AFTER the first round matches of the Borders League played on October 15, Galashiels are in first place with two points and four board wins to their credit.

In second place are Berwick, also on two points but with only three-and-a-half board wins. Kelso and Selkirk are third and fourth respectively, each with no points but Kelso with one-and-a-half board wins to Selkirk’s one.

The next round of matches are not due to be played until November 12 when Selkirk will host Berwick and Galashiels are away to Kelso.

Readers are again reminded that the above chess clubs will welcome anybody who is interested in chess, regardless of their ability. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginer as the more experienced players in the clubs will be only happy to provide coaching.

You don’t have to be a Grandmaster to enjoy the game so why not come along and give it a try. For the Galashiels club contact Francis Lauder (01896 754462); for Kelso, Martin Keen (01750 23171); for Selkirk, Iain Thompson (01750 20557); and for Berwick contact Stuart Robinson (01361 883165).

The Earlston Chess Club would also welcome new members and interested parties should contact George Birbeck on 01896 849418, or just come along at 7pm on Monday evenings to Earlston Primary School where signs are in place to direct you to our club room.

Meanwhile, with no matches being played this week in the Borders Chess League, here is another chess problem for you to solve. It is slightly more difficult than the last one but should still be relatively easy to solve. The solution will appear next time.