THE Rotary Chess Education Initiative, an international project set up in the borough, is sponsoring a major chess competition in Sri Lanka. Next Monday the British High Commissioner will be greeting the finalists in Colombo, attended by Ravinder Sharma, president of the Rotary Club of Teddington and the Hamptons who will present awards to the winners.

The Initiative was founded by prominent local businessman Stanley Grundy and has made great strides in promoting chess across the world.

Stanley believes that the playing of chess offers great benefits. He points out that research demonstrates that chess players significantly out-perform their non chess-playing contemporaries in terms of literacy, numeracy and attendance records at school.

Chess players become more self-confident, and success in chess inspires children to aspire and achieve in other areas of their lives. Stanley says: "Chess appeals to children because it is fun, and anyone can play, regardless of physical ability, race, class, age or gender. Chess is a sociable activity that helps bring children together by breaking down potential barriers."

The aims of the Rotary Chess Education Initiative are: lTo promote, develop and support the playing of chess among young people across the world lTo provide encouragement for disadvantaged children.

lTo encourage young people to take up a challenging hobby that is also fun.

lTo develop the skills of each individual, through a programme of coaching, with a view to identifying future champions.

Further information can be found on the website www.rotarychess.org