MIDDLESBROUGH played host to a "royal" visit over the weekend - but these kings and queens were giant chess pieces.

Local members of chess associations for the blind and deaf competed against each other on a giant chess board laid out in the Captain Cook Shopping Centre.

The event was presided over by Gerry Walsh, of the British Chess Federation.

The seventh Middlesbrough Weekend Chess Congress will be held on July 12, 13 and 14 in Middlesbrough Town Hall.

There are sections for all levels of expertise from beginners to experts with prize money totalling more than £1,200.

For an entry form, contact Christine Harforth on (01642) 262119