Belper Chess Club has a new name on its honours board: James Tiltson, who claimed the 2025/26 Club Championship title after a dramatic tie‑break victory.

In his first year entering the competition (having joined the club midway through the 2024/25 season), James delivered a remarkable performance across the six‑round Swiss‑style tournament, finishing on 5½ points. This placed him level with John Potter, the dominant force of recent years and winner of the last four consecutive championships.

With both players tied at the top, the title came down to a decisive tie‑break match. In a tense encounter, James held his nerve and emerged victorious, securing his first championship and ending John’s impressive winning streak.

The club also congratulates the winners of the rating‑restricted sections. Vaughan Smith captured the U1600 Richard Bailey Cup with a strong 4/6, while Jenny Gartside secured victory in the U1400 section with 3½/6. Both delivered consistent performances across the tournament and fully earned their places atop their respective leaderboards.

Congratulations to all three champions on their superb campaigns and we look forward to seeing what next season will bring!