AGM celebrates the past and maps the future

Celebrations

Following a three-month period in which the club has operated from two venues, Telepost members gathered on 3 July for a well-attended AGM which has decided the future direction of the club. The meeting began with reports on the 2023-24 season. The standout achievements were a classical and rapidplay double by Telepost A, Telepost B’s promotion from Division Two and a successful first-ever season for Telepost Juniors. Presentations were made to recognise these achievements:

Club secretary Dennis Bonner presents trophies to Telepost A team players Daniel Hilditch-Love, Fred Bench, captain Matthew Clark, Nathanael Paul and Nigel Ferrington. Also part of the successful squad were David Hodge and Phil Zabrocki. The team won the classical league by a margin of seven points and both Fred and Nigel scored over 90%. Thanks to Steffan MacMillan for all the photos.

Fred receives a second award for his contribution to promotion winning Telepost B, along with John Westhead and captain Steve Wilson. Other regular team members included Steve Kempsell and Archie Flavell. The team secured second place by a single point. Telepost B are also still in the Minor Cup.

In individual competitions, Nathanael Paul had a stellar season, winning both the Club Championship and the County Individual. The Club Championship U1700 title was won by John Westhead for the second season in a row and Rudi Bedford scored a superb 3.5/5 to take the U1400 title.

*Tournament controller Paul Billington presents the Club Championship trophy to Nat Paul.*

Trophies were also awarded to the club’s Juniors in recognition of their achievements in a first competitive season:

*Luke Bedford and Steffan MacMillan accept rewards on behalf of Rudi Bedford and Rhys MacMillan. Trophies will be given to other Juniors at the next club night.*

Decision time

Following the presentations, the meeting turned to the main proposal of the evening – whether or not the club should split into two distinct clubs. There was a wide-ranging discussion, particularly of John Westhead’s suggestion of having one club playing from two venues, including consideration of whether other clubs would support such an arrangement, and Nick Graham’s thoughtful questioning of the intended vision for each club. The vote, though, was very clear with a substantial majority supporting the proposal to split.

This means that Telepost Chess Club will continue at the club on Wednesdays and the new club will be at Unison on Tuesdays. Each club will shortly have their own AGMs and members will be informed by the two club secretaries of their options. We look forward to a new era of local derbies played at either end of Abbey Foregate and wish both clubs a successful future.