Some of the island’s newest bridge players took the opportunity to learn from some of the most experienced at St Andrew’s Church hall.

The students are part of a group who are learning the game from Liz Kelly at University College Isle of Man.

While the college was on half term, Liz brought her pupils to pair with players from Douglas Bridge Club, where they had the chance to speak to and learn from some of the island’s most experienced players including club chairman John Stewart who is ranked as a national master.

Liz began tutoring at the college as numbers at her club had been falling andthey were looking for new players.

She told the Examiner: ’I wanted to encourage new players and thought by teaching at the college it would reach a wider audience.

’I have never taught anything before but after attending a two day teaching course run by the English Bridge Union I applied to the college to teach bridge.’

Liz enjoyed the course and has added to it this year, including by creating a beginners’ booklet with friends.

Despite its reputation, Liz said bridge is not a massively difficult game: ’Bridge isn’t as difficult as it is perhaps perceived. It can be hard but it can be played at a basic level and it is brilliant for helping stave off dementia by keeping the grey matter working.

’It can be played at any level. Some people play socially at home with a few friends, some play online and some play at clubs. Really, it is up to each player to decide how far they take it and if you’re really keen the Manx Bridge Union send a team to the Commonwealth Games so if you are competitive it’s something to aim for.’

She said the night with Douglas Bridge Club was a success: ’Everyone really enjoyed the night and I am hoping to hold another one at the end of term in six weeks’ time.

’It’s not just for my students, any other bridge players who would like to get involved as either a mentor or mentee should email me for more information.’

Contact Liz by email at [email protected]