A boom in online chess has sparked hopes of a revival of the tactical board game in Dalbeattie.
The town once boasted its own chess club and along with Kirkcudbright competed at tournaments across Scotland.
But interest dwindled and the club folded several years ago, leaving players without their own group.
Now farmer Matt Taylor has made the opening move in a bid to assemble a pool of local chess competitors.
And to gauge potential interest, Solway Chess Club is to hold an informal “play chess” night in the Birchvale Theatre at 7pm next Wednesday.
Mr Taylor, 60, said: “There used to be a Dalbeattie Chess Club and we would amalgamate with Kirkcudbright to play tournaments.
“I have quite a few people wanting to start it up. I want to test the water to see if there is a demand for a weekly club.
“Suddenly access to social media has resulted in chess becoming a popular activity again. And that gives us a chance to offer the opportunity of playing chess in a club environment, rather than just on their mobile device.
“It’s a case of trying it and seeing what demand is. If it takes off we will have a weekly slot for our new players.”
He added: “These days you can play 10-minute matches online with anybody from all over the world.
“But what’s missing is the face to face interaction – and that is far more beneficial, both socially and competitively.
“And then there’s the chance to have a chat after the game.”
Mr Taylor, 60, encouraged people of all abilities to give the game a go.
And anyone keen to find out how to unravel the mysteries of chess would be given a helping hand.
He also stressed another plus – the mental agility involved in playing the game.
He added: “From what I can gather chess is becoming much more popular because people can just go on their phone and play a game of chess any time. Before you were not able to do that.”
