Budding grandmasters battled it out for places in the Surrey junior chess team and the chance to play in the national championships.

The Ramsay Cups tournament took place on Sunday, February 21, at Aldro School in Godalming, drawing youngsters from across the county and a large group from Elmbridge.

It was the last chance for the young hopefuls to show what they were made of, as they played five matches under the watchful eye of the selection committee.

Players from Tough Chess, the weekly club based in Hinchley Wood, had excellent results with Ananth Vijayakumar taking the U9 trophy.

Teams will be selected based on this performances and in other recent outings.

International master Mike Basman said: “Chess ability is a good indicator of future achievement. Under-nine champions will frequently turn up at the best universities 10 years on.”

Visit weyvalleychess.org to get your child involved.