Edinburgh Scrabble Club turns 40

Edinburgh Scrabble Club recently celebrated their 40th Anniversary in some style with a tournament at the Carlton Bridge Club, home to the club's regular Monday night meetings.

Over the years the club has been fundamental in the development of tournament scrabble in Edinburgh, with members organising the first Edinburgh tournament, the first Scottish Championships, and introducing the Scottish League.

In October's edition of Onboard, the ABSP's bi-monthly magazine for members, long-standing club members Margaret Harkness and Amy Byrne looked back fondly at some of their most treasured memories of the club, with special mention given to meeting the wonderful mix of characters from every walk of life and culture all with a shared passion for the game.

Appropriately given the milestone, 40 players including some from overseas took part in their latest event across 3 divisions with a bumper crop of 29 prizes awarded. Everyone in attendance received a commemorative pen, and among the delicious sweet treats available was a celebration cake, cut by longest serving club member Kenneth Ross, as pictured. You can view some additional photos from the event here.

Joyce Clegg was unbeaten in Division C, with one of the club's youngest members, 13 year-old Rory Kemp in 2nd place. Sandra Hoffland pipped Brian McNaughton to top honours in Division B - both were on 6 wins but Sandra was almost 500 spread points clear. The top division saw the return of a once familiar face, Helen Gipson playing her first rated Scrabble in over three years. For Helen, it obviously was just like riding a bike as she finished the day as only the 2nd unbeaten player, 2 games clear of her nearest rival, Alan Sinclair. Helen would like to thank everyone for welcoming her back as if she had never been away and is totally shocked but happy with such a good result.

Here's to the next 40 years!