CHESS players from across Wyre Forest and beyond will gather in Bewdley next month for the town’s annual chess competition.

The 6th Bewdley Chess Tournament will take place on Sunday, July 21 at the town’s Wribbenhall Parish Rooms.

The contest, which is open to adults and juniors, will run from 10.45am to 5pm and is being organised by the Bewdley Chess Club as part of their campaign to make Bewdley a chess-friendly town.

Organiser Keith Thompson said: “Our annual chess tournament continues to be a popular event in the local area’s chess calendar.

“First and foremost it is a friendly competition, open to all abilities. All the money raised will be going to the Guide Dogs charity, the Mayor’s chosen charity, and also to help Wribbenhall Church with their fundraising for a new roof.

“Our bigger ambition is to make Bewdley a chess-friendly town by getting more businesses to make boards available and hosting events which generally promote the game and get more people involved. Our annual chess tournament is a big part of that.”

Ahead of this year’s competition, a promotional event will be held on July 6 outside St Anne’s Church from 10am. Entry forms will also be available.

One participant in this year’s tournament will be nine year-old Cameron Henry. The Bewdley-born schoolboy has hit the headlines over the past few years by becoming the Worcestershire champion in his age group and representing the county at the national finals for the past three years.

Players can register for the tournament through organiser Teresa Friar on 01299 401243, or email teresa.friar@btinternet.com. Entry costs £5 for adults and £3 for juniors.