Farewell to Francis

Shrewsbury Chess Club recently held a special evening to say goodbye to club stalwart Francis Best with a social gathering and buffet at Cromwell’s in Dogpole, ahead of Francis’s move away from the area.

Francis has been a key figure in the club’s A team over the past 25 years, including being part of two title-winning teams, captaining the team for a number of years and regularly playing on board one, where he excelled last season.

He also held key roles on Shropshire Chess Association’s committee and has been heavily involved with junior chess in the area, including his work in recent years with Shropshire Junior Chess Club.

He will leave a huge hole at both club and county level, and his substantial contribution to the local Chess scene will always be remembered!

Best of luck Francis!