City of Derry Chess Club host memorable evening to honour two members

The City of Derry Chess Club hosted a memorable evening last Thursday, filled with warmth and camaraderie as members and distinguished guests, including the Mayor of Derry, Lilian Seenoi-Barr, gathered to honour Allan Turnbull's significant contributions on his final official club night.

Allan, a steadfast member of the club since 1975, is stepping back from his active roles but will continue to enrich the club's youth programs by leading sessions every Tuesday. His dedication has extended to making chess accessible to all, including children with learning difficulties and the visually impaired.

The evening also celebrated Ronald Simpson's long-standing involvement since joining in October 1983. Ronald, who was persuaded by Allan to join the City of Derry Chess Club shortly after their first game, has served continuously on the committee since 1984 in various capacities, including Treasurer, Secretary, Publicity Officer, Chairman, and Tournament Controller. His contributions have been crucial in promoting chess in the community through his chess columns in local newspapers.

Club member Liam Hegarty held the two men in high regard as he said: "The club were delighted to honour two of its stalwart members, Mr Allan Turnbull who has been with the club for decades and Mr Ronald Simpson. 

"Allan Turnbull in particular has been promoting chess among primary schools and with children for decades in Derry and the club felt that this needed to be recognised, he also operated as club treasurer. 

"Mr Ronald Simpson similarly does a lot of the heavy lifting for the club organising tournaments and so on. 

"So, when the mayor was contacted, she was delighted to come along and honour the club but also in particular make a presentation to Ronald and Allan. 

Allan played a simplified version of chess with Mayor Seenoi-Barr, focusing on the strategic movement of pawns. This engaging demonstration showcased chess as an accessible and strategic game, embodying Allan's educational and welcoming approach.

Both Allan and Ronald were presented with gifts by Liam in recognition of their tireless dedication. The standing ovation they received from the chess community acknowledged their profound influence not only on the club but also on the broader Derry/Londonderry community.

Liam said: "Chess is very important I would say, people argue about chess; is it a sport or is it an art or is it a cultural activity.

"To me anything that enhances the culture in this city is very important and young people benefit in terms of their concentration and academic skills but there is a great comradeship in playing chess and it is enjoyable with a great sort of sporting rivalry between the players."

The City of Derry Chess Club, enriched by Allan’s and Ronald’s legacies, remains a beacon for those wishing to learn, compete, or simply enjoy the camaraderie that chess brings. The club, meeting every Tuesday (under18s) and Thursday at the Verbal Arts Centre, continues to welcome members of all skill levels, embracing the inclusive and educational principles championed by Allan and Ronald.

Club Chairman Leroy Harris also said that: "This was truly special for our chess club, as we came together not just to celebrate Allan's final game with us, but also to welcome the Mayor. Having the Mayor there really made the evening memorable, showing how much Allan has meant to us and the strong community we've built around our love for chess. It was an honor to have such distinguished support as we celebrated one of our most beloved members."