What do you do when you are not playing chess?
I was previously an accountant but have been retired for three years now. This gives me more time to play chess as well as bowls, croquet and golf.
What do you most like about chess?
I have been playing chess for well over 50 years. It keeps my mind sharp and has helped me form many friendships.
Why did you join the club?
I am a member of Sevenoaks Chess Club, but Petts Wood & Orpington gives me the opportunity to play competitive games.
What’s the best thing about being a member?
The wide variety of events – matches against other clubs, online matches, tournaments and simuls.
Tell us something about your experience and involvement at the club
It is a very busy and friendly club with a great record of developing its junior members into top players. I have previously been captain of the En Passant team.
Who is your chess hero?
The ‘Magician from Riga’, Mikhail Tal. A flawed but genius chess talent. Best known for his risky and sacrificial play and a former world champion.
What chess book have you found most helpful?
Chess For Tigers by Simon Webb. Rather than concentrating on always making the best possible moves, this book is more about how a club player can improve, by all available means. Chapters such as ‘Play the man, not the board’ and ‘How to catch heffalumps’ indicate its light-hearted approach. A tiger only cares about winning!!