The press release that follows was written by BCM chairman Shaun Taulbut. I'll just add a few words of my own. I shall be sorry to be leaving BCM after such a long time but am looking forward to new opportunities. I'd like to pass on my thanks to BCM subscribers who have supported us so loyally and hope you continue to do so under the new editor. Also, my thanks go to everybody here at the forum who has said nice things about BCM and helped me in all sorts of ways.
PRESS RELEASE
After eleven years as Editor of the British Chess Magazine, John Saunders will be leaving his position with effect from the end of July 2010. The Directors of the company wish to thank John for his outstanding contribution to the magazine over the period, and to wish him all the best for the future.
At the same time, we are delighted to announce that John’s successor as Editor will be FM Steve Giddins. Steve needs little introduction to BCM readers or the British chess community in general, having been a regular contributor to the BCM in the past. He is also a well-known chess author, journalist and translator, whose books have been warmly received, and whose witty and informative tournament reporting has become a regular feature of such major British chess events as Hastings and the Staunton Memorial.
The past few years have been challenging times for printed media of all kinds, as the growth of the internet has changed the face of traditional journalism. That has been as true of the chess world as any other. Every magazine needs to respond to these challenges, and Steve has some exciting plans for new features and contributors, which will be implemented in the BCM over the succeeding months.
As the BCM heads towards the end of its 130th year of continuous publication, the existing Directors remain fully committed to the business and look forward to seeing it develop. We wish to thank all our readers for their loyal support, and hope that a new generation of readers will join them in supporting the magazine under its new editor.
Shaun Taulbut - Chairman
Stephen Lowe - Director
