THE chessboards are on hand as expert players get ready to do battle at Sticklepath's annual open air chess festival on Saturday, June 12, which will begin the village's midsummer madness celebrations.
The end of season pub chess competition is open for teams of four, played on the Finch Foundry lawn. Even if you have not played for ages, join in and exercise those grey cells.
Teams will be formed on the day at 1.30pm. As in the last ten years, the festival's patron, Grand Master and correspondent William Hartston will adjudicate to ensure fair play.
Between the midsummer ball and not-a-lot-a-tea dance with beer and Pimms on Friday, June 18 and Sunday, June 20, the National Trust is promoting a beer festival on Saturday, June 19 from 11am.
It is a chance to down a few from a wide selection provided by well-known breweries, organised and run by local CAMRA branch members. There will be a hog roast if fine.
More details on all these events can be obtained from the Devonshire Inn on 01837 840626.