By Grant Woodward
HE'S only eight years old but little James Bowler is well on his way to becoming a Grand Master.
The Leeds youngster is celebrating after checkmating his challengers in the British Chess Championships.
James triumphed in the under eights category of the tournament, which was held on the Isle of Man.
It added to a string of successes this year, which have seen him lift the London Junior, the English Primary Schools and Yorkshire titles.
He also won the Manchester Championships at the weekend, with his brother Robert, ten, finishing second.
James, from Gildersome, said: "I thought I would do quite well at the British Championships but it was absolutely brilliant to win it.
"I love chess because you can play over and over again and it won't get boring.
"I like army games and that's what chess is like – two armies fighting against each other.
"It's also helpful with other things, like schoolwork. You need to concentrate when you're playing chess and that helps with your concentration at school."
James and Robert, who both go to Churwell Primary School in Morley, hone their skills by playing against each other and also have extra coaching.
"We don't really get mad at each other," said James. "We're normally OK and pleased if the other one does well."
Robert is set to compete in a play-off this week for the under tens title in the Northern Counties Championships and also has hopes of making the England team.
The two boys are also due to take part in a forthcoming international tournament which is open to chess players from around the world.
Mum Cath said: "My husband Andy taught them to play and we are very proud of them, although he is not overly happy when they beat him!"
grant.woodward@ypn.co.uk