FIFTY young chess players took part in the first Oxford Rapid Chess Tournament.

Children aged seven to 13 from across the county took part in five rapid chess games, each lasting no more than 10 minutes, organised by the Rosinka Russian Children’s Centre. Rosinka partner and psychologist Tatyana Gordon-Till said: “We wanted to highlight the opportunities for parents to encourage their children to take part in mentally stimulating games in inexpensive and convenient classes.”

The competition, held at North Oxford Community Centre in Summertown, was overseen by David Zakarian, a Master of the World Chess Federation, who has won international tournaments in Greece.

Deputy Lord Mayor of Oxford Alan Armitage said: “The enthusiasm of the children was incredible. They were clearly having a hell of a good time.

“The youngest player was just five, which is impressive in itself.”