THE seventh Hatherleigh Outdoor International Chess Challenge is set to take place this weekend.

The hardiest of chess players will battle the elements come rain or shine when they line up their pieces on Saturday, June 8 in the Square at 3pm.

The idea for a chess challenge in the area was forged in 1992, with a match between the Red Lion in Exbourne and the Devonshire Inn in Sticklepath.

The two sides represented England and France in a play on the Napoleonic wars, and the winning team was presented with a cup by the governor of Dartmoor Prison to celebrate their victory.

After a resurgence in interest the challenge progressed to its outdoor staging in 2007, and has become a staple on the town calendar ever since.

As usual, organisers are issuing the challenge to all chess fans across the county to enter and see if they can clinch the main prize.

As well as the chess competition there will be Billy Best's Hat Competition, in memory of William Best, a regular member of the Torrington team.

Entry costs £2 per person. For more details phone Neil Price on 07890 615454 or email [email protected]">[email protected]