Belper C’s season has been shaped by a tense, season‑long battle to avoid relegation from Division 2. Last night they faced fellow strugglers Rolls Royce D in a match that had the potential to define both teams’ campaigns.

A composed 3–1 away victory finally put Belper C’s worries to rest. The two points gained guarantee their safety, with neither of the bottom two sides now able to catch them.

With Belper D also enjoying success at the top of Division 3, the club can now look forward to the prospect of having two teams competing in Division 2 next season — a strong sign of Belper Chess Club’s growing depth and momentum.