Dear Chess friends, Stephen Thacker Attended his first UK Braille Chess
Association event in 1979 when, at the age of 16 he entered the British
Championship. This was the first of many BCA events he played in over
the next 43 years. In addition to being totally blind and suffering with
severe hearing loss, he also had to battle with a number of other health
issues. He always dealt with all these problems with great fortitude
and courage. Stephen's over the board playing strength generally ranged
between 95 and 110 in the British Chess Federation grading system that
was in place until it changed to the 4 digit system a couple of years
ago. That was the ELO equivalent of around 1410 to 1525. Steve was
admired by all who knew him. He had booked to play in the BCA British
Championship that will be played in June of this year.
Stan Lovell
Stan.lovell32@xxxxxxxxx
