Backgammon tournament to take place in Devon

A games enthusiast has set up a backgammon tournament after he says there has been a surge in popularity.

Players from across Devon are expected to attend Torbay Hotel in February to play the game.

Warner Solomon, who is running the event, said he was a keen player and since July had organised taster sessions for new players at Totnes Cinema.

He added that 64 players were expected at the tournament.

“It’s the first tournament of its kind in Devon and we’re very excited about it," said Mr Solomon.

To play the game, two players have round pieces called stones or soldiers and by using two dice, players try to get their pieces off the board.

Mr Solomon said he started the weekly sessions as a way of introducing more people to the game.

“As a social thing I think it’s really great. It’s a meeting place for people, but also they learn to play a game which is very skilful and very enjoyable," he said.

"People just love to compete."

Player Gerald Whitehouse said: "It’s the game of life.

"There are ups and down in life, so you can be sailing along, and something happens, and it turns your world upside down and backgammon is the same.

"Sometimes you’re winning, and then suddenly the dice dictate, and it changes, and you can lose from a winning position.

"But its great fun and is a game for everyone.”

Player Anna Hendriksen said she had played for more than 30 years.

Ms Hendriksen said: “I like it because it’s quite quick, you can play a game in 15 minutes.

"I can teach somebody in three games."

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