Open Thoughts: Session Four

Today we enjoyed the fourth Open Thoughts session at Yarm's Costa Coffee.

I invited several new people for this session, including David Berry, who will soon be opening up Grind & Gambit, Teesside's first-ever chess cafe.

We had games of three-way chess, four-way chess, Maharajah chess, three-check chess and even some normal games of chess too.

The relaxed atmosphere promoted good fun and fine conversations. Chess should never be just about rating points and bragging rights!

Thank you to everyone who helped to make the morning such a great success, including Costa's Jolita, shown (above) making the first move.

It was also the chess gathering with the finest selection of colours for both chess pieces and drinks ever seen in the history of chess itself.

Open Thoughts will return towards the end of Summer.

Grind & Gambit

Coming soon: A brand new chess cafe, in Seaton Carew!

Here is what to expect:

'Grind & Gambit was born from a simple idea: coffee should fuel both the daily grind and the game plan.

As a proudly independent coffee shop and board game café in Seaton Carew, Hartlepool, we created a space where strategy meets speciality coffee.

Whether you're mapping out your next big move, attending our chess club in Seaton Carew, Hartlepool, catching up with friends, or finding a quiet corner to recharge, we’ve created a safe space that blends warmth, creativity and playful strategy.'

Follow this link for further details, including forthcoming news on the launch date.