John Wickham is a long-standing English chess organiser and arbiter based in Norfolk, England. For decades he has been at the centre of county chess life, especially in Great Yarmouth and the wider East Anglian region. Today he is best known as the driving force behind the Great Yarmouth Chess Congress and several county championship events.

As organiser of the Great Yarmouth Chess Congress, he manages the five-round weekend tournament at Great Yarmouth Racecourse. The congress offers three rating sections, ECF-rated classical chess and a friendly seaside atmosphere. Moreover, he works closely with sponsors and the Norfolk County Chess Association. Together they ensure clear regulations and smooth logistics with help from local volunteers.

In addition, he has long been involved in organising county rapidplay, blitz and individual championship events in Norfolk. His experience as a qualified arbiter and administrator helps him create events that are both competitive and welcoming. As a result, the Great Yarmouth Chess Congress has a reputation as a reliable, well-run weekend tournament on the English calendar.

• Email: j.r.wickham@btinternet.com

• Phone: +44 7808 876785

• Website: https://www.norfolkchess.org