Youngsters proved they are chess masters after winning a tournament.

Junior Boys at Bolton School won the overall team award at this year’s AJIS Chess Tournament, a competition that was hosted at the school.

Mike Porter, who oversaw the boys’ team, said: "Well done to all the boys who competed in the AJIS Chess competition.

"After a short hiatus due to lockdown, it was lovely to see so many children really concentrating well on their games throughout the day and enjoying themselves surrounded by like-minded individuals. "There were lots of medals won by our boys, some of whom are just beginning their chess careers, but particular mention should go to Svojas Dubey, in Year Three, who came through a tough final round to win the under-9 Champion’s Trophy and also to Ashton Morrissey, in Year Six, who won the under-11 Champion’s Trophy after a dramatic final game with his teammate, Ryan Chattopadhyay.

"We also managed to take home the Team Award as a result of the tremendous performances of all the boys who attended. Thank you very much to the many parents who volunteered to help with the running of the day."

Congratulations were also in order for Junior Girls from Bolton School who took part in the same competition. There was some excellent chess in evidence and Mr Wilson was pleased with how much the girls developed their skills over the course of the day. Particular congratulations went to Florence Kennedy, who was awarded a bronze medal in the U9 event.

‘There were ten schools from across the North West in attendance - from as far afield as Newcastle Under Lyme, Birkenhead, Oldham Hulme Grammar, Manchester Grammar, King’s Macclesfield and Merchant Taylor’s. Some schools brought large teams of up to 20 children, others only one; all of different abilities but united in a passion for chess. In all, approximately 150 children played throughout the day,’ said Head of Primary Division, Mrs Sue Faulkner.