David Welch RIP

It was with great sadness that we learned of the death of David Welch. He was a key member of Hastings Chess Congress for many years, and remained a member of the Congress Committee long after he suffered a stroke while in Gibraltar two and half years ago.   

He became a controller of the Hastings Premier tournament in 1973, when the lead sponsor was the financier Jim Slater. He was presiding over an illustrious group of players including Timman, Tal, Szabo, Gligoric and Benko. David continued to be a member of the arbiting team for many years until his stroke. His contribution was immense, not only as an arbiter but as member of the Congress committee. As well as his role as Arbiter, he was also extremely generous towards the Congress. His support – in several different ways – will always be recognised.

David was awarded a FIDE medal for Services to Arbiting in 2016.

His chess friends were a great support during his last years, and his passing will leave a great gap in many lives. We are sorry he will not be able to watch the forthcoming Congress.

RIP David …
Picture courtesy of Keverel Chess