27 June: All participating clubs were well represented at the Dorset County Chess Association AGM, which took place at RBL, North Road, Poole Weds 26 June.

There were reports on 3 successful congresses and the 3 league divisions were well contested, with 2 newcomers, Ringwood and Highcliffe becoming champions for the first time in Divisions 1 & 2 respectively. Treasurer Steve Peirson reported a surplus of £143.16 at the end of the season. It was decided to extend the use of Time Increments (1hr + 30 seconds) to Division 2 next season, providing there are sufficient digital clocks on the night in each match. County Grader Phil Wallace explained changes in the ECF grading system which will likely lead to grades being updated monthly from 1 Jan ’21 and becoming ELO 4 digits. Martin Simons outlined plans for a special 25th anniversary “Grand” Rapidplay at Ringwood, Sunday 15 March ’20 with much enhanced prize money. Chair Ian Clark explained a recent review of Dorset Junior chess arrangements. Eric Sachs described all the junior activities which had successfully taken place during the season. The current officers were re-elected, but a new Junior Chess Officer will need to be appointed in due course to replace Eric who recently resigned, and Mike Jay has to be  replaced as League Controller and Webmaster at the end of the next season. Clubs in the west of the county are encouraged to consider a modest Bacchus League for new and emerging players, even if just a few graded matches.

Ian Clark, Organiser of the 2nd Dorset Closed, Sunday 7 July ’19, Merley, said there are still places and he is keen to get at least 30 entrants. At time of meeting there were 25.

Main picture: Ringwood Captain Martin Clancy (on  the left) with Chair Ian Clark. Ringwood won the County Championship for the first time and it is their 2nd season in the County League.

Pictured Richard Ursell (on the left) – in their debut season, Highcliffe won Dorset League Division 2. And they achieved a double by also winning the Bournemouth & District League KO Handicap Cup. Highcliffe next season plan a team in each of the 3 Dorset League divisions.

and below Colin Wilson received the Dorset League Division 3 shield for Wimborne B. The Wimborne team won the league in the last minute of the season, despite losing 1.5-2.5 to defending champions Poole B who, themselves, came so close to becoming champions again with a strong finish to the season