Donation to Chess Scotland

September 2004

Chess Scotland is delighted to announce two expanded junior programmes thanks to a generous donation by Mrs Margaret Munn in memory of former Scottish Chess Association President Walter Munn.

Walter was President of the Scottish Chess Association from 1969 to 1985 and Hon President from then till his death in 2001. In addition to his dedicated service at national level he organised many events in the West of Scotland including an annual tournament for disabled juniors in the Glasgow City Chambers. His organisational skills were also used to benefit the Giffnock & Clarkston Chess Club where he was their secretary from 1965 till shortly before his death. He also found time, or made time, to teach chess at many primary schools around Glasgow over a period of years - including in particular two schools for disabled children - Ashcraig and Richard Park.

In recognition of Walter's wide contribution to Scottish chess, two junior services will be enhanced by Chess Scotland.

The Junior Grand Prix has been revamped and prizes introduced at four different age groups for juniors graded below 1350. The four winners will now receive the Walter Munn Junior Grand Prix Shield for annual retention, and £25 of vouchers for Chess Suppliers. In addition, the highest player at every age from 5 to 16 will receive a small trophy similarly engraved for permanent retention. For details of the Junior Grand Prix see the Chess Scotland website.

Increased coaching activity of our top juniors - the current and potential future junior internationalists - is planned for this year. This will be partly financed by Margaret's donation and the scheme will be known as the Walter Munn Junior Chess Coaching Scheme, with certificates for all those taking part.

Chess Scotland is grateful for this gift and in accepting it Chess Scotland warmly acknowledges the huge commitment made by Walter Munn to the game of chess in Scotland.