Chess Club at Great Ayton Working Men's Club

The Chess Club at Great Ayton Working Men's Club is the perfect place for chess enthusiasts in Middlesbrough to gather and enjoy a friendly game. With a membership of around twenty participants, our club offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where players of all skill levels can come together and indulge in their passion for chess.

Every Wednesday, our club meets in the Concert Room of Great Ayton Working Men's Club. It's the ideal setting for intense matches and engaging conversations about the game. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the ropes or a seasoned player seeking challenging opponents, our club has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of our chess club is our participation in the Cleveland League. With a season that runs from October to mid-June, we rigorously compete with three different teams. Our A team competes in the A division, our B team in the B division, and our C team in the C division. It's an exciting opportunity for our members to showcase their skills and forge new friendships with chess enthusiasts from other clubs.

During the summer months, we don't slow down. Instead, we host an array of chess lectures and practice sessions designed to help our members improve their game. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn from experienced players and gain valuable insights into strategy and technique.

League matches typically kick off at 7.15pm, and for those who like to unwind with a refreshing drink, you'll be glad to know that last orders are at 11pm. And to ensure that everyone has enough time to relax and enjoy their evening, there's an additional hour for drinks after last orders. It's the perfect way to cap off an evening of competitive chess.

If you have a keen interest in chess or are simply curious to see what it's all about, we extend an open invitation to join us at the Great Ayton Working Men's Club. Our Chess Club is a vibrant community that thrives on the dedication and enthusiasm of its members.

One noteworthy achievement of our Chess Club happened in 2023 when our A team made history by winning the A division title for the first time. It was a proud moment for our club and a testament to the dedication and hard work of our talented players. In the picture below, you can see the victorious A team squad, featuring Andrew Smith, Richard Hall, Steven Booth, Martin McLoughlin, David Wise, and Virgil Szekely. Each member brings a unique combination of youth, experience, brains, and wisdom to the team, making it a diverse and skilled group.

So, whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, we invite you to join our chess-loving community at Great Ayton Working Men's Club. Come along, embrace the challenge, and have a great time playing the game we all love. We can't wait to welcome you!