Champion player’s chess set raises 500tl for Tulips

By Carole King and Sue Tilt…

Mr Les Needham, who sadly passed away in October 2014 at the age of 72 years, was a great supporter of Tulips and it is because of this that his family wished for Tulips to be the beneficiaries of his beautiful ebony and blood rosewood chess set.

Les himself was a great chess player, becoming the Leeds champion at the tender age of 16 yrs and playing seriously throughout his entire life.  His Reykjavik ll Prestige Chess Set with board was his pride and joy and it was his wish that the set and board to go to someone who would truly appreciate its history and quality.

It is appropriate that it has gone to a good home with Mr Scott Kennedy with whom he played chess against on this very board.  Scott said he has fond memories battling wits against Les on this very board and he is delighted to have the opportunity to now be the owner and is also proud to be able to donate 500TL to Tulips at the same time.

Tulips would like to express their sincere thanks to the family of Les Needham and to Scott Kennedy.