Bridge players go online for Lancaster cancer charity

Back in March, local players from Lancaster Bridge Club were gearing up for the grand final of the 2019/20 CancerCare Bridge Tournament, an annual competition which, over its 27-year history, has raised more than £64,900 for local charity CancerCare.

As with many events, the final had to be abandoned due to the coronavirus pandemic with fears that the group gathering, as well as the sharing of decks of cards, could contribute to the spread and put those in attendance at risk. For the first time in 27 years, no final could be played.

Six months on, the organisers of the tournament are gearing up for the start of the 2020/21 tournament, but many Covid-19 restrictions are still in place and some of the players are still feeling cautious about getting together. The organisers were keen to still show their support for CancerCare and so this year, the tournament is going online!

Organiser Liz Dean said “We know that CancerCare’s fundraising has taken a hit over recent months with events being cancelled – and at a time when people coping with cancer or bereavement need their support more than ever.

"Thanks to technical support from Mandy Middleton, regular competitors in the tournament are trying something new by playing online, and those who don’t have internet access are still making donations to help the charity.

"We also hope that new players may be encouraged to join the tournament this year – as they can play from the comfort of their own homes!”

Jean Higham, 78, from Lancaster, said: “I’d never played bridge online before the lockdown, but it’s quite easy once you get the hang of it! I can play with my usual partners and against other members of Lancaster Bridge Club, who are a great bunch!

"I am missing our get-togethers but I’m looking forward to competing in the tournament and helping to raise money for CancerCare.”

To enter, go online here

The closing date for entries is September 28 and the competition will begin in October.