Chess bridges a gap of over 80 years

in the ages of these two Bideford enthusiasts, seen concentrating on their weekly game to which they both eagerly look forward.

As his opponent and mentor in the game 10 year old Trevor Cooper, son of Dr and Mrs R A Cooper, of Limers Lane, Northam, has 91 year old Mr T Goaman, of Greenbanks, Chanters Lane, Bideford, hon. freeman of Bideford and former Mayor.

They were brought together when Alderman Mrs Muriel Cox, of Woodside, First Raleigh, a daughter of Mr Goaman, heard of Trevor’s eager search for someone to teach him the game. He had taught himself the names of the pieces, and the moves, and had reached the stage when he needed practice playing. Mrs Cox was delighted for him to come along for some games.

Thursday afternoon is chess afternoon at Woodside and it so happened that Trevor’s visits coincided with those of Mr Goaman to have tea with his daughter. It was not long before the boy found himself with a distinguished and learned opponent who has enjoyed chess over a long lifetime and who also taught the game to his alderman daughter when she was ten.

“They simply adore it,” says Mrs Cox. “The games have become quite a highlight of their week.”

Gazette article dated 24 January 1964