Keith Hylands, 1948-2024

[Roger Lancaster]

I have to report the sad news that Keith Hylands has died. Keith's membership of Watford Chess Club (he was also a member of the Greater London club) goes back to at least 2005 and he last played in a club match on 29 April. Keith was never a star player but he was a thoroughly nice guy, genuinely well-liked by those who knew him. As well as club chess, he was a regular at weekend tournaments, most recently playing in the Isle of Wight Congress earlier in April. His son Liam also played for Watford at one point.

Keith had been unwell for some time and was finally diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in late June, following which he went downhill rapidly,* passing away on Friday 5 July. Funeral is at West Herts Crematorium, 11.30 on Thursday 18 July, followed by a wake at West Herts Sports Club where Keith was a member. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Macmillan cancer care or the Unicef Gaza appeal.

[Dave Lightfoot]

Very sorry to hear this. RIP Keith. A lovely bloke and a pleasure to have on the Isle of Wight in April.

I found this shot of him from the Congress.

[Lee Bullock]

Genuinely shocked by this. As only saw him a few months ago at St Albans and said Hi etc. chatted about our at 4ncl congress a few years ago. Had no idea he was ill. .

In our game he lost a knight on move 4. But played on and made it tough for me. Seemed nice guy. You just never know do you