TWO Stockton schools have received a grant to expand their chess clubs.

The Links Primary School and Teesside High Preparatory School have been awarded £22,000 to develop the clubs, which they operate between them.

The two-year grant is part of the Department for Education and Skills' Building Bridges award scheme.

The project includes teaching children in both schools the basics of chess, regular inter-school tournaments and matches, coaching for players of all abilities and visits from grandmasters to provide further coaching and inspiration.

Keith Arkell, a current chess grandmaster, will visit both schools on November 29 and 30.

Sean Marsh, who teaches chess at The Links School, said: "This is an incredible opportunity for the children of both schools to gain a greater understanding of the game of chess and they are all looking forward to Keith Arkell's visit."