AN MP is hoping schools will check out his appeal for them to sign up for free chess sets. Alistair Burt, MP for North East Bedfordshire, is encouraging schools in his constituency to take up the offer he has helped to arrange after a recent meeting at th

AN MP is hoping schools will check out his appeal for them to sign up for free chess sets.

Alistair Burt, MP for North East Bedfordshire, is encouraging schools in his constituency to take up the offer he has helped to arrange after a recent meeting at the House of Commons with Holloid Plastics Ltd based in Hampshire.

The company has agreed to sponsor 250,000 chess sets and schools can claim parcels containing 10 sets. Mr Burt decided to take them up on the offer but schools must make their bid as soon as possible.

"I hope schools can take advantage of this generous offer and either contact me or go direct to the English Chess Federation," said Mr Burt.

"Chess is a wonderful game which stretches the mind and is a source of enjoyment for people of all ages.

"It is great that this scheme will encourage a new generation of chess enthusiasts."

Schools wishing to take advantage of the offer should email Mr Burt at burta@parliament.uk or office@englishchess.org.uk