A presentation was made on 16 January in honour of the 80th birthday, that very day, of Graham Heath.

Graham joined Wallasey Chess Club in 1982 and has held various senior offices since that time, including President from 2003-13 and over 20 years (in two stints) in his current position as Tournament Secretary.

He is one of the longest-standing and most highly respected members of the club, still arriving early twice a week to open up and set up the playing room, and tidying up afterwards.

Before play got underway on Thursday night, club Secretary Craig Jones presented Graham with one of his favourite Garde analogue chess clocks, with which he has been so loathe to part in our recent equipment upgrade! Graham accepted it with typical understated humility.

The plaque affixed to the clock reads:

Presented to Graham Heath on the occasion of his 80th birthday by his friends and colleagues at Wallasey Chess Club in recognition of his many years of dedicated service. “Timeless!”