Torquay’s Riviera International Conference has been chosen to host the 2009 English Chess Federation’s annual championship.

The event was last held at RICC in 2002 and director of the English Chess Federation, David Welch, said he was very pleased to be bringing the event back to one of his favourite locations.

He said: “It’s a smashing venue for us which is very important as the players are there for hours every day. There’s plenty of space for us to take over with a quiet playing hall plus rooms where players can go over their games.
“It’s a nice relaxing venue with very good playing conditions.”

The competition will run over a two-week period from July 25 to August 8 with players of all ages taking part – on one day there will be an under eights competition with players as young as six taking their turn on the chess board.

It will consist of the British Championships and also non-championship games for all ability levels.
David added: “Chess is flourishing quite well in the Westcountry and it’s a venue we like to come back to. There’s plenty of entertainment nearby and players always like a seaside venue.”

Barry Cole, managing director of RICC, said he was delighted to welcome the chess federation back again.

He said: “It’s a real boost for the local economy as there will be around 1,000 people visiting for the competition. It’s an event which we enjoy hosting as there’s always a great atmosphere, ranging from the quiet concentration in the main hall with the players to the buzz of other areas with the players going over their games and discussing tactics.

“We’re looking forward to it.”