New chess club opening in Stamford this month
Coffeehouse Chess Club is being launched by MindSpace Stamford
A new chess club is opening in Stamford this month.
Coffeehouse Chess Club is being launched by MindSpace Stamford on 24 November at 7pm.
MindSpace Stamford is a charity which aims to improve people's mental health and wellbeing.
‘Coffeehouse’ is an informal style of chess which is said to emphasise the social aspects of the game.
Chess is reportedly experiencing an "unprecedented boom" at the moment, following the Netflix drama ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ and as many people discovered online chess during the coronavirus pandemic.
MindSpace’s new club will allow both new and experienced chess players of all levels to meet in real life and take part in a social game of chess over coffee and cake.
Volunteer, club organiser and chess enthusiast, Jamie Sutherland, said:
"What I love about chess is that it offers people from different backgrounds, ages and cultures the chance to connect but traditional chess clubs can be a little bit intimidating, especially for beginners.
"Coffeehouse Chess offers a friendly environment for people of all levels of experience to play for fun, improve their game and meet new people."
Founder of MindSpace, Dr Dan Petrie, added:
"I love the fact we’re able to offer a space to connect through an activity like chess which allows a sense of learning, whether you’re new or experienced, hitting several of your 5 Ways to Wellbeing in one go!"
Coffeehouse Chess will take place at MindSpace’s premises at 39 Broad Street, Stamford, on Wednesday evenings at 7pm.