Frank Hamilton-Taylor, one of Southbourne Chess Club’s loyal and popular members for the past 40 years, sadly passed away a week ago after recent spells in hospital with a chest complaint.

He was one of the club’s devoted members, always keen to help the club’s other players, particularly the less experienced or those with a lower rating, and encouraged donating an under 100 (old grading points) trophy to the club. Frank would also step in at the last minute to fill in as a reserve for many of the Southbourne teams, many of which involved a lot of travelling.

When the Dorset Rapidplay was initially held at the Southbourne chess club back in the 1990s at its old premises, Frank was always on hand to help out.

Prior to joining the Southbourne chess club, Frank played for the Ringwood chess club.

Despite his deteriorating health, he did briefly rejoin the club in July 2021.

Frank will be greatly missed by everyone.