CHESS ace Graham Lilley is preparing to compete in his seventh Chess Olympiad for the Visually Handicapped and he is hoping to attract sponsorship from local businesses and individuals.

Graham, from Windle, is a member of the Braille Chess Association (BCA); the current British Braille Chess Champion and is also a regular competitor in the World Cup and World Championship events. He has also won the British Lightning event in which players can use no more than five minutes each per game.

He is now hoping to add to his silverware when he and four other BCA players represent England at the Chess Olympiad for the Visually Handicapped, which will take place in Poland from August 28 to September 6. However, the cost of the team's trip will be at least £4,000 and Graham is appealing to local businesses and individuals for help with sponsorship.

Anyone requiring further details can contact BCA fund-raiser, Julia Scott on 01788 813065.