Longbridge Chess Club is a friendly and welcoming chess club based in the West Midlands, competing in the Birmingham & District Chess League (BDCL) and Worcester Chess Association Leagues too. We cater for players of all levels, from newcomers learning competitive chess to experienced league players.
At our core, we’re a social club as much as a competitive one. While we take our league matches seriously, the atmosphere at the club is relaxed, supportive, and focused on helping everyone improve and enjoy the game.
Our Club Culture
We pride ourselves on being an inclusive and sociable club. Whether you’re playing in Division 1 or just starting out in league chess, you’ll always find someone willing to analyse a game, offer advice, or just enjoy a casual conversation over the board.
Chess nights at Longbridge are as much about community as competition. Many of our players stay after matches to review games together, share ideas, and enjoy the social side of the club.
Teams & League Participation
We currently field multiple teams across the BDCL divisions and Worcester Leagues too. This gives players of all strengths the opportunity to compete in structured league chess.
Our teams regularly compete in:
- Worcester Champions League
- BDCL Division 2
- BDCL Division 4
- BDCL Division 5
- Minor League (development matches and additional fixtures)
This structure allows players to develop at their own pace while still contributing to the club’s overall success.
Regular Chess Club Players
Some of our regular players include:
Matt
I have been playing chess for around three years and love the game, club nights and matches. I also run the chess academy and enjoy teaching new players how to play.
Rated around 1650
Jordan
Hi, I am Jordan, I have been playing chess for over 20 years. I prefer to play blitz/ rapid chess and I am always happy to help new players learn and improve.
Rated around 1650
Tom
Hi, I’m Tom. I’m a regular at the club when I’m not playing in matches. I enjoy casual social games (preferably with outrageous trash talk), and teaching new players.
Rated around 1600
Gary
Hi, I’m Gary. I’ve been playing chess for as long as I can remember. I think chess is a beautiful game, and I enjoy helping new players learn the basics and develop into solid, confident players.
Rated around 1500
Lennon
I have been playing chess for a few years, but I’ve become much more serious about it since joining Longbridge Chess Club. I hope to become a strong player for the club in the near future.
Rated around 1200
Marcus
I am a big fan of playing chess and attend club and academy most weeks. Sometimes I play in league matches too! I also enjoy playing pokemon go.
Rated around 1200
We have players of all rating at Longbridge Chess Club. If you see any of these players at club night, don’t be afraid to ask them for a friendly game!
Highest Rated Chess Club Players
The club also includes a number of highly rated players who help lead teams and mentor developing members. You can find a list of our top players on the ECF website. Just click here:
According to the recent ranking, the top ten players at Longbridge Chess Club are:
| Name | Standard Rating | Rapid Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Jonathan Swindells | 2251 | 2204 |
| Cory Hazelhurst | 2062 | 2015 |
| Kevin Hurney | 1999 | 1910 |
| Gavin Cartwright | 1930 | 1884 |
| Marcus Walsh | 1919 | 0000 |
| Carmelo Tirado Simarro | 1849 | 1738 |
| Stephen Woodhouse | 1848 | 1778 |
| Mark Bethal | 1792 | 1677 |
| Marvin Wallace | 1748 | 0000 |
| Phil Maddocks | 1739 | 1742 |
These players can occasionally be seen at the club during chess academy and club nights. They play on our strongest teams in Division 1 of the BDCL. We have over 50 rated players at Longbridge Chess Club, and many more unrated too. Come and join us on club night and you will no doubt be able to find a player on your level to have a friendly game with.
Chess Club Committee
Longbridge Chess Club is run by a small committee of dedicated members who help organise fixtures, manage club activities, and support the smooth running of the teams throughout the season.
Our current committee includes:
- Chairman: Stephen Woodhouse
- President: Ian Truscott
- Secretary: Gavin Cartwright
- Treasurer: Rob Davies
- Web Developer: Gary Mason
- Social Media: Kevin Hurney & Katarzyna Kucharek
Each role plays an important part in keeping the club organised, from coordinating league matches to handling communications and supporting players across all teams.
We’re always grateful for the time and effort put in by committee members, many of whom also actively play in league fixtures.
Join Us
We’re always open to new members, whether you’re completely new to chess or already experienced in competitive play. If you’re interested in joining a friendly, active, and competitive chess club, Longbridge Chess Club is a great place to start.
Chess Club Location
The Oak Tree
(Downstairs in the Function Room)
Lickey Road
Rednal
Birmingham
B45 8UX