SWINDON’S Hindu Temple played host for the first time to the Wiltshire Junior Open Chess Tournament.

There were 70 entrants from all over Wiltshire and the south west to play a six round Raid Play Swiss tournament.

The event was organised by Steve Jones from Wiltshire Junior Chess with the assistance of the Hindu Temple trustees.

Steve said: “It was a brilliant day, thank you to everyone who participated in and supported the event.

“It is wonderful to see a community that is thriving and a centre that is not only a temple for the Hindu community, but also a place of culture where everyone is welcome.

“We encourage everyone to experience testing themselves with the game, everyone is welcome and we would love to see some new faces amongst the regulars.”

Participants between the ages of eight and 18 were eligible to play in the competition - the Cheney Manor based temple has its own chess club players who took part to gain valuable experience in competing with the region’s best players.

Further coaching was provided by Peter Richmond, a chess master who gave one to one training throughout the day.

Parents were also well catered for, with hot drinks and snacks, snacks and samosas on an awful rainy day - warmth was provided indoors.

Anybody who wants to get involved with playing chess can visit the venue on Monday evenings between 7pm and 9pm, catering for children of all ages and experience.