a gallant defeat 3.5 – 0.5. Our only half point point was gained by Paul Harrington playing against a certain Dave Hardy" Paul now works for Chess & Bridge in London

Week 2 without Dave... Paul, Joel and Sacha held the fort this week. Joel organised a demo for everyone and there will be another team puzzle competition next week. Steve was away so the Tuck Shop had to run itself. Steve sent a message from his holiday stating he had been playing Belgium opposition and won both games. No mention of expanding his Tuck Shop Empire overseas...

Dave is off on his holidays for a few weeks and this week Steve, Joel and Pete were left in charge. Steve was in charge of the Tuck Shop - his natural environment Joel looked after Davids group Pete looked after his beginners group. All went well...Steve got served at his own Tuck Shop by Pete, Joel brought the wrong charger for his laptop and Pete got diverted by road works and had a tour of Ashton. Highlight of the evening was Pete playing a game in the hall and being pleased to end in a Rook&Pawn vs Rook endgame. Joel and Tim kindly came over and said Pete should win - but didn't tell him how ! Perhaps a lesson for next week by Joel... Steve is away next week teaching some Italians how to play their own opening and Pete has a busy social schedule so both can't make it....leaving Joel, Paul and Sacha in charge. Steve has left instructions on his Tuck Shop layout and how to ensure the cupboard is put away correctly - "as long as it all fits in it will be fine"