Spotlight on … Manningtree

After three (failed) attempts in the past five years, Manningtree Chess Club have survived a season in Division 1.

With just one match to play, they are seven points clear of bottom club Sudbury, who cannot escape relegation.   They are currently in joint second place, though well behind leaders and champions-to-be Ipswich A.

Manningtree are also in the Final of the League Cup, where they will face Ipswich.

Next season, Manningtree hope to field a second team.   Eight of their members played this season in Division 1, with Adam Taylor, Phil Hutchings and Jim Buis all scoring 50%.   As mentioned elsewhere, Jim Buis has managed to draw all six of his games!

(With thanks to Jim Buis)