Allan Short:

Let me introduce myself. My name is Allan Short and I am currently Headmaster at a school in Cumbria. For those of you who do no know me, let me explain why someone living 150 miles from Runcorn should wish to write for you.

Back in September 1979, as a shy and somewhat awkward 13 year old, I walked into Gorsewood Community Centre where Runcorn Chess Club were holding a Club night. Despite Dave Shaw, and many others, wiping the proverbial chessboard with me, I was hooked. The Club moved swiftly to St. Eddy's Church Hall and I followed. During the season my play developed and I even played for the team in half a dozen matches. My performances were stunning. Well ask Colin, because he was certainly stunned when I secured my first half a point - I offered a draw instead of winning immediately with MATE-IN-ONE!!!

My first grade was 70J and with such obvious potential Tanner Chess Club offered me a regular 'D' team place and as much Pop & Crisps as I could manage. Three years in the Wilderness followed before a stunning transfer coup brought me back to the bosom of Runcorn Chess Club.

The season 1983-84 was the highlight of my Chess career. With a grade of around 150J I was given the honour of playing Board 1 for a victorious and rampant Runcorn side.

1. Allan Short; 2: Martin Hewitt; 3: Dave Shaw; 4: Colin Ford; 5: John Harvey; 6: Dominic Hewitt; reserve: Simon Atkinson.

This team not only took the 3^rd Division by storm but climaxed the season by securing 3^rd place in the Kalmar Cup in a play-off with Penketh Chess Club.