Event Recap
The 35th Frome Chess Congress brought players together at Selwood Academy over the weekend of 15th–17th May 2026 for five rounds of competitive chess across five sections: the Open, Major, Intermediate, and Minor (all FIDE-rated), and the ECF-rated Standard (ideal for new players). The time control was 90 minutes per player plus a 30-second increment.
It was another well-attended year, with a strong field across all sections and the placings keenly contested right through to Sunday evening. As ever, the congenial atmosphere of the Selwood venue, the quality of play, and the willingness of so many people to give their time made the weekend possible. Full cross-tables for every section are available via the links on the results page.
Trophy Winners
From the Weekend
With Thanks
A congress of this size only happens because of the people who give their weekends to make it run. Our thanks to everyone who helped, including:
Organisers
For the months of planning, entry administration, and on-the-ground coordination that kept the weekend running smoothly. With thanks to Chris Lamming and Sally Hunt.
Liveboard Helpers
And in particular Ashok Damodaran, for setting up and operating the DGT boards that captured the top-board games for later replay and publication.
Caterers
Ali Finney and the cheerful, ever-smiling team at Devizes Catering Company, for the meals, hot drinks, and snacks that kept players and helpers going across the weekend.
Chess & Bridge
Jim and the team at Chess & Bridge (The London Chess Centre), for supplying equipment for the event and running the bookstall, a long-standing fixture of the congress.
Arbiters
For controlling the rounds across all five sections, handling pairings, and adjudicating fairly throughout. With thanks to chief arbiter John Constable, deputy Derrick Walker, and arbiters Mark Leonard, Chris Purry, Kevin Paine, Ashok Damodaran, Chris Strong, and Bernie Marie.