In a thrilling final game Steve Ledger needed only to draw with Richard Bodily to clinch the Bedford Chess Club Championship. After missing a good line in the middle game Steve found himself in a losing endgame. As usual he defended stoutly and in the end it was the clock that forced Richard to repeat moves and agree a draw. Preliminary analysis by Fritz strongly suggests that Richard maintained a winning advantage right to the end, but the correct line from the final position involves a bold piece sacrifice to force through the K-side united passed pawns.
After the game Chairman Paul Habershon took the opportunity to present the trophy to Steve who will be unable to attend the AGM.
