Keverel Chess

Devon’s annual match against Dorset has been regularly held in recent years in the picturesque village of Luppitt, tucked away in a hidden valley, high in the Blackdown Hills, near Honiton. And so it is again this year, Saturday 27th October being the date.

The Village Hall is a good playing venue, except for the hardwood floor that makes a degree of noise beneath heavy heels. Players are advised to wear soft-soled shoes or stay seated. Those with sensitive hearing could have earplugs in reserve - just in case.

Both captains are sufficiently on the ball to be able to announce their teams well ahead of this date, and, subject to late changes, this is how the protagonists line up.