Ashtead Chess Club - Paul Mercer & Richard Davey

[David Shepherd]

Sadly both Richard Davey and Paul Mercer long standing members of Ashtead chess club died recently. Richard was actively involved in running the junior section of the club and managed the Surrey 100 team last season. Paul also had a long history in chess ranging from the London Boys Championship and Islington Chess Club to Ashtead Chess club with chess in South Africa in the middle. He notched up a few notable results along the way such as a draw against David Howell and I believe a win against GM Pachman in a simul in South Africa.

Both will be sadly missed.

[John Upham]

David,

I am very sorry to hear this. I got to know Richard and had enormous respect for his views plus he was a lovely bloke. He was not afraid to speak his mind and was very supportive of my web work, helping me to reach new users. He had little time for fools and would have enjoyed new blood appearing from the ECF AGM.

I did not know Paul but I am sure they will be a big loss to Ashtead and Surrey chess.