BERNARD MAGEE’S QPLUS 10 INTERACTIVE TUTORIALS Really user-friendly ACOL MORE DECLARER bridge-playing BIDDING (ADVANCED) PLAY ACOL BIDDING software l Opening Bids and l Suit Establishment Responses l Basics in No-trumps l Updated comprehensive l Slams and Strong l Advanced Basics l Suit Establishment manual Openings in Suits l Weak Twos l Displays on l Support for Partner l Hold-ups £86 l Strong Hands HD screen l Pre-empting l Ruffing for l Defence l Supports large Extra Tricks l Overcalls to Weak Twos screens £66 l Entries in l No-trump l Defence to 1NT l Minibridge option No-trumps £76 Openings l Doubles l Extra 500 preplayed and Responses l Delaying hands for teams l Two-suited Drawing Trumps l Opener’s and £96 making 5,000 in all Overcalls Responder’s Rebids l Using the Lead l Extra 500 preplayed l Defences to l Minors and Misfits l Trump Control hands for match- Other Systems point pairs making l Doubles l Endplays & 4,000 in all l Misfits and Avoidance l Competitive Distributional l Improvement Auctions Hands l Using the Bidding over two years from version 9 l New save match ADVANCED DEFENCE FIVE-CARD function DECLARER PLAY MAJORS & l Lead vs l Save deals with Strong No-Trump l Making Overtricks automatic file No-trump Contracts in No-trumps l Opening Bids labelling l Lead vs & Responses l Making Overtricks Suit Contracts l Closed room – new in Suit Contracts l No-Trump button to view l Partner of Leader Openings other table l Endplays vs No-trump Contracts l Support £89 l Avoidance for Partner l Partner of Leader QPLUS l Wrong £81 vs Suit Contracts l Slams Contract TRADE-IN & Strong Openings l Count OFFER l Simple Signals l Rebids Squeezes Return any QPLUS l Attitude l Minors CD and booklet with l Counting £76 Signals & Misfits a cheque for £35 the Hand and receive the very l Discarding l Pre-empting l Trump Reductions latest version of the & Coups l Defensive Plan l Doubles wonderful QPLUS Bridge. l Playing Doubled l Stopping Declarer l Overcalls Contracts Order with absolute l Counting l Competitive confidence. l Safety Plays the Hand Auctions

Make your cheque payable to Mr Bridge and send to: Mr Bridge , Ryden Grange, Knaphill, Surrey GU21 2TH ( 01483 489961 www.mrbridge.co.uk/mrbridge-shop Fax 01483 797302

System Requirements: Windows XP, Vista or 7, 8mb RAM, CD-ROM FEATURES ADVERTISEMENTS 5 Mr Bridge 2 QPlus and Tutorial Software BRIDGE 10 The Baron Mr Bridge Calculates the Odds 3 2013 Bridge Payers’ Ryden Grange by Dick Atkinson Diaries 2013 Knaphill, Surrey GU21 2TH 13 Justin Corfield says 4 Cruise to the Caribbean Lead from Length on mv Voyager Bridge ( 01483 489961 with Four Trumps 5 Christmas 2012 e-mail: Players’ 15 Heather Dhondy says 6 Voyages to Antiquity [email protected] Pre-empt to the August and October website: Limit First Time Cruises Diaries www.mrbridge.co.uk 17 David Stevenson 7 Tunisia 2012/3 Answers Publisher and Your Questions 8 It’s Only a Game Managing Editor 21 Bidding Quiz 9 Mail Order Form Mr Bridge by Bernard Magee 9 Cut-out Form Associate Editors 22 Bidding Quiz 12 Voyages of Discovery Bernard Magee Answers 2012 Cruises by Bernard Magee Julian Pottage 14 Voyages of Discovery 23 Defence Quiz Voyager 2013 Cruises Technical Consultant by Julian Pottage Tony Gordon 16 Voyages of Discovery 24 Defence Quiz Discovery 2013 Cruises Contents include Answers ♦ Acol Summary Proof Readers 18 Duplicate Bridge by Julian Pottage by Bernard Magee. Tony & Jan Richards Rules Simplified Danny Roth 25 Declarer Play Quiz ♦ Guide to the Laws. by David Huggett 20 Bridge Events Richard Wheen with Bernard Magee ♦ Scoring Tables for Hugh Williams 26 Declarer Play Answers duplicate and 21 S R Bridge Tables by David Huggett rubber bridge. Office Manager 21 Bridge Tie ♦ 27 Lead Quiz Distributional odds. Jane Cavell by Andrew Kambites 22 Mr Bridge ♦ Hand patterns and Playing Cards fascinating figures. Events & Cruises 28 Lead Quiz Answers ( 01483 489961 by Andrew Kambites 23 Mr Bridge Rubber/ ♦ Seven cover colours: Chicago Events red, navy blue, tan, Rosie Baker 29 The A to Z of black, ivory, green, Jessica Galt Bridge: M 25 Bernard Magee’s and burgundy. by Julian Pottage Tips for Better Bridge Rachel Everett ♦ All covers printed in Megan Riccio 33 Julian Pottage 27 Mr Bridge Tutorial gold-coloured ink. Answers Your Questions Bridge Breaks Sophie Pierrepont ♦ Individual diaries £6.95 32 Bernard Magee’s each including p&p. Clubs & Charities 37 The Guide To Good Acol Hand Evaluation Maggie Axtell ♦ Special concession Bidding & Play 38 Global Travel Insurance to bridge clubs. 10 or [email protected] reviewed more diaries £3.50 40 Bridge Event by David Huggett each including p&p. Address Changes Booking Form Elizabeth Bryan 41 Readers’ Letters ♦ Luxury version with 40 Charity Bridge super-soft kidrell cover, 44 The Diaries of Events ( 01483 485342 Wendy Wensum gilded page edges [email protected] 42 Stamps and a ball-point pen 45 Catching Up attached, in ruby red, All correspondence should by Sally Brock 48 Chetenham navy blue or green. Literary Festival £14.95 each be addressed to Mr Bridge. 46 Seven Days including p&p. Please make sure that all by Sally Brock 48 Festival Offer letters, e-mails and faxes carry full postal addresses See Mail Order Form The views expressed in this publication are not and telephone numbers. on page 9. necessarily those of the publisher or its Managing Editor.

Page 3 1162 Mr Bridge 3itins ad Final_Layout 1 09/02/2012 13:54 Page 1

SINGLE CABIN SUPPLEMENTNO CRUISES TO CLASSICAL CIVILISATIONS * BRIDGE CRUISES - AUTUMN 2012

ISTANBUL TO ATHENS VENICE TO ATHENS ATHENS TO ATHENS ENJOY SPECIAL AUGUST 27, 2012 OCTOBER 8, 2012 OCTOBER 18, 2012 Venice CROATIA I�anbul SAVINGS ON I�anbul Zadar Mount Kornati Islands Split Athos 3 EXCITING VOYAGES Trogir Hvar ITALY Korcula Dubrovnik Skiathos Lemnos Bay of Kotor Skiathos MONTENEGRO Izmir TURKEY TO ANTIQUITY GREECE GREECE Ephesus Athens Athens Sámos Kusadasi TURKEY Corfu Mycenæ Mykonos Aphrodisias Mykonos Arta GREECE Delos Join us on Aegean Odyssey for a Nauplia Delos Preveza Nauplia Ithaca Monemvasía CYCLADES Rhodes wonderful Voyage to Antiquity and Santorini Katakolon Olympia Athens Nauplia CRETE Knossos discover the art, history and cultures of Rethimnon CRETE Rethimnon the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Aegean. Choose from three Mr Bridge Autumn DATE PORT DATE PORT DATE PORT sailings, each offering extraordinary Aug 27 Fly to ISTANBUL Turkey Oct 8 Fly to VENICE Italy Oct 18 Fly to ATHENS Greece value for money. More good news is Transfer to Aegean Odyssey Transfer to Aegean Odyssey Transfer to Aegean Odyssey Oct 9 Oct 19 that there are no single supplements* Aug 28 Cruising the Dardanelles VENICE Italy NAUPLIA Greece and all cruises are hosted by members LEMNOS Greek Islands Oct 10 ZADAR Croatia Oct 20 MONEMVASÍA Greece Aug 29 SKIATHOS Greek Islands Cruising the Kornati Islands Oct 21 RETHIMNON Crete of the Mr Bridge team. SPLIT Croatia Aug 30 IZMIR Turkey Oct 22 RHODES Greek Islands Cruise in comfort, relax in style Oct 11 SPLIT Croatia Oct 23 Aegean Odyssey is a premium class Aug 31 IZMIR Turkey Oct 12 DELOS Greek Islands KORCULA Croatia MYKONOS Greek Islands Sept 1 DUBROVNIK Croatia ship carrying just 350 passengers. The DELOS Greek Islands Oct 24 MYKONOS Greek Islands Oct 13 SAMOS Greek Islands atmosphere on board is relaxed with DUBROVNIK Croatia KUSADASI Turkey Sept 2 SANTORINI Greek Islands Oct 14 plenty of passenger space, a choice of CORFU Greek Islands Oct 25 KUSADASI Turkey restaurants (with open-seating dining) Sept 3 Oct 15 RETHIMNON Crete PREVEZA Greece Oct 26 At Sea and generously-sized accommodations, Sept 4 ITHACA Greece NAUPLIA Greece Oct 27 ISTANBUL Turkey plus the comfort and attentive service Oct 16 KATAKOLON Greece Sept 5 PIRAEUS Greece Oct 28 Oct 17 ISTANBUL Turkey of boutique-style cruising. Fly home from Athens NAUPLIA Greece Oct 29 SKIATHOS Greek Islands Oct 18 PIRAEUS Greece SPECIAL FARES INCLUDE: Oct 30 10 days from £1,450 including: Fly home from Athens PIRAEUS Greece PROGRAMME OF SHORE EXCURSIONS Views of Mount Athos monasteries; visits Fly home from Athens to Ephesus and Pergamon; the Greek 11 days from £1,795 including: EXPERT ANTIQUITY LECTURE PROGRAMME islands of Lemnos, Skiathos, Santorini, Guided tour of Venice including a 13 days from £1,995 including: WINE WITH DINNER & GRATUITIES Delos and Mykonos; Minoan Crete; private evening visit to St Mark’s; the Guided tours of ancient Mycenae and classical Mycenae. Roman Forum in Zadar and Palace of Monemvasía; Minoan Knossos; the EXCLUSIVE COCKTAIL PARTY Diocletian in Split; Korcula and Hvar; Citadel of the Knights of St John, Rhodes; SCHEDULED AIR & TRANSFERS ABROAD Dubrovnik and Kotor Bay; Venetian the sanctuary of Delos; Roman Ephesus; Corfu; Byzantine Arta and Ithaca; the monuments of Aphrodisias; treasures ancient Olympia and Mycenae. of Istanbul; Mount Athos monasteries.

BOOK NOW CALL ON ACCOMPANIED BY BRIDGE PLAYERS 01483 489 961 There is a supplement of £30 per person for those wishing TEAM MEMBERS to participate in the duplicate bridge programme. Prices are per person, double occupancy, and include MR BRIDGE SPECIAL SAVINGS. *The number of cabins with no single supplement is strictly limited. Please book early to avoid disappointment. Singles are made especially welcome and a partner will always be found. The bridge programme is completely optional and Mr Bridge passengers can participate as much, or as little as they wish. This offer is subject to availability, is capacity controlled and may be withdrawn at any time.

VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY INTRODUCING DISTURBED CHELTENHAM VOYAGER In the course of writing Mr Bridge these pages, I received a note from Mr Cotterill of Christmas Great Oak, Raglan, who would like to know why & New Year Swiss Teams are called Swiss. He thought it might 2012/13 be because they were Bernard Magee will be developed in Switzerland, speaking at this festival on Duplicate Bridge but that seems too obvious. Monday 8 October. Further It was a good guess. The details on the back cover. Denham Grove movement was first used in Those wishing to hear him Near Uxbridge, UB9 5DU Switzerland for chess live should seize the congresses. I just thought chance. The Cheltenham you’d like to know. If you Literature Festival has It is just over nine years have any other bridge grown over the twelve years since I stood on Harwich related queries, don’t since its inception. The quayside in a mid-May hail hesitate to give me a call or organisers are widening its storm. I was there along send an email. If I don’t scope and have chosen to with Mrs Bridge, to see mv. know the answer, I will include bridge. Hooray. Discovery blessed by the pass it to one of my experts. 24-27 Dec £455 local bishop and launched overnight Just Bridge by the redoubtable Mrs NEW SOFTWARE (small separate section Dudley Smith. A truly I have taken all the for rubber / Chicago) memorable night. Later this remaining rooms at the Jo Walch year, the owners, All Best Western Cheltenham 27-29 Dec £215 Leisure plc, are launching Regency Hotel. Dinner on their latest acquisition, mv. Sunday night is followed by Game Tries Voyager, on 3 December. duplicate bridge for those 29 Dec – 1 Jan £445 who want it, bed and The next day she sails out Finding Slams breakfast, parking at the of Portsmouth on her hotel and return coach inaugural voyage. The Olde Barn travel to and from central Marston, Lincs NG32 2HT Now, who on earth wants Cheltenham together with to set sail in December? At long last the first Better tickets for both seminars, You may well ask. The only Bridge with Bernard Magee all for £99 per person people I can think of are CD is ready. It is based on sharing. Singles £139. Yes, bridge players, which is the topics covered in the six there is a supplement and why I commend this lectures given by Bernard at nothing I can do about it. inaugural cruise to you. Haslemere last year. So please, no complaints. I As there are open dinner really do try my best for There are 20 hands per sittings every night, you you and the package is a subject. In the films that 24-27 Dec £455 may choose to play either real bargain for everyone. were made of the seminars, Just Bridge before or after. There will Bernard explains each topic A great outing. If it works, also be lots of days at sea 27-29 Dec £215 and the new CD provides I will try and put the same with daily seminars for Doubles the supervised play. together for Haslemere. those that want them. A Patrick Dunham cracking good price. When you have played all 2013 DIARIES 29 Dec – 1 Jan £445 120 hands, you can reset £999pp, sharing. No single Losing Trick Count supplement for singles the software to issue the These are now in stock. booking outside cabins. hands randomly. This is a Standard covers £6.95. See Patrick Dunham standalone product, page 9 for details, club price Tony and Jan Richards will although a set of the DVDs 10 for £35. Luxury kidrell host the on board bridge ( 01483 489961 will greatly improve both covers £14.95, 10 for £95. and being the inaugural [email protected] the educational value and voyage, I will be on board www.holidaybridge.com the enjoyment. CONSTITUTION for the first four nights, Please call if you would like a looking forward to meeting This is Bernard Magee at A draft copy will be emailed sample copy of the programme friends, old and new. his best. A must have. to you upon request.

Page 5 Exclusive Fares for an inside from £999pp cabin No Single Supplement on selected outside cabins starting from just £1,349*

Voyage to the Caribbean *No Single Departing 4 December-21 December 2012 – 18 days Supplements on On board mv Voyager selected Outside Portsmouth ~ La Coruña ~ Funchal ~ St Kitts ~ Antigua Cabins Martinique ~ Barbados (overnight)

The ‘Crystal City’ and ‘Pearl of the Atlantic’ are the gems at the forefront of Voyager’s journey taking you across the ocean to where the dazzling blue skies and stunning azure waters of the Caribbean promise four glittering island treasures. St Kitts – once the Mother Colony of the West Indies, Antigua – a showcase of colonial architecture, Martinique – a little piece of France in the Caribbean and Barbados – the Caribbean’s own ‘Little England’.

All passengers will be eligible for seminars, drinks parties, quiz competitions, daily evening bridge before and after dinner and afternoon bridge when at sea. The bridge programme is fully optional and you may participate as much or as little as you wish. Mr Bridge actively encourages singles to join the party and they will always be found a partner for a game.

YOUR VOYAGE INCLUDES PORTSMOUTH

• Evening Duplicate bridge sessions† • Afternoon bridge when at sea

ST KITTS • Bridge seminars when at sea ANTIGUA LA CORUÑA • Exclusive Mr Bridge drinks parties • All meals, entertainment and MARTINIQUE gratuities onboard • Comprehensive lecture and guest BARBADOS speaker programme • Captain’s cocktail parties and gala dinners

FUNCHAL

01483 489961 for brochures and bookings www.bridgecruises.co.uk

All fares shown are correct at time of going to print, include all applicable discounts and are subject to change at any time. £999pp fare is based on two people sharing the lowest grade twin bedded cabin currently available based on price per person. *£1349 fare is based on a single passenger travelling in the lowest outside cabin suitable for a single passenger, exclusive fares are strictly capacity controlled, a cabin number may not be allocated at time of booking and may be withdrawn at any time. † Those wishing to play evening bridge please note there is a bridge supplement of £30 per bridge player to be paid at time of booking. Only bookings made directly with Mr Bridge are eligible to be part of the Mr Bridge Group. Voyages of Discovery is a trading name of All Leisure Holidays Ltd.

Bridge 116 - Advert 1.indd 1 09/07/2012 10:33:20 ANTIQUITY payable to L.U.C.I.A Little Voice and send me two 2nd Mr Bridge £169 class stamps to cover the Promoting weekends for cost of posting. Thank you. AT THE my readers is what I do. I held two dates at the ROYAL KENZ Chatsworth Hotel for the FINAL MAC OFFER TUNISIA end of the year for Bernard If you’ve a Mac or should I Magee only to find he is say Apple Macintosh Two-week double-booked. Best to take computer and want a play the loss now than let it program but do not want half-board Escape from this wet creep up on me. the expense of buying the duplicate summer and book one of Windows system for Mac, these great cruises, all still 16 – 18 November bridge holiday then Bridge Baron 22 is the available at the lead-in Crombie McNeil program for you. £63. prices quoted. Finding Slams Upgrades from Bridge No single supplement. 30 – 2 December Ned Paul Baron 21 are £15. Just post On the 27 August cruise, I End Play and Avoidance in your disc and cheque shall be taking a two night and receive it by return. To pre-cruise extension and There is a full support team trade in earlier versions, sampling the highlights of for both weekends with full send the old disc and £36. Athens. Why not stay at supervised play for those one of the world’s great who want it and just NO NEED TO duplicate sessions for those hotels and enjoy the view CANCEL over the Acropolis at who want just duplicate. sunset. That alone should £169 per person. No single Please bear in mind that by make the stay worthwhile. supplement. Payment in agreeing to receive a full at time of booking. printed copy of BRIDGE CLUB INSURANCE Debit cards or cheques and/or my emag Bridge Weekly you will receive all preferred. Strictly subject to 4-18 November 2012 Sorry to nag but insurance the Mr Bridge promotional availability. Golf available is all about being covered material. This is part of the for those risks even the Tony and Jan Richards ONE LAST PUSH deal. Sorry, but that’s the brightest committee way it is. £769* members haven’t yet One last push to promote thought of. The premium second hand QPlus in 24 Feb – 10 March 2013 of just over £60 for the year support of Little Voice, the Golf available covers a club of up to 100 charity with a school house Bernard Magee members very nicely. There in Adis Ababa. and his team are now over 500 groups in £799* Q Plus 7 donation of £10 the Mr Bridge scheme. It is really foolish not to be Q Plus 8 donation of £16 *per person half-board sharing Q Plus 9 donation of £25 a twin-bedded room and is covered and even more One of the inserts this time inclusive of bridge fees. Single supplement £6 per night. These foolish to overpay other Send me your cheque for round is from Donald prices are based on air travel from brokers. Ring Moore the disc of your choice. Russell. Just shut your eyes Heathrow to Tunis. Flights from Stephens. ( 020 7515 5270. other UK airports are available Please make your cheques and turn the page. at a supplement. All prices are firm until the end of September 2012. Prices for seven-night stays (November only) are available on application. Pay £70 per fortnight per person extra and have a pool-facing room, tea & coffee making facilities, bath robe and a bowl of seasonal fruit.

These holidays have been organised for Mr Bridge by Tunisia First Limited, ATOL 5933, working in association with Thomas Cook Tour Operations Limited, ATOL 1179.

DETAILS & BOOKINGS ( 01483 489961

Page 7 SPRING CLEAN OTHER STAFF STAMP SALE CLUB QUIZ Please look at the address NEWS 18% OFF If your club would like to label on the back cover of Rachel Everett has returned have a Bernard Magee quiz this promotional magazine. from extended travel leave for your Christmas party If the information is correct and seems settled. Hooray. just send in your name and then that is how your club details by snail mail or membership is recorded in BOARDS & BOXES email and your quiz will be my database and BRIDGE sent to you by the first week and Bridge Weekly will be Once again I’m clearing of November. Just be sure sent to you for the next two boards and bidding boxes. Clive Goff, who makes a to include your clubs’ name years unless you tell me Those interested should regular contribution to help and your own full details, otherwise. telephone ( 01483 489961. pay for this publication is including email address Those living in the local offering a discount of 18%, and telephone number. MORE MATERNITY Surrey/Hampshire area will yes - 18%, to all readers find that their willingness who want to make up the NOT REFUNDABLE to call for what they want 50 pence that is the cost of will keep the price really a second class stamp these Just what is it about a low as the cost of postage days. He will send you, for non-refundable deposit that these days is prohibitively example, a 31p and a 19p is unclear? In the unusual expensive. stamp but you do have to event of somebody having buy them in batches of 100. to cancel for good reason, if POSTAGE we are able to sell the For Clive Goff’s unique booking, we charge a Talking about being Catrina Shackleton, service, telephone him on: modest re-booking fee. prohibitively expensive, ( pictured above, our office 020 8422 4906. postage certainly is these manager is going on [email protected] days so I am having yet HOLIDAY READ maternity leave. another purge on my GREAT STUFF Send three second class She is being replaced by mailing list and if your stamps and I will send you It’s Only a Game, by Jane Cavell, who joined us friends haven’t received a copy of Bernard Magee’s Marguerite Lihou, the six months ago to train-up their magazine this time or Quiz &Puzzle Book. for the job. I will keep you don’t next time, I will popular cartoonist, is up to date with birthdays, assume that they are either available on a bone china All good wishes, weights and all that stuff in gone away or dead and mug at £16.50, see adjacent the next issue. delete their details. mail order form. Mr Bridge

Page 8 ✄ ✄

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Page 9 From the Baron’s Archives by Dick Atkinson The Baron Calculates the Odds

y Uncle Leopold, the Sev- as East. For some reason, spades were what did your partner respond?’ enth Baron von Münchaus- never mentioned and the Brazilian ‘Ah, well, er, 5NT, showing two aces,’ en, has an encyclopaedic pair notched up 2,210 in 7♥. The 4210 I mumbled, hoping I had remembered Mknowledge of the game of bridge. On swing was worth 25 IMPs on the old the convention correctly. this occasion, I hoped to catch him scale. ‘Then I bid 7♥, as I suppose you did. out with a hand from a friendly match Alan Truscott, reporting the deal in After all, at worst it’s odds on, since from 1961 played in Brazil by, argua- the 1971 New York Times, wrote: ‘This two-thirds of the time he has the ace bly, France’s greatest ever internation- record will never be equalled, because of clubs.’ I must have looked blank. al team (Bacherich, Deruy, Ghestem, the scale was amended in the follow- ‘Come on. You make two-thirds of Trézel, and Le Dentu): ing year and the maximum is now 24.’ seven-ninths of the time, that’s exactly ‘I picked up an amazing hand the fourteen-twenty-sevenths.’ other day,’ I lied, jotting North’s cards ‘But you said ‘at worst’.’ Dealer: North. Game All. down for Uncle Leo. ‘What should I ‘Of course. When partner does not Bacherich open first in hand, both vulnerable, at have the ace of clubs, it will be with ♠ Void teams-of-four?’ RHO half of the time, when his partner ♥ A Q 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 ‘Well now, I would probably bid 6♥, will have a two-thirds chance of pick- ♦ Void but I suppose you have choices . . . your ing the wrong side-suit to lead. That’s ♣ K 4 usual Acol, I presume?’ an extra two-thirds of a half of one- ♠ K Q 10 6 5 4 3 ♠ A J 9 8 7 2 ‘No, er—turally,’ I corrected myself. third of seven-ninths, is . . . 14 over 162 ♥ Void N ♥ Void ‘I beg your pardon?’ . . . which must be . . . nearly 9%.’ W E ♦ ♦ 7 6 S 5 4 3 2 ‘Naturally. Yes, Acol.’ Unless he leads a trump, I thought, ♣ J 10 8 6 ♣ 9 7 5 ‘Not quite naturally. However, any- and started to raise my eyebrows. Deruy thing which allows an opponent to ‘Unless he leads a singleton trump,’ ♠ Void come in with 4♠ would be crass.’ So the Baron pre-empted me, ‘which ♥ K J much for the European Champions. could theoretically eat up a third of ♦ A K Q J 10 9 8 ‘But 4NT is perfect, since you’re playing that 9%, though who would really ♣ A Q 3 2 the damned ‘Direct Aces’ convention. lead a trump honour into the teeth of If partner shows no Aces (with 5♣), a strong one-suiter? So the Grand is sign off in 5♥. If he has the spade or approaching 6 to 4 on, on the bidding. Both sides were vulnerable. Bacherich diamond ace (shown by a 5♠ or 5♦ bid Perfectly sound odds.’ had dealt himself the North hand and as appropriate), bid 6♥. If he shows the ‘Surely East has a singleton trump started with a cunning Pass. After East ace of clubs (by bidding 6♣), of course, more than a third of the time?’ passed too, West overcalled Deruy’s you bid 7♥, since the trumps will break ‘Yes, yes. Four out of nine cases. But 2♣ game-forcing opening with 2♠ and kindly about 78% of the time.’ in one of those cases, your dummy has then the auction livened up. Bacherich ‘Two trumps break 1-1 52% of the the king, which gives immediate ac- came to life with 7♥, which was passed time, actually,’ I smirked. ‘You’re cess to your two aces. So tell me, what to West, who sacrificed in 7♠. Deruy thinking of three cards breaking 2-1 was the outcome?’ evidently felt that East had hesitated 78% of the time.’ I showed him the rest of the deal. over 7♥, giving West the clue, so in a ‘Kindly refrain from telling me what He nodded in satisfaction. ‘Jawohl, fit of pique (please excuse the French I am thinking. There are nine ways of as I thought: 6♥ – 7♥ is just as effec- bridge pun) he called 7NT, which West distributing K-J among three hidden tive. And in the other room?’ doubled for a penalty of 2,000. hands. Only two – K-J with LHO and I gave him Room 1: ‘Pass, Pass, 2♣, In the other room, North opened 2♣ K-J with RHO – can cost you a trick. 2♠; 7♥, Pass, Pass, 7♠; Pass, Pass, 7NT, game forcing and it was Trézel’s turn Seven winning chances out of nine Double. Minus 2000.’ to blunder. He psyched a 2♥ overcall come to 78%. QED,’ he smirked. ‘And ‘7NT?’

Page 10 The Baron Calculates continued in the hope of dropping the singleton appeared to have four diamonds, I king offside and gaining a big swing,’ I cashed all my side winners before tak- answered confidently. There would be ing the finesse. He was thrown in, the a singleton king a quarter of the time. full deal being: ‘South bid in anger, thinking that ‘And what are your chances of suc- East’s demeanour had helped West to cess? Since there are only a few cases bid 7♠,’ I replied. ‘Ridiculous and in- to consider, work out the odds. The ♠ 7 5 4 3 2 sulting too, of course.’ defender who has already played must ♥ K 7 5 ‘On the contrary.’ snarled the Baron. have K-J-9, K-9, J-9 or 9 alone. A quar- ♦ K J 3 ‘Consciously or otherwise, West has ter of the time – the third case – you ♣ A Q certainly drawn conclusions from his can cover yourself in glory by going up ♠ J ♠ K 9 partner’s demeanour. How else did with the ace, but three-quarters of the ♥ Q 9 N ♥ J 10 8 6 2 W E ♦ ♦ he place the ace of spades on that bid- time this line will fail, and one quar- 10 7 4 2 S 8 6 5 ding? His double is certifiably insane ter of the time – the second case – you ♣ J 10 9 5 4 2 ♣ 7 6 3 without that knowledge, and his spade will fail while your opponents succeed, ♠ A Q 10 8 6 lead hardly less so . . .’ burying your chances under another ♥ A 4 3 One of the Baron’s many talents is big adverse swing. Is that good enough ♦ A Q 9 the ability to write while he is snarling. for you? After all, you only need to ♣ K 8 He pushed this across to me: average plus 3 IMPs over the last thir- teen boards – quite achievable.’ ‘Well, I still guess it’s the only game ‘and had to give a ruff-and-discard.’ ♠ 7 5 4 3 2 in town.’ ‘But if the Prince knew your style, ♥ K 7 5 ‘Guess? Guess.’ why couldn’t he play the same line?’ ♦ K J 3 ‘Well, what did you do?’ ‘Because he was stupid enough to ♣ A Q ‘I finessed the ten, of course. Like -fi bid his slam in no-trumps.’ nessing the queen, this fails in three of And that put me in my place . . . N the four cases.’ W E S ‘How—’ Author’s Footnote: So what do you ‘You clearly neglected the first case, open on the hand below? ♠ A Q 10 8 6 K-J-9, where the queen finesse still ♥ A 4 3 leaves you with a loser. I can make ♦ A Q 9 with a second finesse, however. I have ♠ 9 ♣ K 8 traded the obvious K-9 / J for the less ♥ A J 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 obvious K-J-9 / Void, giving me a good ♦ Void chance of halving our IMP deficit.’ ♣ 3 ‘You obviously need a little practice in ‘But—’ calculating the odds. The play of this ‘No indeed, they are only roughly hand can be solved using the tech- equal chances – 11% for me, 13% for 4NT, of course, since the calculation nique I described a moment ago, by my opponent – but that is an accepta- is precisely the same. Over 5♣ or 5♦, enumerating all possible cases and as- ble investment when the possible gain you sign off in 5♥, and over 5♠ or 6♣, suming them to be of roughly equal is considered.’ you bid 6♥. Over 5NT, you bid 7♥, probability. See if you can do any bet- ‘And is that what happened?’ as one of his aces is probably in dia- ter this time,’ he invited ominously. He lifted the lid of the ebony humi- monds. And if partner bids 5♥? He has ‘Obviously, I was in 6♠ as South and dor, delicately carved into the image of forgotten the convention and is prob- the jack of clubs was led by West.’ a scantily-clad houri lying improbably ably showing two aces, à la Blackwood, ‘6NT would play just the same,’ I ob- on a bed of tobacco leaves. ‘No. The so you could well be right to call 6♥. served sagely. singleton knave was offside.’ On the other hand, perhaps he has re- ‘Don’t interrupt, fool. This was the ‘So you—’ membered the convention after all, has third board of the final sixteen in a ‘South in the other room was my old a heart void and is pushing for a top, match we were losing by 38 IMPs. enemy Prince Waldemar of Heck. He expecting you to pass if your bidding is How did I play the trumps after East knew my style and took exactly the based on a long solid heart suit . . . follows?’ same finesse as I did.’ All of which goes to show exactly why I couldn’t see the point at first. Ob- ‘So it—’ the Baron hates conventions: sooner or viously, the percentage play was to fi- ‘I wish you would stop doing that.’ later you will forget a convention, and nesse the queen, a 50-50 chance. But, he snapped, selecting an immense will look extremely stupid. ■ of course, that would just be playing Double Corona. ‘Before I took my fi- for a flat board. Finessing the ten was nesse, I played a few cautious explora- a drastic also-ran, a 25% extra chance tory cards in the outside suits, care- Previously published in BRIDGE 57 of failure. ‘You went up with the ace, fully watching the signals. When West

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Bridge 116 - Advert 2.indd 1 09/07/2012 10:35:44 Justin Corfield Says Lead from Length with Four Trumps

hen, as a defender, you When declarer plays in a 5-3 fit, it is find yourself blessed with essential that the hand you force to ruff ♠ K Q 6 4 long trumps, your aim is to something is the long trump hand. This ♥ 10 8 Wforce declarer to ruff something. If this can require a little care: ♦ Q 9 2 shortens his trumps to the same length as ♣ K J 8 2 yours, declarer can no longer draw your ♠ A 9 8 7 ♠ 5 trumps without removing all of his own. ♠ 8 7 6 ♥ K J 9 5 4 N ♥ A 7 3 2 W E ♥ 10 8 4 ♦ ♦ Take this example: 8 4 S K 7 6 5 ♦ J 3 2 ♣ 10 4 ♣ 9 7 6 5 ♣ K J 8 2 ♠ J 10 3 2 ♠ 9 8 7 ♠ A 4 3 2 ♠ 5 ♥ Q 6 ♥ 7 5 3 ♥ A K Q 6 5 N ♥ 9 7 3 ♦ A J 10 3 W E ♦ J 6 3 2 ♦ 4 ♦ 10 9 8 7 6 5 ♣ A Q 3 S ♣ Q J 9 ♣ 10 7 4 ♣ 9 6 5 ♠ 5 4 3 2 ♠ 6 ♠ K Q J 10 9 ♥ A K J 6 4 N ♥ 10 9 8 2 ♥ J 2 W E Once again, West leads his long suit. ♦ 5 S ♦ A 10 8 7 ♦ A K Q East takes the ♥A and returns the suit to ♣ 10 7 5 ♣ 8 6 4 2 ♣ A Q 3 West’s ♥K. West then plays a third heart, ♠ A K Q J 10 giving up a ruff and discard. Declarer is ♥ Q now going off. If he plays trumps, West ♦ K Q 9 4 This is another 4♠ contract. It looks ducks two rounds, wins the third and ♣ A K 3 mildly tempting to lead the singleton continues with hearts. diamond – if partner holds the ♥J, Here is one final 4♠ (not doubled): perhaps you can come in with the ♠A, South is in 4♠ after West has bid hearts switch to a low heart and score a ruff. and East has raised – how do you like Better is to start on hearts and force ♠ J 6 South’s chances? declarer to ruff the third round. When ♥ A K His chances are excellent, in spite of declarer ruffs, you have the same ♦ J 3 2 the 4-1 trump division, if West leads his number of trumps as he does. He now ♣ K J 8 7 5 2 singleton diamond. Although East will plays on spades and it is over to you. ♠ K 7 4 3 ♠ 5 2 N ♥ ♥ produce the ace and give West a ruff, If you win the first or second round of 10 6 W E 9 8 5 3 2 this is no use. Declarer has ten tricks, trumps, you cannot force declarer any ♦ K Q 10 5 4 S ♦ A 7 6 eleven if West underleads the hearts (in more, because dummy still has a trump. ♣ 10 6 ♣ 9 4 3 an attempt to get a second ruff). Instead, hold up your ace until the third ♠ A Q 10 9 8 Now look what happens if West leads round. At that point, you can win and ♥ Q J 7 4 hearts. South ruffs the second round and force declarer’s last trump. ♦ 9 8 draws a couple of trumps, East throwing When you hold four trumps and the ♣ A Q a club. Declarer is now a goner. opponents are in a 4-4 fit, a forcing Both declarer and West have two defence can still succeed. Look at it trumps left. If declarer draws them, this way – once declarer ruffs, he is Three rounds of diamonds forces East-West will have heart tricks to effectively in a 4-3 fit. It remains only to declarer to ruff. Then he crosses to the cash when in with the ♦A. (If declarer hold up your own trump winner until ♥A to run the ♠J. You win with the ♠K abandons trumps, East holds up in the short trump hand is out of trumps, and… diamonds, letting West ruff the second then you force him again. No, you do not take the ♠K. The aim is round, again defeating the contract.) On the next deal, the contract was 4♠ to force declarer and we cannot do that Notice that, here, West had only four doubled (matchpoints can make you do while dummy still has a trump. Duck small spades, as against declarer’s solid these things when the bidding tells you the ♠J, win the next spade and make five. These things do not matter. declarer has nothing to spare): declarer ruff another diamond. ■

Page 13

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Bridge 116 - Advert 3_Voyager.indd 1 09/07/2012 10:38:19 Heather Dhondy Says Pre-empt to the Limit First Time

re-empting to the limit first level to which you should bid. time means that you should bid If your partner opens a weak two in ♠ J 3 directly to the level that you are spades and you have four-card support, ♥ A Q 7 3 Pprepared to risk at your first go. The you should be thinking in terms of pre- ♦ K J 4 3 idea is to create the maximum pressure empting to the four-level. ♣ A 10 7 on the opponents’ bidding by depriving Considering all this, what do you bid them of space to investigate, and hoping on the following hand at game all (or that they will therefore be unable to love all)? West North East South judge the final contract correctly. 2♠ Pass 3♠ Dbl Pass 4♥ A classic example is the three- level opening bid. Take this hand, for ♠ 10 6 5 2 4♠ ? instance: ♥ J 2 N W E ♦ A Q 6 S Having described his hand, North is ♣ Q 6 5 2 content to pass 4♠ and leave the final ♠ K Q J 8 6 5 2 decision to his partner. However, if West ♥ J 2 had jumped to 4♠ over 2♠, North might ♦ 6 West North East South fail to double or South might take it out ♣ 10 6 5 2♠ Pass into 5♥. ? Here is the full deal:

This hand is ideal for a 3♠ opening bid, There are conflicting indicators. whatever the vulnerability. What makes Bidding to the level of the fit will tell ♠ J 3 it so suitable? you to go directly to 4♠. Then again, ♥ A Q 7 3 Various factors can make your hand your defensive values in diamonds are ♦ K J 4 3 more or less suitable for pre-empting. a worry, as is your relatively balanced ♣ A 10 7 Vulnerability is key since it determines hand and your poor trumps. ♠ 10 6 5 2 ♠ K Q 9 8 7 4 how many down your side is able to go Now think about the vulnerability. If ♥ J 2 N ♥ K 4 ♦ A Q 6 W E ♦ 7 5 whilst still showing a profit over what you were at favourable (only the other S the opponents can make. side vulnerable), this would be a clear- ♣ Q 6 5 2 ♣ J 9 3 Points in your long suit indicate a good cut bid of 4♠, whereas at unfavourable ♠ A hand for pre-empting; points in your (only your side vulnerable), it would be ♥ 10 9 8 6 5 short suits are good defensive values. The foolish because of the downsides referred ♦ 10 9 8 2 more defence you have, the less suitable to above. At equal vulnerability, it is very ♣ K 8 4 you are for pre-empting since the close – but it seems just worth a bid of 4♠. opponents may not be able to make their Whatever you decide you are worth on contract. With this hand, you probably this hand, the most important thing is to Although North-South can make 4♥, have no defence at all, unless the second make your decision on the first round. If 5♥ goes down with a trick in three suits round of spades is cashing. you hedge your bets with a bid of 3♠ and to lose. If West raises directly to 4♠, 5♥ Doubletons are poor holdings for pre- then bid 4♠ over the opponent’s 4♥, you down one may well be the result. empting; singletons are better. give them too much room to exchange If, though, you raise to 3♠ and later Much the same rules apply when you information. With an extra round of bid 4♠, the opponents will surely just have a big fit for your partner’s opening bidding available to them, they are likely stop and double you, collecting 500. bid and few values. to get the final decision right (whether Fit is important and bidding to the that is to double you or bid a level higher) Summary level of the fit is a good indicator of much more often than if you had bid 4♠ how high to pre-empt. Simply take the directly. Here is an example of a hand Decide how far you are prepared to pre- number of trumps you have between that North might hold on the auction so empt using the indicators referred to your two hands. This will tell you the far (game all): above and bid it at your first turn. ■

Page 15

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Bridge 116 - Advert 3_Discovery.indd 1 09/07/2012 17:00:48 David Stevenson answers your questions on Laws and Ethics Must the Opponents Bid Like You Do?

South opened rules as to what you can no-trump, people will open fairest solution is to give the 2♣ (artificial play, they are very broad 1NT with 11 points and with ill team -1.5 IMPs per board, Qgame force) with and much is legal. 20 points. It is just normal though few would argue with 21 points. The books rubber bridge tactics. 0 IMPs per board for them, we have seem to show ♣♦♥♠ still giving their opponents that you should hold a ♣♦♥♠ +1.5 IMPs per board. minimum of 23 points. Playing rubber When challenged, South bridge with both I am trying to ♣♦♥♠ remarked that her Qsides vulnerable score our annual opening was permis- and 60 below to the op- Qteams of four I led to the first sible. Was she correct? ponents, my opponent event over two weeks. trick and won Derek Hirst, Halifax opened 2♥ on this: We had seven teams Qit; declarer won (similar from entered but one had to the second trick but Bob Matthews, Salisbury). leave due to illness, thus put his card our way ♠ A K Q not completing their round. Dummy tried to It does not matter ♥ A Q 9 4 3 2 final match. Do the laws draw his attention to what the books say. ♦ 7 6 5 cover this situation? the mistake, which we A They are merely ♣ 6 Geoff Tremlett, Llanelli. were happy to allow. advising on how they think What does the you ought to play the game. According to the law now say? It is legal to play an artificial We had all agreed to laws, you should Dan Crofts, 2♣ opening on any balanced play weak twos in the A score the unplayed Edgbaston, Birmingham. hand with at least 16 points, majors (six cards and boards as Average Minus to so if South wishes to play her 5-10 points). The bid the team containing the ill It is a change. Now opening as 21+, it is certainly misled our side; we player, -3 IMPs per board, anyone may point legal. In fact, I play it as 21+ finished three down and Average Plus to their op- A out a card has been with my favourite partner. doubled in 4♣. ponents, +3 IMPs per board. put down the wrong way One frequently recurring Dr Charles Godden, People always think this – but only until the lead to problem is that players learn Guildford, Surrey. is unfair since the player the next trick is made. After a method of bidding and could not help it; I do not that, declarer may do so but get upset when opponents It is perfectly normal suppose anyone would nobody else. do not follow it. Actually, bridge to stretch argue with a more generous there are many ways to bid; A opening bids at approach, for example giving the way a player has learnt rubber bridge when hold- Average to the team with is not the only way. Players ing a part score and you the ill player, i.e. 0 IMPs. David Stevenson answers all queries based on the facts get upset over six-card pre- should expect it. Many I prefer the approach in supplied by the letter writer. empts at the three level, very people would open 2♥ with the EBU White Book, which Neither Mr Bridge nor ♥ wide range opening 1NT that hand, knowing that 2 has force in Wales. This says David Stevenson has any way with a part score, overcalls would be enough for game. when a full match cannot be of knowing whether those on two points and so on. Similarly, with a 60 part played you give Averages facts are correct or complete. While there are certain score, despite playing a weak on half the boards. So the

Page 17 Ask David continued have alerted my 2♦ and South change his last pass dummy hand is on the we called the director. if he wished to because table; can you tell me He said that we should of the misinformation (the whether this is legal? play the board and failure to alert). This might Name and address supplied. Is West’s call him back if we have solved everything bidding legal thought that North/ because South might have If a board is stopped Qhere, playing South suffered damage. bid something. Second, during the play transfers? his ruling of average was A that is not duplicate illegal. The director has a bridge. No law permits it. West North East South ♠ A J 7 duty either to decide there is Incidentally, I regret 1NT Pass 2♥ Pass ♥ 8 5 no infraction or no damage, to inform everyone who 2NT ♦ A J 7 6 5 or to adjust to a real score, asked about timers that ♣ K J 7 or, more commonly, to Streamline Technologies South was expecting ♠ K 10 4 2 ♠ 9 8 a group of possible real is no longer in business. I

West to rebid 2♠. ♥ A J 9 6 2 N ♥ K 4 3 scores with a percentage believe Per Jannersten in Niranjan Doshi by email. ♦ 4 3 W E ♦ K 10 2 weighting for each. Sweden makes timers. S ♣ 8 2 ♣ Q 10 9 6 3 I would have asked North One thing that ♠ Q 6 5 3 what his double meant ♣♦♥♠ players do not ♥ Q 10 7 and what he would have A always appreciate is ♦ Q 9 8 done if correctly informed. I led a low that different people play in ♣ A 5 4 I would have asked South club. Dummy different ways. Just because why he passed the double. I Qfollowed low, you learnt one way, this does would have asked a couple my partner played not mean other people play West North East South of better players what they the ace and declarer that way, or have to do so. 1NT Pass Pass would have done, giving the ace of diamonds Once your partner opens 2♦* Pass 2♥ Pass them the correct information, (spades were trumps). 1NT, you may agree with Pass Dble End not telling them what was Almost as soon as your partner to bid in any *not alerted (both majors) wrong. Then I would have he had played the ace way you want. You can make let the score stand or of diamonds, declarer up a set of responses. So East proceeded to worked out an adjustment. apologised and said that breaking the transfer is legal. make 8 tricks and While I cannot be sure he played the wrong Many players break a score of 670. without asking the questions, card – he had meant to transfers on some hands; in We called the director I might let the score stand: play a low club. He then fact, in a tournament, most, if back and settled for South’s pass looks ill-judged. withdrew the diamond not all, do: it is normal. What an average score. I might have concluded ace and played his low is the point? It helps partner What should the that North would double club. The director did to know you have very good ruling have been? 2♦ (rather than 2♥). I might not know what to do. support for his suit and acts John Williams, Montrose. then have considered a Does your comment pre-emptively as well. range of contracts, including that declarer, having You did the right 2♥, 2♥ doubled, 2NT placed a card on the ♣♦♥♠ thing in advising and 3♦ depending upon table, may not change it, A opponents before South’s action over 2♥. apply in this situation? Before South the lead and calling the Most likely, I would give a Stephen Hanslip, Wakefield. led, I advised director. I cannot say the weighted adjustment of these Qthe opponents same for the director. possibilities, something like: No, it is a different that my partner should First, he should have let situation entirely. 25% of NS +110 A Declarer may not + 25% of NS -50 change a card because he + 25% of NS -110 accidentally played the wrong DUPLICATE BRIDGE + 25% of NS -670 one. If, for example, he had no clubs, the diamond ace RULES SIMPLIFIED ♣♦♥♠ would stand, however stupid (otherwise known as the Yellow Book) and unintended such a card Our club has a was. However, there is a only by John Rumbelow and ruling that when different law stating that you 95 revised by David Stevenson £5 Qthe buzzer goes, must correct a revoke that has 3 minutes before the end yet to become established. Available from Mr Bridge ( 01483 489961 of a round, you cannot The director should have read play the deal unless the this law out and followed it.

Page 18 Ask David continued This benefits the pairs director what to do with a next non-qualifier. who played the board board due for play but not In a Swiss Teams, it is but achieved less than actually played; since it usually acceptable to retire average, which does includes no mention of Not before the end. The team After his second not seem fair. Where Played, any director who concerned gets no points; the pass and before can I find the regulation gives Not Played in such director will re-arrange it so QSouth calls, preventing the use of circumstances is deliberately the competition is unaffected. East leads the ♠A. How a ‘Not Played’ score flouting the laws of the game. It is perfectly normal for any does the director rule? in this situation? pairs’ competition to have a Gerald Hignett by email ♣♦♥♠ half-table, so if a pair drops West North East South (similar from Nicholas out before the start of an 3♣ Pass 3♥ Beswick, Brynmawr). We often use event that was meant to be a Pass 4♣ Pass the Howell certain number of full tables, You are wrong to Qmovement. If you you score normally as though How would his ruling think that it is unfair are playing North at one it had a half table. By using change if South, thinking A on other players to table and you are due percentages for the scores, he was dummy, laid award an average: doing so to play E/W at the next, it does not matter if some down three club cards is the correct and fair thing does North become East pairs play more than others. before North called to do. When you get a top or West? Does it matter? for the director? on a board, you do so by Iain Campbell, ♣♦♥♠ Peter Balbi by email. beating a certain number Barrhead, Glasgow. of pairs. Suppose there are At a club Once someone plays ten pairs so a top is 18. If It does not matter duplicate, a card during the one table is unable to play – and there is no Qdeclarer A auction, it stays on it, a pair who have the top A general rule. ‘revoked’ at trick twelve the table for the rest of the score have beaten only eight Of course, a club could (ruffing my boss ♦K auction, though knowledge other pairs, not nine and make a rule if it wished. and then playing the of that card is unauthorised might not have scored a top I have never known a ♦J). The ♦A-Q and all to partner. In the case that if it had been played the club that bothered. the other trumps had a player has attempted to ninth time. Some fair way of already gone. I called lead it, partner must pass working it out to allow for ♣♦♥♠ the director, who ordered at his next turn to call: West this is thus necessary. This us to replay tricks 12 & will thus have to pass. If the is to give an average and to If a pair drops 13 without the revoke. As player becomes a defender, work the scores out from that. out of a duplicate a result, each side won it will be a penalty card. By giving Average, Average Qcompetition, one trick. If we had not Since he led an honour, it will Plus or Average Minus, you leaving a half table, challenged the revoke, be a major penalty card. allow for the possibilities of is there a formula to declarer would have If there are two or more what would happen if the calculate scoring? won both tricks. To my cards (as would be the case slow table played the board, Mary McLean, Yorkshire. surprise, the director did with South’s three clubs) tempered with allowing not award any penalty partner must pass at his next for whoever is at fault. There are many trick, explaining that turn to call, so North will now Note that it is easier to different approaches this was because the have to pass. If the player get a big score over fewer A dependent on revoke occurred at trick becomes a defender, they will boards. If a pair has a good what happened. 12. Was this correct? be penalty cards. Since there evening and the director If a player falls ill during Raymond Anne by email. was more than one card, they gives Not Played illegally a club evening and leaves will be major penalty cards. for unplayed boards, it is with six boards unplayed, The director’s ruling Note that these are simple to that pair’s advantage you score those six boards was correct, though rulings: all the director has to to play slowly to miss as as Average Minus to the A I am surprised that do is read from his law book. many boards as possible. pair concerned, Average he did not take the trouble Furthermore, many people Plus to their opponents. to show you in the law book ♣♦♥♠ over many years have helped If an event is a qualifying since you were obviously to formulate the laws, so event and a pair drops doubtful. Revokes at trick You have assuming the lawmakers out before the next twelve never result in penalty advised that the have gone wrong is not an round, you promote the tricks. ■ Qdirector should assumption to make lightly. score a timed out Finally, it is not a matter E-mail your questions on bridge laws to: unplayed board as a of regulation but a matter [email protected] form of average. of law. Law 12C2 tells the

Page 19 PROGRAMME This is the format for 2012-2013 BRIDGE EVENTS all Bernard Magee hosted events. with Bernard Magee FRIDAY 1500 Mr Bridge DECember 2012 Welcome Desk open 28 – 30 Chatsworth Hotel Afternoon tea/coffee £245 Better Defence 1745 to 1830 Welcome drinks reception 1830 to 2000 DINNER 2015 BRIDGE 1 Chatsworth Hotel DUPLICATE PAIRS Worthing BN11 3DU

SATURDAY SEPTEMber 2012 JUNE 2013 0800 to 0930 21 – 23 Horsley Management Centre 7 –9 The Olde Barn Hotel BREAKFAST Blunsdon House Hotel 1000 to 1230 £245 Game Tries Swindon SN26 7AS £245 Endplay and Avoidance SEMINAR & October 2012 14 – 16 Chatsworth Hotel SUPERVISED PLAY £245 Sacrificing of SET HANDS 5 – 7 The Olde Barn Hotel MARCH 2013 (tea & coffee at 1100) £245 Suit Establishment 22-24 Queensferry Hotel JULY 2013 1230 to 1330 £245 Leads and Defence COLD BUFFET 12 – 14 Blunsdon House Hotel 5 – 7 Blunsdon House Hotel LUNCH £245 Landy Defence to 1NT APRIL 2013 £245 Signals and Discards 1400 to 1645 19 – 21 Chatsworth Hotel 5 – 7 Blunsdon House Hotel 12 – 14 Cheltenham Regency BRIDGE 2 £245 Signals and Discards TEAMS of FOUR £245 Losing Trick Count £245 Thinking Defence or FURTHER 26 – 28 Cheltenham Regency October 2013 SUPERVISED PLAY £245 Doubles of SET HANDS 11 – 13 Blunsdon House Hotel 1815 to 2000 November 2012 £245 Splinters and Cue Bids DINNER 2 – 4 Blunsdon House Hotel 18 – 20 Chatsworth Hotel 2015 BRIDGE 3 £245 Squeezes £245 Playing & Defending 1NT DUPLICATE PAIRS 9 – 11 Inn on the Prom 25 – 27 Queensferry Hotel SUNDAY £245 Declarer Play £245 Finding Slams 0800 to 0930 BREAKFAST Cheltenham Regency Hotel Cheltenham GL51 0ST 1000 to 1230 SEMINAR & SUPERVISED PLAY 12 – 14 Chatsworth Hotel of SET HANDS (tea & coffee at 1100) £245 Declarer Play 1230 to 1400 19 – 21 Inn on the Prom CARVERY LUNCH £245 Thinking Defence 1400 to 1645 BRIDGE 4 The Olde Barn Hotel 26 –28 The Olde Barn Hotel FURTHER Marston, Lincs NG32 2HT £245 Splinters and Cue Bids SUPERVISED PLAY of SET HANDS or DUPLICATE PAIRS Full Board – No Single Supplement. See booking form on page 40.

Page 20 Bernard Magee’s 2012-2013 BRIDGE EVENTS Bidding Quiz Bridge Tie You are West in the auctions below, playing £15 with Bernard Magee ‘Standard Acol’ with a weak no-trump (12-14 including points) and four-card majors. (Answers overleaf.) postage & packing 1. Dealer North. N/S Vul. ♠ J 10 5 From ♥ A 6 3 2 N ♦ K 5 3 W E S Mr Bridge ♣ Q 9 8 Inn on the Prom St Annes-on-Sea FY8 1LU ( 01483 West North East South 489961 JUNE 2013 Pass 1NT Pass ? 7 –9 The Olde Barn Hotel www.mrbridge.co.uk £245 Endplay and Avoidance 14 – 16 Chatsworth Hotel 2. Dealer East. Love All. Order Form ♠ K Q 3 on page 9 £245 Sacrificing ♥ Q 7 6 N W E ♦ Q 10 9 3 JULY 2013 S ♣ Q 7 4 5 – 7 Blunsdon House Hotel £245 Signals and Discards West North East South 12 – 14 Cheltenham Regency 2♣1 Pass Hand-crafted £245 Thinking Defence ? 1Acol, strong and artificial October 2013 French Bridge Tables We have a range of beautifully-made folding wooden bridge 11 – 13 Blunsdon House Hotel tables which we are offering at a special summer sale price. £245 Splinters and Cue Bids These have been made especially for us in a small factory in France where the master carpenter selects the finest French 3. Dealer East. Game All. 18 – 20 Chatsworth Hotel NEW beech to make his tables which are presented in a mahogany SEMINAR ♠ Q J 4 3 finish. The legs fold flat utilising a special registered hinge £245 Playing & Defending 1NT ♥ 3 2 N W E mechanism that makes the tables easy to set up and very stable. ♦ 7 6 4 25 – 27 Queensferry Hotel S Orleans model now £124 – Monaco (shown) now just £170 £245 Finding Slams ♣ Q 10 8 6

West North East South 2NT Pass ? SAVE

4. Dealer East. Love All. £25 ♠ A 9 6 4 ♥ 5 N ♦ A 9 5 4 W E S Queensferry Hotel ♣ A 7 5 3 North Queensferry KY11 1HP For a really beautiful table ( 01483 750611 West North East South www.bridge-tables.co.uk 3♥ Pass Full Board – No Single Supplement. See booking form on page 40. S R Designs, 1 Hook Hill Park, Woking, GU22 0PX ?

Page 21 Answers to Bernard Magee’s Bidding Quiz on page 21

West North East South did add anything for intermediates, you 1. Dealer East. Game All. 2♣1 Pass would take it off again for your ugly 4333 ♠ Q J 4 3 ♠ A K 8 6 ? 1 Acol, strong and artificial shape. No, it is certainly right to pass. ♥ 3 2 N ♥ A Q 5 In no-trumps the defence start with W E ♦ 7 6 4 S ♦ 8 3 2NT. What are the responses to the diamonds; partner wins and knocks out ♣ Q 10 8 6 ♣ A K 9 7 artificial 2♣? 2♦ is weak while all other the ♠A; back comes another diamond. bids are natural and positive. There are seven tricks but no more: one You are not weak and have no particu- of the defenders started with five dia- West North East South lar suit to mention, so no-trumps is the monds, giving them six tricks – the ♠A, 2NT Pass best call, but at what level: 2NT or 3NT? the ♣A-K and three diamonds. ? Some might plump for 3NT because As you can see, it is lucky you did not 2NT might just show 8-10 points – the try 2NT or 2♣ (Stayman). Partner would 3♣. 2NT shows 20-22 points but leaves snag is that uses up too much space. Re- probably have left 2NT, even that would you no room to invite game; with five member partner might have a distribu- have been too high. points, you just have to go for it. With tional hand when he opens 2♣ and he this hand, you would also like to explore might want to tell you about it. East will which game. rebid 3♣ over 2NT, giving you plenty of 4. Dealer East. Love All. The solution is to bid Stayman. It is space to explore on your way to 6♣. ♠ A 9 6 4 ♠ 7 2 the same as Stayman at the 2-level, just ♥ 5 N ♥ K J 10 8 7 6 4 W E one level higher. Yes, this is a natural ♦ A 9 5 4 S ♦ 3 extension of Acol, although some play 3. Dealer North. N/S Game. ♣ A 7 5 3 ♣ K 9 2 Baron or five-card Stayman (again using ♠ J 10 5 ♠ K Q 7 6 the 3♣ bid) – they all enable you to find ♥ A 6 3 2 N ♥ K 5 4 W E the 4-4 spade fit. ♦ K 5 3 ♦ A 6 West North East South S 3♣ asks opener whether he has a four- ♣ Q 9 8 ♣ J 4 3 2 3♥ Pass card major; here your partner would bid ? 3♠, which you would raise to 4♠. This would make easily against West North East South Pass. Is this a slightly easier problem? reasonable breaks, whilst 3NT would fall Pass 1NT Pass Partner has made a weak pre-emptive foul of a diamond lead unless the suit ? bid; all you have for him are three aces. divides 4-4. With no great fit, you have no reason to Pass. 1NT shows 12-14 points and you to alter the contract. Pre-empts are de- hold 10 points. That makes a maximum signed to obstruct the opponents’ bid- of 24 points – not enough for game. You ding, every so often they affect your own 2. Dealer East. Love All. have no five-card suit, so a no-trump side; the best solution is simply to accept ♠ K Q 3 ♠ A contract is likely to be best. that the gains have to be tempered by a ♥ Q 7 6 N ♥ A K 5 4 Is there anything else to consider? few losses. Here you suffer no adverse W E ♦ Q 10 9 3 S ♦ 7 Well, you have one ten and one nine, affect – 3♥ is the perfect resting place, ♣ Q 7 4 ♣ A K J 10 9 8 6 which is merely average, so you should while 4♥ would need a lot of luck to not add on anything for that. Even if you come home. ■

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Page 22 Mr Bridge DEFENCE RUBBER / CHICAGO QUIZ by Julian Pottage (Answers overleaf)

ou are West in the defensive positions below. It is your Yturn to play. Both sides are using Acol with a 12-14 1NT.

1. ♠ J 6 3. ♠ J 6 ♥ J 8 4 3 ♥ J 8 ♦ Q J ♦ A 9 6 Ardington Hotel, Worthing BN11 3DZ ♣ K Q J 8 4 ♣ Q J 10 9 6 4 ♠ 8 5 ♠ Q 10 9 8 5 4 ♥ K 9 6 N ♥ 6 N 3-5 August 2012 ♦ K 10 7 6 4 W E ♦ K J 7 W E S hosted by Sheila Rogers ♣ A 9 5 ♣ A K 5 S 23-25 November 2012 West North East South West North East South hosted by Ann Pearson 1♠ 1♥ Pass 2♣ Pass 2NT 1♠ 2♣ Pass 2NT Pass 3NT End Pass 3NT End

You lead the ♦6 – ♦Q, You lead the ♠10, won ♦2 and ♦5. Dummy leads by the ♠J. Dummy the ♣K – East plays the leads the ♣Q – ♣7 from ♣7. How do you defend? East, ♣2 from South. What do you do?

2. ♠ A 8 6 ♥ A J 8 4. ♠ A K 8 6 ♦ A K Q 9 ♥ J 8 ♣ J 8 4 ♦ Q J Blunsdon House Hotel, Swindon SN26 7AS ♠ K 10 5 4 2 ♣ K Q J 10 4 ♥ K 10 6 N ♠ 10 9 5 hosted by Diana Holland ♦ 7 6 W E ♥ A 9 6 4 2 N ♣ A 9 5 S ♦ 6 4 W E S ♣ 9 6 5 31 August – 2 September 2012

West North East South 1♦ Pass 1NT West North East South Please note there are no seminars Pass 3NT End 1♣ 1♦ 1♥ or set hands at these events. Pass 1♠ Pass 1NT You lead the ♠4 to the ♠J Pass 3NT End and ♠Q. Declarer plays a £199 Full-board low club to the ♣J (♣5 You lead the ♦6 – ♦Q, ♦8 from you, ♣2 from East) and ♦5. Dummy leads the No Single Supplement and a club back to the ♣K ♥J; East plays the ♥5 and (♣7 from East). How do South the ♥3. How do you you defend? defend? Please see booking form on page 40.

Page 23 Answers to Julian Pottage’s Defence Quiz on page 23

You lead the ♠4 to the ♠J and ♠Q. The good news is that you have two club 1. ♠ J 6 Declarer plays a low club to the ♣J (♣5 stoppers. ♥ J 8 4 3 from you, ♣2 from East) and a club back If declarer has only two clubs (and ♦ Q J to the ♣K (♣7 from East). How do you East’s seven suggests this is the case) ♣ K Q J 8 4 defend? and the jack of hearts is not a winner, ♠ 8 5 ♠ Q 10 7 4 2 When declarer has a weaker hand you can shut out the clubs. To do so, you ♥ K 9 6 N ♥ Q 10 2 than dummy or is short of entries for must hold up on the first round. You win W E ♦ ♦ K 10 7 6 4 S 8 3 2 some other reason, a hold up can also the second round perforce and continue ♣ A 9 5 ♣ 7 6 be useful. Here, you know that partner spades. With no clubs left in hand, ♠ A K 9 3 has nothing useful in clubs (the jack declarer cannot set up the suit without ♥ A 7 5 would not have won otherwise) and you using dummy’s vital ace of diamonds ♦ A 9 5 can see that dummy has a third club. entry. ♣ 10 3 2 You should hold up the ace until the third round. After taking it, you will continue with the king (or ten) of spades to knock West North East South out the ace. 4. ♠ A K 8 6 1♠ This way you hold declarer to eight ♥ J 8 Pass 2♣ Pass 2NT tricks by way of two spades, one heart, ♦ Q J Pass 3NT End three diamonds and two clubs. True, if ♣ K Q J 10 4 declarer has the jack of diamonds, this ♠ 10 9 5 ♠ Q J 2 You lead the ♦6 – ♦Q, ♦2 and ♦5. will be both an extra winner and an entry ♥ A 9 6 4 2 N ♥ 5 W E ♣ ♣ ♦ ♦ Dummy leads the K – East plays the 7. to the long club, though in that case your 6 4 S K 10 8 7 3 2 How do you defend? side will make only three tricks whatever ♣ 9 6 5 ♣ A 7 3 A common technique for declarer is the you do. ♠ 7 4 3 hold up play. It can prove just as useful ♥ K Q 10 7 3 for the defenders. By saving your ace of ♦ A 9 5 clubs until declarer has run out of clubs, ♣ 8 2 you may be able to shut out the suit. The 3. ♠ J 6 seven looks like the start of a high-low to ♥ J 8 show a doubleton, so you hold up until ♦ A 9 6 West North East South the third round. ♣ Q J 10 9 6 4 1♣ 1♦ 1♥ ♠ Q 10 9 8 5 4 ♠ 7 2 Pass 1♠ Pass 1NT ♥ 6 N ♥ Q 10 9 5 2 Pass 3NT End W E ♦ ♦ K J 7 S 10 8 3 2 2. ♠ A 8 6 ♣ A K 5 ♣ 7 3 You lead the ♦6– ♦Q, ♦8 and ♦5. Dummy ♥ A J 8 ♠ A K 3 leads the ♥J; East plays the ♥5 and South ♦ A K Q 9 ♥ A K 7 4 3 the ♥3. How do you defend? ♣ J 8 4 ♦ Q 5 4 You must take care not to get into the ♠ K 10 5 4 2 ♠ J 7 ♣ 8 2 habit of holding up every ace you hold ♥ K 10 6 N ♥ Q 9 3 2 when you are defending a no-trump W E ♦ ♦ 7 6 S J 8 3 2 contract. ♣ A 9 5 ♣ 7 6 2 West North East South Here, if you duck the first heart, ♠ Q 9 3 1♥ declarer switches to clubs and makes ♥ 7 5 4 1♠ 2♣ Pass 2NT nine tricks by way of two spades, a heart, ♦ 10 5 4 Pass 3NT End two diamonds and four clubs. ♣ K Q 10 3 With the strong clubs and other You lead the ♠10, won by the ♠J. Dummy goodies in dummy, this turn of events is leads the ♣Q – ♣7 from East, ♣2 from predictable. West North East South South. What do you do? You should win the first heart and 1♦ Pass 1NT The bad news this time is that dummy continue diamonds. Partner can then run Pass 3NT End has a sure entry in the ace of diamonds. the suit when in with the ace of clubs. ■

Page 24 Bernard Magee’s Tips DECLARER for Better Bridge PLAY 65 invaluable tips in 160 pages Bidding Tips 33 A low lead usually promises 1 Always consider bidding length and an honour spades if you can 34 When declaring 1NT, QUIZ 2 Bid more aggressively try to be patient when non-vulnerable 35 Duck an early round when 3 Always double when the you are short of entries by David Huggett opponents steal your deal 36 Lead up to your 4 A takeout double shows two-honour holding (Answers overleaf) shortage in the suit doubled 37 Do not always assume 5 ‘Borrow’ a king a suit will break well ou are South as declarer playing teams or rubber bridge. to keep the auction open 38 Drop a high card to put off the defence In each case, what is your play strategy? 6 After a penalty double, Y don’t let the opponents escape 39 Play your highest card to tempt 7 Halve the value of a singleton a defender to cover honour when opening 40 Draw trumps first unless you 8 Only add length-points for a have a good reason not to 1. ♠ K 7 2 3. ♠ A Q 10 suit that might be useful 41 Do not waste your trumps 9 Isolated honours are bad 42 Consider leaving a lone defen- ♥ Q 5 4 ♥ A 7 4 2 except in partner’s suit sive trump winner out ♦ A 8 3 2 ♦ K 6 2 10 Use the jump shift sparingly Defence Tips ♣ Q 9 6 ♣ K 9 4 11 Consider passing and letting partner decide 43 Keep four-card suits intact whenever possible N N 12 You need two top honours for a second-seat pre-empt 44 Give count on declarer’s leads W E W E 45 Keep the right cards S S 13 Put the brakes on if you have a misfit rather than signal 14 Strong and long minors work 46 Take your time ♠ A Q J 10 5 ♠ K J 9 7 3 well in no-trumps when dummy is put down 47 High cards are for killing ♥ A K 6 2 ♥ 6 15 One stop in the opponents’ suit can be enough for no-trumps other high cards ♦ 7 4 ♦ A Q 7 3 16 Keep your two-level 48 Do not waste ♣ 8 3 ♣ A Q 2 responses up to strength intermediate cards 17 Use your normal methods in 49 Pick two key suits to concen- response to a 1NT overcall trate on during the play 18 Don’t overcall just because 50 If in doubt, cover an honour You are declarer in 4♠ and You are declarer in 7♠ and you have opening points with an honour 51 If a lead is from two honours, it West leads the ♦K. How West leads the ♠8. How do 19 Overcalls can be quite weak, so be prudent when responding is best not to cover do you plan the play? you plan the play? 20 Weak overcalls must be based 52 Keep your honour to kill on strong suits dummy’s honour 21 6NT requires 33 points 53 Try to show partner not 4 aces and 4 kings your solid honour sequences 22 Raise immediately, if weak 54 Lead the normal card when with four-card support leading partner’s suit 55 Never underlead an ace at trick ♠ ♠ 23 In a competitive auction, 2. 6 4 2 4. 8 6 5 show support immediately one in a suit contract ♥ A 6 ♥ A 6 2 24 Bid to the level of your fit 56 Be wary of leading from four cards to only one honour ♦ 9 6 2 ♦ K 10 6 quickly with weak hands 25 With strength and support, 57 Lead a higher card from ♣ ♣ K Q 10 5 4 A J 9 2 use the opponents’ bid suit a suit without an honour 58 Lead through ‘beatable’ N N strength and up to weakness Declarer-play Tips 59 Cash your winners before try- W E W E 26 When your contract depends S S ing for a trump promotion on a finesse, think ‘endplay’ 60 Be patient when defending 27 Consider what a defender 1NT ♠ A J 9 ♠ K 4 might be thinking about 61 Trump leads can be safe ♥ K 5 ♥ K 8 5 28 Always take your time throughout the play at trick one ♦ Q J 10 7 3 ♦ A Q J 4 29 Establish extra tricks before General Tips ♣ A J 3 ♣ K 10 5 3 cashing your winners 62 Do not put important cards 30 Use your opponents’ at either end of your hand bidding to your advantage 63 Avoid being declarer when 31 Avoid the ‘baddie’ you are dummy You are declarer in 3NT You are declarer in 3NT gaining the lead 64 Before you lead, ask for a and West leads the ♥Q. and West leads the ♥4. 32 Use the Rule of Seven when review of the auction holding up in no-trumps 65 Enjoy the Game! How do you plan the play? How do you plan the play?

£14 including postage and packing from Mr Bridge, Ryden Grange, Knaphill, Surrey GU21 2TH. ( 01483 489961

Page 25 Answers to David Huggett’s Play Quiz on page 25

You are declarer in 3NT and West leads clever strategy goes by the name of a 1. ♠ K 7 2 the ♥Q. How do you plan the play? dummy reversal and demands merely ♥ Q 5 4 That heart lead has done you no good that trumps break 3-2. If they do not, you ♦ A 8 3 2 at all and, with only eight tricks on top, will find out at the fourth trick and can ♣ Q 9 6 you are struggling to find the ninth. At fall back on a similar line to problem 1. ♠ 9 6 ♠ 8 4 3 first sight, it looks as though diamonds With the last trump still in dummy, you ♥ 10 8 N ♥ J 9 7 3 will furnish more than enough tricks would play three rounds of diamonds, W E ♦ ♦ K Q J 9 5 S 10 6 once you have dislodged the ace and the hoping either that the suit breaks 3-3 or ♣ A 10 7 4 ♣ K J 5 2 king. Of course, that is faulty reasoning that the defender with long diamonds ♠ A Q J 10 5 because, by then, the defenders will also has the two outstanding trumps. In ♥ A K 6 2 make all their hearts. No, that extra trick the latter case, you would be able to ruff ♦ 7 4 must come from spades. The best bet is the fourth round of diamonds in dummy. ♣ 8 3 to lead a low spade from dummy after winning the ace of hearts and insert the nine if East plays low. Hopefully the nine You are declarer in 4♠ and West leads will draw the king or the queen and next 4. ♠ 8 6 5 the ♦K. How do you plan the play? time you aim to take a finesse against the ♥ A 6 2 You have nine tricks on top and, remaining honour. ♦ K 10 6 barring a miracle in the club suit, it looks ♣ A J 9 2 as though the extra trick will have to ♠ A J 9 ♠ Q 10 7 3 2 come from hearts. ♥ J 9 7 4 3 N ♥ Q 10 W E A simple plan would be to draw trumps 3. ♠ A Q 10 ♦ 8 7 3 S ♦ 9 5 2 and hope for an even split in hearts; you ♥ A 7 4 2 ♣ 7 6 ♣ Q 8 4 can do better than that. Draw just two ♦ K 6 2 ♠ K 4 rounds of trumps and then play the top ♣ K 9 4 ♥ K 8 5 hearts ending in hand. ♠ 8 6 ♠ 5 4 2 ♦ A Q J 4 If both defenders follow, you can then ♥ J 9 8 3 N ♥ K Q 10 5 ♣ K 10 5 3 W E ♦ ♦ draw the remaining trump; occasionally J 9 8 4 S 10 5 – as here – the hand with only two hearts ♣ 8 7 3 ♣ J 10 6 5 will only have two trumps as well, so ♠ K J 9 7 3 You are declarer in 3NT and West leads you can go on to ruff the last heart in ♥ 6 the ♥4. How do you plan the play? dummy. ♦ A Q 7 3 You are looking for just one extra trick, ♣ A Q 2 which clearly the club suit can provide no matter which defender you play for the queen. However, when things look so 2. ♠ 6 4 2 You are declarer in 7♠ and West leads clear-cut, it is best to look for any possi- ♥ A 6 the ♠8. How do you plan the play? ble hidden danger – and that is the case ♦ 9 6 2 On first inspection, it might seem that here. Suppose you win the heart in hand, ♣ K Q 10 5 4 you need the diamonds to break 3-3 cash the king of clubs and take a finesse ♠ K 8 3 ♠ Q 10 7 5 for this contract to succeed – that is not against the queen. If it loses – as it would ♥ Q J 10 7 4 N ♥ 9 8 3 2 the case. Win the trump in dummy, cash here – a mean East might play a spade W E ♦ ♦ A 8 S K 5 4 the ace of hearts and ruff a heart. Enter and not another heart. Then, with the ♣ 9 7 2 ♣ 8 6 dummy with a trump and ruff another ace wrong, you would lose a bushel of ♠ A J 9 heart and now lead a diamond to the tricks in that suit. Instead, win the heart ♥ K 5 king to ruff yet another heart. Now enter in dummy, cash the ace of clubs and con- ♦ Q J 10 7 3 dummy yet again, this time with a club, tinue by playing a club to the ten. Even if ♣ A J 3 draw the last trump throwing the low it should lose, your king of spades is safe diamond from hand and claim. This from attack. ■

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Page 26 Andrew Kambites’ Tutorial Bridge Breaks Lead Quiz You are West in the auctions below playing SEPTEMBER 2012 teams or rubber bridge. It is your lead. (Answers 28-30 Ardington Hotel overleaf.) £245 Leads and Defence Crombie McNeil

OCTOBER 2012 1 ♠ A Q J 3 2 ♥ 7 4 3 N 12-14 Ardington Hotel ♦ 8 5 2 W E S £245 Losing Trick Count ♣ 5 3 Sandy Bell

19-21 The Olde Barn Hotel West North East South £215 Signals and Discards 1NT Stan Powell Ardington Hotel Pass 3NT End Worthing BN11 3DZ November 2012

2-4 The Olde Barn Hotel 2 ♠ A Q J 3 2 £215 Game Tries ♥ 7 4 3 N David Stead ♦ A 5 2 W E S ♣ 5 3 9-11 Blunsdon House Hotel £245 Suit Establishment West North East South Ned Paul 1NT 16-18 Chatsworth Hotel Pass 3NT End Worthing £245 Finding Slams Crombie McNeil 3 ♠ A K 10 9 8 N 23-25 The Olde Barn Hotel The Olde Barn Hotel ♥ 7 4 3 W E £215 Playing Suit Marston, Lincs NG32 2HT ♦ 8 5 2 S Combinations ♣ 5 3 Will Parsons

23-25 Queensferry Hotel West North East South £245 Game Tries 1NT Crombie McNeil Pass 3NT End 30-2/12 Chatsworth Hotel Worthing £245 Endplay

and Avoidance 4 ♠ A K 10 9 8 Ned Paul ♥ 7 4 3 ♦ A 5 2 N W E ♣ 5 3 S FEBRUARY 2013 15 – 17 Cheltenham Regency Blunsdon House Hotel West North East South £245 Hand Evaluation Swindon SN26 7AS Chris Williams 1NT Pass 3NT End See booking form on page 40.

Page 27 Answers to Andrew Kambites’ Lead Quiz on page 27

These hands demonstrate another Same spade holding but this time you has more than three spades and partner reason why I am suspicious of tables of have an outside entry. Of course, that has a quick entry. opening leads. Sometimes, the card that means that partner is less likely to have you lead from a specific combination an entry than in problem 1. You could might depend on whether you have lead the ♠Q as in Hand 1; unless de- 4. ♠ J 6 5 2 other entries. These are definitely leads clarer can run nine tricks without touch- ♥ K Q 2 to chew over and work out. ing diamonds immediately, doing so will ♦ K Q 3 certainly beat the contract if neither de- ♣ K J 10 clarer nor dummy have more than three ♠ A K 10 9 8 ♠ 7 4 1. ♠ K 8 5 spades. Can you see an alternative? ♥ 7 4 3 N ♥ 10 9 8 W E ♥ A Q J ♠ ♦ A 5 2 ♦ J 10 9 If one opponent has K-x and the other S ♦ K 10 9 3 four spades, you do better to lead the ♠3 ♣ 5 3 ♣ 9 8 7 6 4 ♣ K 10 6 – you can then drop the ♠K on the second ♠ Q 3 ♠ A Q J 3 2 ♠ 7 6 4 round. You must focus upon your main ♥ A J 6 5 ♥ 7 4 3 N ♥ 10 9 8 5 chance. Yes, try to improve your chances, ♦ 8 7 6 4 W E ♦ ♦ ♣ 8 5 2 S A 6 but only if doing so does not compromise A Q 2 ♣ 5 3 ♣ 8 7 4 2 your main chance. Hence, leading the ♠ 10 9 ♠3 is trying to be too clever. If declarer ♥ K 6 2 has ♠K-10-x and partner has no entry, West North East South ♦ Q J 7 4 you will have talked yourself into giving 1NT ♣ A Q J 9 away the contract. However, can it cost to Pass 3NT End lead the ♠A? While, most of the time, you will continue with the ♠Q, here dummy Compare Hand 2 with Hand 1 and you West North East South puts down ♠10-9-5-4. Continuing with will see that having an outside entry al- 1NT the ♠Q would give declarer a second lows a defender extra options without Pass 3NT End spade stopper, so your only chance is to compromising the main chance (neither continue with a low spade – bingo! declarer nor dummy having more than Lead the ♠Q. You want to lose the lead three spades). The same is true here. You early to the ♠K and hope that partner gets should ask if you can cope with any 4-2 in and has a spade left. Alternatively, if 3. ♠ 7 3 2 breaks. Once again, the fact that you declarer has the ♠K and does not take it, ♥ K 10 5 have an entry on the side lessens the perhaps you can switch and wait for part- ♦ A Q J chance that partner will gain the lead. ner to lead a spade through the ♠K. ♣ K J 10 9 Obviously, if partner has a spade hon- ♠ A K 10 9 8 ♠ 6 5 our, you will usually have no problem. ♥ 7 4 3 N ♥ J 9 8 6 The 4-2 spade break you really can in- W E ♠ ♦ ♦ 2. 10 9 5 4 8 5 2 S 9 7 6 3 fluence is when declarer or dummy has ♥ A K 10 ♣ 5 3 ♣ A 8 7 a doubleton honour. In the layout shown, ♦ K J 7 ♠ Q J 4 if you lead the ♠10, declarer wins the ♣ K 10 4 ♥ A Q 2 ♠Q and dummy’s ♠J gives him a second ♠ A Q J 3 2 ♠ 8 7 ♦ K 10 4 stopper. Correct play is to start with the ♥ 7 4 3 N ♥ Q J 9 6 ♣ Q 6 4 2 ♠A and continue with the ♠K, which flat- W E ♦ ♦ ♠ ♠ A 5 2 S 9 8 4 tens declarer’s Q. The 10 then forces ♣ 5 3 ♣ 9 7 6 2 out the ♠J and you have 5 tricks. ♠ K 6 West North East South How do you feel about these hands? ♥ 8 5 2 1NT They are exploring a world that is foreign ♦ Q 10 6 3 Pass 3NT End to most players. Rather than just lead a ♣ A Q J 8 particular card because a book tells you it Lead the ♠10. You want to lose the lead is correct, the defender on lead is trying to early to the ♠Q or ♠J and hope that work out how things might develop with- West North East South partner gets in and has a spade left. out the benefit of seeing dummy. If you 1NT No guarantee of success – but you will can handle this type of thinking, you have Pass 3NT End succeed if neither declarer nor dummy the makings of a very fine player. ■

Page 28 A to Z of Bridge compiled by Julian Pottage

MARKED CARD by national bodies. The accumulation A card that at least one player knows of Master Points is necessary to attain to be in a particular hand. For the various grades in the ranking instance, whenever one of the unseen system of the EBU and other home M hands shows out of a suit, all the bridge unions. remaining unseen cards in that suit become marked in the other player’s MATCH PLAY hand. Marked cards can also arise Head-to-head competition between MAJOR PENALTY CARD by inference from the play. If West, two teams. At duplicate, some penalty cards are who has bid spades, leads the ♠Q, the major penalty cards, requiring their ♠J becomes a marked card in West’s MATCHPOINT(S) play at the first legal opportunity and hand. In a duplicate pairs event, the result giving rise to lead penalties if the of the conversion of a pair’s absolute offender’s partner gains the lead. MARKED FINESSE score on any board to a ranking score. A finesse when one opponent is In the UK, you earn two matchpoints MAJOR SUITS marked with the missing card. for every pair you beat and one for Hearts and spades, often called ‘the every pair with the same score. To majors’. MASTER ‘matchpoint’ is to do this conversion. 1. This can mean an expert or canny Here is an example: MAJOR TENACE player. The holding of the highest and third- 2. It is also a player who has won 50 N/S E/W Cont By Trks Sc Mpoints highest cards in a suit (A-Q). This Master Points. 7 3 4♠ N 11 450 5 3 combination will always yield one 9 2 4♠ N 12 480 8 0 trick and, if the missing card lies in MASTER CARD 6 5 6♠ N 11 -50 0 8 front of the tenace or if you can force The highest outstanding card in a suit. 10 8 4♠ N 11 450 5 3 the opponent with the missing card to Saying ‘the jack is a master’ means that 4 1 3NT S 10 430 2 6 lead the suit, you can make two tricks. the jack will win a trick if led, implying that the ace, king and queen of the suit Pair 9, who played North-South MAKE have all gone. against pair 2, achieved a top score. 1. If you shuffle the pack of cards Having beaten all the other 4 North- ready for the next deal, you ‘make’ MASTER HAND South scores, they get 8 matchpoints. them. The hand with control of the trump Pair 7 gets 5 matchpoints; they get 4 2. To obtain enough tricks for the suit. matchpoints for beating two scores contract. (the 430 and -50) and 1 matchpoint for 3. If you win a trick, you ‘make’ it. MASTER PAIRS tying with pair 10’s 450. Pair 4 scores For example, ‘You make five spade An event, usually by invitation, for 2 matchpoints. They beat the -50 but tricks and three heart tricks.’ players of a certain standard. lost to all the other pairs. You could calculate the East-West scores the MAKE UP A TABLE MASTER POINTS same way, though the easier thing is For a fourth player to join with three Points issued by the English Bridge just to deduct their opponents’ score others to play a game of bridge. Union, other National Bridge from 8 (the top on the board). organisations and affiliated bodies MANNERISM such as clubs and County Associations MATCHPOINT TACTICS A peculiarity of action or behaviour for success in certain tournaments. In On a minority of deals, you should (such as scratching one’s ear) that the UK, there are two types of Master play differently at matchpoints than one should carefully avoid at the Point, Local and National. Local you would at rubber bridge or IMPs. bridge table. Most mannerisms are Points are available in all tournaments What matters is how many scores you unconscious and not known by the including club duplicates. National beat, rather than how much you beat player himself. Points are available only in events run them by, which can affect tactics.

Page 29 A to Z of Bridge continued 2. After the lead of a singleton to your ace, when you return the suit for a ♠ 3 2 ruff, you play a significantly high ♥ 7 6 5 or low card to indicate the suit of a ♦ A 8 1. When the contract is safe, do not second entry to your hand, in order ♣ K Q J 10 8 7 just settle for your contract. Look to give partner a second ruff. ♠ J 9 7 6 5 ♠ A 10 8 for overtricks. Likewise, when The McKenney discard works on the ♥ 9 2 N ♥ Q J 10 8 ♦ 7 6 5 W E ♦ K 10 9 4 you are defending, do not give up similar principle, except that playing S just because the contract is cold – it is a matter of partnership agreement ♣ 6 3 2 ♣ A 9 saving an overtrick can be worth and it is available against no-trump ♠ K Q 4 many matchpoints. contracts as well. A low card asks for ♥ A K 4 3 2. If you are in a normal contract the lower of the two remaining suits, ♦ Q J 3 2 (one you expect most other pairs other than the suit of the discard; a ♣ 5 4 to reach), you should risk your high card asks for the higher of the contract for an overtrick if the other two suits. chance of making the overtrick is Here is an example: MICHAELS CUE BID well over 50%. The use of the simple cue bid, i.e. a 3. If you are defending and the direct overcall in the suit opened by an contract is normal, do not take ♠ A K J 6 opponent (as in the sequence 1♣-2♣ desperate measures that risk giving ♥ 7 or 1♠-2♠), to show a two-suited hand. an overtrick in an attempt to defeat ♦ K J 9 3 The cue bid over a minor-suit opening the contract. ♣ K J 9 4 shows both majors, while the cue bid 4. If you are in an unusual contract ♠ 9 7 over a major-suit opening shows the

and you have the chance to outscore N ♥ J 9 3 other major and a minor suit. W E ♦ those playing in a normal contract, S A Q 7 5 After the overcaller shows both it is worth taking a risk to do so. ♣ 10 8 5 2 majors, advancer normally shows 5. If the opponents outbid you when preference, jumping if appropriate. you are confident of making a After the major/minor cue bid, if contract, look to double them so as South plays in 4♠ after West opened advancer does not have support for to collect a penalty worth more than 3♥ and East raised to 4♥. the major, it is usual to play 3♣ as ‘pass the contract (even if this means you When West leads the ♥A, it is clear or correct’, while 2NT is an enquiry risk doubling them into game). that a heart continuation will be with a stronger hand. The original 6. Do not push for thin games. Positive unproductive. convention admitted hands with 5-4 scores are important. Accordingly, East’s play gives a shape but the modern style demands 7. At game level, aim for the highest McKenney signal, in this case the at least 5-5. Some partnerships allow denomination game (3NT rather ♥J, a high card, to ask for the higher- the cue bid on weak or strong hands than five of a minor). ranking side suit, diamonds. Reverse (but not those with intermediate East’s minors and the signal would be strength) while others allow it on any MEAN SCORE with the ♥3, which West should easily hand with sufficient values to bid and Another term for the datum, a score be able to read as low. the right shape. computed for a board at duplicate play, Here is the Michaels Cue Bid in from which one can determine IMPs. MENACE action: A word primarily used in the context MCKENNEY of Squeeze Play. A system of signals and discards to A menace is a card that might ♠ A Q 8 5 2 ♠ 7 4 show suit preference, also known become a winner if an opponent ♥ K 10 7 5 2 N ♥ Q J 9 W E as Lavinthal. For many players, the discards from the suit. ♦ J 2 S ♦ A 9 7 4 McKenney signal arises in two main ♣ 5 ♣ Q 9 7 3 defensive situations, normally against MERRIMAC COUP trump contracts: The sacrifice of an honour, usually a 1. You give it on the lead of an ace or king, as an entry-killing manoeuvre. West North East South winner, when it is obvious from the For example, against 3NT (see hand 1♦ bidding and sight of dummy that at the top of the next column), West 2♦ Pass 2♥ the leader needs to switch. The play leads the ♠6 and East wins with the of a high card under the ace calls ace. He then plays the ♦K to force out MILTON WORK COUNT for the higher-ranking of the other dummy’s ace. The 4-3-2-1 honour point count used two suits, excluding the trump suit; Although this play gives up a trick, by most players. Milton Work invented a low card calls for the lower of the it takes out the only entry to dummy’s this based on the McCampbell count other two suits. club winners. of 1915.

Page 30 A to Z of Bridge continued distribution as your partner. with boards moving as normal but Mirror distribution tends to be E/W pairs moving up two tables. bad news as it means you cannot ruff Alternatively, a ‘relay’ movement is anything. used with the first and last tables MINI NO-TRUMP sharing boards and a relay set of An opening 1NT bid showing 10-12 MISBOARDING boards between the middle tables. high card points. Term used when the hands go back If there is one pair short of having into the wrong slots in the board at an even number of tables, it is usual MINI SEQUENCE duplicate play. If this means that the to make the N/S at the last table the A sequence of only two touching cards next table is unable to play the board, missing pair, thereby avoiding sharing. e.g. J-10-x. then the director may fine the guilty pair or pairs. MIXED PAIRS MINI SPLINTER By leaving the board in the middle A competition in which each pair A single jump showing a singleton in of the table during play and touching comprises a man and a woman. the suit bid and primary support for only your own cards, you minimise partner. the risk of misboarding. MIXED RAISE A jump cue bid of opener’s suit to West North East South MISDEAL show a hand with 4-card support for 1♣ Pass 1♠ Pass A misdeal occurs if a card turns face partner’s overcall and the strength for 3♦ up during the deal, or any player a value raise (unassuming cue bid). receives the incorrect number of For example: Since a simple reverse of 2♦ would cards. A redeal is necessary following be forcing, West does not need 3♦ as a misdeal. a natural bid. Playing mini splinters, ♠ K 10 7 5 3♦ usually shows a raise to 4♠ with a MISÈRE ♥ A 8 6 3 N W E singleton diamond; 4♦ would denote a A player is said to have followed a ♦ A 10 4 S similar hand but with a void diamond. misère (slang) line if his play was ♣ 7 3 inferior, especially highly inferior. MINOR PENALTY CARD ‘Butcher’ and ‘Carve’ are similar At duplicate, a low card played terms. West North East South inadvertently may become a minor 1♣ 1♠ Pass penalty card. The penalties are far MISFIT 3♣ less severe than those that apply for a Description of a situation when major penalty card. both hands of a partnership have MIXED TEAMS distributional hands with shortages in A competition in which each team MINOR SUITS each other’s long suit(s). includes at least one man and one Clubs and diamonds, often called ‘the woman, often, though not necessarily, minors’. with changing partnerships. ♠ K 9 6 5 4 2 ♠ 7

MINOR SUIT SWISS ♥ A Q 8 5 4 N ♥ 7 3 MODIFIED GRAND W E A rare convention whereby responses ♦ Void S ♦ A Q 9 7 6 4 2 SLAM FORCE of 3♥ and 3♠ (and optionally 3♦ after ♣ Q 5 ♣ K 8 3 After the trump suit has been 1♣) to an opening of one of a minor agreed, a bid of 5NT, bypassing 4NT, show good trump support, sound enquires about the Grand Slam. values for at least 3NT and some Here East is short in West’s majors There are various modifications of the slam interest. The convention has the while West is very short in East’s convention, but the most common are: advantage that responder can show diamonds. 1. 6♣ shows none of the top three his support and values without taking The usual rule, when you diagnose honours the bidding beyond 3NT. You may use a misfit, is to stop the bidding at a low 6 of the agreed suit shows one of the the Swiss response to show a strong level. top three honours holding in the suit bid or to show 2. 6♣ shows one of the top three specific hand-types. MITCHELL MOVEMENT honours A simple pairs movement in which the 6 of the agreed suit shows none of MINOR TENACE N/S pairs remain stationary, the E/W the top honours A holding of the second and fourth pairs move to the next higher table With two of the top honours, in both highest cards in a suit, i.e. K-J. and the boards to the next lower table cases responder bids the Grand Slam. after each round. MIRROR DISTRIBUTION If there is an even number of tables, MONSTER Having the same or very similar the middle round is a ‘skip’ round, A very powerful hand.

Page 31 A to Z of Bridge continued MOVEMENT bid in a minor or a strong A schedule determining balanced hand. Other Better Hand the move at the end of strong options are a minor each round. In a Mitchell two-suited hand and an un- Evaluation MORTON’S movement, half the pairs specified three-suited hand FORK COUP will move. In a pure Howell (4-4-4-1 or 5-4-4-0). Bernard Magee A term used to describe movement, all but one of the Usually, responder bids Introduction a play when, like the pairs will move. The boards 2♥ (or 2♠ if holding support for hearts) to allow opener Better Hand Evaluation is victims of Henry VII’s will always move. aimed at helping readers to Lord Chancellor, Cardinal to clarify which type of add greater accuracy to their Morton, whatever the MOVEMENT CARDS hand he holds. Opener bidding. It deals with auctions defender’s action, it is Cards placed on each passes 2♥ with a weak two in which you and your partner, in hearts or bids 2♠ with a against silent opponents, can losing. Here is an example: table in a duplicate event describe your hands fully to directing players to their weak two in spades. Other each other and, by evaluating next table at the end of each opener’s rebids show strong them accurately, find the best ♠ K 4 2 round. hands. final contract. The emphasis of ♥ A 6 5 4 all good, accurate bidding is on hand evaluation. ♦ Q 3 2 MOYSIAN FIT MULTI CUE BIDS ♣ Q 5 2 A 4-3 trump fit is a Moysian A system of control-show- There are two general types of auction: a) a fit is found and b) ♠ 10 9 8 7 ♠ J 6 5 3 fit. The term comes from ing cue bids, also known as no fit is found. ♥ 10 3 N ♥ 2 W E Alphonse Moyse Junior, Italian Style Cue Bids, by When you do not have a fit, ♦ A 9 8 4 S ♦ J 10 6 5 whose bidding style meant which you treat first- and you are aiming to describe the ♣ K 9 4 ♣ 8 7 6 3 that he finished frequently second- round controls as of strength of your hand as soon ♠ A Q in trump contracts with equal importance initially. as possible, most often using ♥ K Q J 9 8 7 only a 4-3 fit. The purpose is to establish no-trump bids. This book be- ♦ K 7 at as low a level as possible gins by discussing balanced hand bidding in Acol, as it ♣ A J 10 MUD that the partnership pos- is very important that both Standing for Middle-Up- sesses first- or second-round members of a partnership Down, this is a method control in every suit, with a have an accurate knowledge of As South in 6♥, you receive of leading from a three- subsequent 4NT enquiry how to show hands of different strengths. a spade lead. You win card suit (with no honour available to confirm that the with the ace and use high holding in the suit) by partnership has sufficient When a fit is found, there is hearts from hand to draw leading the middle card and, first-round controls. much re-evaluation of the hand to be done; point count, trumps. It looks as if you on the next play of the suit, though still important, needs might lose a diamond and following with the highest to be evaluated together with a club (if the finesse fails). card. Partner is therefore ♠ K 8 5 ♠ A Q J 10 7 2 distribution. The best way of However, if you play a able to identify that the lead ♥ A K Q 8 4 ♥ 6 reaching an accurate assess­ N ment is to use the Losing Trick small diamond from hand is not from a doubleton. For ♦ 2 W E ♦ A K J S Count; this is an important towards dummy’s Q-3-2, example, with 7-6-5, you ♣ 10 8 5 3 ♣ J 7 4 method of hand evaluation and West has no recourse. If he would lead the six and later takes up a number of chapters. rises with the ace, this will play the seven and five in Finally, we move on to different establish dummy’s queen that order. West East forms of evaluation including for a second club discard 1♥ 2♠ game tries and splinter bids. (the ♠K will take care of one MULTICOLOURED 3♠ 4♦ You can never know enough methods of hand evaluation; losing club). TWO DIAMOND the more you learn, the better If West ducks, the queen OPENER (MULTI) East’s 4♦ shows first- or you get at judging your hand. wins and you can go on to A conventional 2♦ open- second- round control ♦ Although the Losing Trick discard the K on a spade, ing bid used to show three of diamonds and, just as Count is used more easily in just losing one club. or four distinctly different importantly, denies first- tandem with your partner, a types of hand, including or second-round control large proportion of the ideas MOVE at least one weak and one of clubs (East would make in this book can be used by an ♣ individual. For example, eval- The change of seats by strong type. The most popu- the cheaper cue bid of 4 if uating your hand to be worth certain players in a duplicate lar version of the convention holding a club control). This an extra point is going to help pairs or teams at the end of shows either a weak two-bid enables the players to stop anyone you partner – as long each round. in a major, or a strong two safely in 4♠. ■ as you get it right. £14 including postage See Mail Order Form Book your Voyages of Discovery Cruise today. ( 01483 489961 on page 7.

Page 32 Julian Pottage answers your bridge questions

Should I Trust my Partner?

My South hand of course. A short suit lead your chance of success. was as follows: ♠ A K J 7 is more likely to succeed If you are simply too Q ♥ K 8 4 when you have two or high, try to imagine some ♦ Q 7 4 three cards in the suit. favourable layout that would ♠ 8 5 4 3 2 ♣ A 10 3 enable you to make your ♥ J ♣♦♥♠ contract – or perhaps a ♦ A K 9 6 3 2 defensive error – if you run a ♣ J ♣♦♥♠ Apart from long suit, it is surprising how avoiding them, often the defenders throw 1. When can Qcan you offer the wrong things away. West North East South partner open any general tips for 1♠ Pass 2♦ Q4NT and what minimising the result ♣♦♥♠ Pass 3NT Pass 4NT are the responses? of a bad contract when Pass 5♦ Pass 5♠ 2. Defending a 3NT you end up as declarer Playing second Pass 6NT Pass ? contract, could a in the wrong contract? and fourth leads, singleton ten be a David Salmon by email . QI led the 10 from I passed 6NT, which was sensible opening lead? K-10-9-8-4. My partner a disaster. Should North Patricia Wicebloom by email. If possible, avoid would lead the jack have trusted his partner, letting on that you from K-J-10-9-4 and even though South may 1. A 4NT opening A are in a bad contract. the 8 from K-10-9-8-4. have misled him? carries a specific For example, if you are in What is the difference? Mary Bartlett by email. A meaning. Partner has a 4-3 fit, it may be right for Geoff Simpson by email. a hand with huge playing the defenders to force the South’s bidding is strength (eleven or twelve long hand to ruff. So long as If you lead the indeed misleading. tricks) missing an ace or two they do not know you are in 10 from K-10-9- A Nothing suggests and wants to know which ace a 4-3 fit, however, they may A 8-4 and the jack possession of 5-card spade you have. With the ace of adopt a different strategy. from K-J-10-9-4, these are support. With no suit agreed, spades, hearts or diamonds, Another tip is to standard leads. If you lead raising 3NT to 4NT should you bid the suit with the ace. concentrate on playing the the 10 from either holding, be a quantitative bid. 4♠ is With no aces, you bid 5♣. contract you are in rather that is a strong 10 lead. the correct bid at that point. With the ace of clubs, you than dwelling on the contract Your partner is the first Alternatively, South could have to jump to 6♣. If you you should have been in. If person I have come across start with 4♣ (splinter) or, if are lucky enough to have you stop in 4♠ and see that who would lead the 8 from you are playing 2NT as a two aces, you bid 5NT. 7♦ has good play, do not K-10-9-8-4. Nobody else game forcing raise, with 2NT. 2. Leading a short suit waste your effort in working leads fourth highest when Having said that, South against a no-trump contract out how you would play in holding an interior sequence. should not correct 6NT to can be a good idea if the 7♦. Equally, do not argue Anyone playing standard 7♠. There could so easily be bidding marks partner with with your partner about the leads or strong 10s would an ace missing. 6NT could length in the suit. Partner bidding. Anything that takes lead the ten; those playing have fair play if partner will need a good holding if your mind away from the task zero or two higher leads has something like this: you have only a singleton, at hand is likely to reduce would lead the 9.

Page 33 Ask Julian continued 2♦ Minimum without clubs’ and then select ‘Acol balanced hand. This leaves length in the majors Players bridge club’. the other bid free for weak 2♥ Minimum with hands with a long minor. heart length ♣♦♥♠ Thus, if you play 1NT-2♠ as Is Acol played 2♠ Minimum with a range enquiry, you use widely anywhere spade length Playing transfers 1NT-2NT on weak hands Qelse in the world 2NT Maximum with- and Stayman, my with a long minor. Partner apart from the UK? out major length Qpartner opened has to rebid 3♣ over your Judith Munzinger, 3♥ Maximum with 1NT (weak). I wished 2NT. Then, you pass if your Switzerland. heart length to play in diamonds: long suit is clubs or convert 3♠ Maximum with to 3♦ when, as here, your You will find Acol spade length long suit is diamonds. widely played in ♠ 10 9 8 A Ireland as well as the What ‘length’ means de- ♥ 3 ♣♦♥♠ UK. I understand that some pends upon the previous ♦ A Q 9 6 4 2 players in the Netherlands, bidding. In an unbid suit, it ♣ Q J 10 With a regular Australia, New Zealand and means 4 cards. In your own partner, I play South Africa also play Acol. suit, it means 5 cards. In Qduplicate pairs I just had a quick look at responder’s suit, it means I bid 2♦, which partner on Bridge Club Live the Acol Players’ Bridge Club 3 cards. In the sequence converted to 2♥. I rebid frequently. The results on BBO. With one exception, you cite, 2♥ (or 3♥) would 3♦. Partner mistook of all the pairs are all the players I found came show 5 hearts while 2♠ (or this as 5-5 in the red available together with from the UK or Ireland. 3♠) would show 3 spades. suits and bid 4♥. We the bidding and the play Minimum will mean 15 or went 5 off. Partner of all pairs on all the ♣♦♥♠ a poor 16. Maximum will said that if I wished to boards that we played. mean 17 or a good 16. play in diamonds, then Do you know of a method You and Bernard I should bid 2♣ after by which to analyse these recommend that ♣♦♥♠ his 1NT and then rebid results, to determine Q1♥-1♠-1NT shows 3♦. Is this correct? where we can improve 15-17 points. How does Are there any M C J Jefferies, our performance, both responder know how websites or Padbury, Bucks. bidding and play? many points you have Qdownloads Mike Bass by email. in the 15–17 range? where a single person If you open 1♥ Beryl Pattinson by email. can bid and play a and rebid 2♦, you If you are playing hand of bridge? A would not expect matchpoints, I If you want to play Brian Joyce, your partner to think you A suggest you look in no-trump and Hurstpierpoint, Sussex. had diamonds only, would at all the boards where A just want to know you? It is the same playing you and your partner whether you have game You can buy QPlus transfers. If you bid 2♦ and scored 25% or less. values, you can simply raise bridge to play on then 3♦, you show hearts Sometimes the opponents to 2NT, invitational. Partner A your Windows and diamonds. Your rebid got lucky – they stayed out then passes or goes on computer. You can try a adds to the description of a doomed game that to 3NT as appropriate. demo version here: you have already made; everyone else was bidding If you want to know http://www.mrbridge.co.uk/ it does not cancel it. – or they bid a slam that because you are thinking of downloads/download. You can play as partner nobody else bid. Most of the a slam or you might wish to php?program=qplus suggests for a weak time, however, if you score play in a major, you find out By playing online, you hand with diamonds, 0-25% on a board, you and by using 2♣ as an artificial can play 24 hours a day though, these days, many your partner could have enquiry ‘Checkback’. This 7 days a week with or people play that Stayman done something about it. asks for more information without a partner. There followed by a new suit at Then, you need to ask about opener’s hand. It is are various options at the three level is forcing. yourself why you scored similar in concept to using www.bridgebase.com If you want to keep 1NT- poorly. Three questions 2♣ Stayman in reply to BBO is free (with 2♣-2♥/♠-3♦ for a stronger will probably resolve 90% a 1NT opening, though certain exceptions). hand, how you get to sign of your poor scores: opener’s replies are a If you play only Acol, I off in diamonds depends on (i) Did you misdefend? bit more informative. suggest you go to the Acol how you play 1NT-2NT and (ii) Were you in the The replies to the 2♣ players’ club on BBO. You 1NT-2♠. Presumably, one wrong contract? Checkback enquiry need to go to ‘list all tables’ of those bids is your way to (iii) Did you get off to a poor are as follows: then ‘all public and private show a game-invitational lead?

Page 34 Ask Julian continued Opener Responder As West, I held what is the minimum 1♠ 2♥ the follow- holding in my hand 2♠ 4NT Qing hand: to pass 2♦ doubled? 5♦ 5NT Name and address supplied. These players finished in 6NT Is 5NT a sign off? ♠ K Q 6 3 It is quite common to Qgoing down K L Mills, Bournemouth. ♥ 6 4 play that, when an with the two aces ♦ 8 3 A opponent doubles missing. North had 3 The simple answer is ♣ A Q 9 8 5 the transfer, opener com- losers and South 7. no. Whatever form pletes the transfer only when A of Blackwood you holding three-card (or better) play, a 5NT bid by the player West North East South support. Your partner’s pass ♠ Void who bid 4NT carries the 1♣ Dbl 1♥ 2♦ thus indicates a doubleton ♥ A K 9 2 same message, ‘We have no ? heart. Opener will often have ♦ A Q 8 6 obvious losers – please let four diamonds but might ♣ K Q J 3 2 me know more about your Should I pass (as be 4-2-3-4 or 3-2-3-5. hand – particularly kings.’ South’s bid was higher Since your spades were N In the situation you have than my planned 1♠ poor, it seems reasonable to W E S given, responder is an- rebid)? What would a rebid 2♥ even though you nouncing that he has 4 key double have meant? expect to be facing a dou- ♠ K Q 10 8 7 6 2 cards and the ♠Q (thereby Ron Turner, Alton (similar bleton. This is also consistent ♥ Q 10 giving the partnership all from Heather Thomson). with your original decision ♦ 10 4 5 key cards and the ♠Q). to use a transfer rather than ♣ 6 4 Opener should then show With a minimum Stayman. As it was, leav- kings. Some people play opening, it seems ing in 2♦ doubled does not that you show how many A right to pass when sound like a disaster. A-J-x-x How should they have kings you have i.e. 6♣=0, the opposing action means facing K-10-9 sounds like bid (North was dealer)? 6♦=1 etc; some play that that you cannot make your quite a playable trump suit. John Smith by email. you show specific kings intended rebid. Partner will i.e. 6♣=♣K, 6♦=♦K etc. have another chance and ♣♦♥♠ The losing trick The only way responder can work out that you were count works only can sign off is to bid 5♠ – intending to rebid 1♠ or Partner opens a A when you have a he cannot sign off in 5♥ 2♣, acting accordingly. weak no-trump. fit. You should not expect it because 5♥, being the next There are three common QYou hold a 5332 to work on a misfit deal. suit up, would be asking ways to play your double (i) hand with the 5-card suit The auction would whether opener has the ♠Q. strong no-trump values (ii) a major and 0-10 HCP. have been very easy had 3-card heart support or (iii) What factors do you the other hand been the ♣♦♥♠ penalties. It is up to you and take into consideration dealer (3♠-4♠-end). your partner to agree on the before deciding whether With the strong hand as When my RHO meaning. On any of these to ‘pass’ or ‘transfer’? the dealer, you could bid opened 3♥, I had three meanings, a double Paul Jesper by email (similar 1♣-1♠-2♥-2♠-3NT-4♠. Qa good open- would not fit your hand. from Gillian Glynne-Davies). Opener has shown a ing hand, 15 points, but strong hand by reversing balanced. I hesitated ♣♦♥♠ Different people use and then jumping to 3NT. over what to bid, eventu- different rules in this Responder has no interest ally passing. Did I have My partner A situation. I am not in a slam knowing the enough to overcall 3NT? opened 1NT sure whether anyone has deal is a misfit (opener Margaret Johnson, Solihull. Q(12-14) and I done any computer simula- has shown two suits and a bid 2♦ (transfer) with tions to produce a definitive good stopper in the third, so A usual yardstick 4 poor spades and 5 answer. I look at the double- must be short in spades). when deciding hearts. The next hand ton and at the long suit. If A whether you are doubled. My partner the doubleton is Q-x and the ♣♦♥♠ strong enough to bid over passed with ♦A-J-x-x. I 5-card suit is poor (one hon- an opposing pre-empt is to took his pass as showing our), I would often pass 1NT. Playing Roman put partner with a flattish 8 loads of diamonds; with If the doubleton contains any Keycard count. With 15 facing 8 and ♦K-10-9, I passed. honour but the 5-card suit QBlackwood, bad breaks, you would not What action should does not, I would often pass. the bidding started really expect to make 3NT, have taken place Probably 90% or more of the as follows: so you would normally pass. after the double and time, I would transfer.

Page 35 Ask Julian continued What do you unlikely that they can make a a top-notch pair, your RHO think of our successful retreat to 5♠. North might work out that you have Qbidding on the should lead a trump against a doubleton in the suit and following deal? I realise 5♠ doubled to cut down that you need four tricks in Playing Standard East should have given diamond ruffs in dummy. the suit and so hold up with Acol and third preference to 5♠. If South correctly raises such holdings. In that case, Qin hand, I held to 3♥, West’s action is less it could well be correct to the West cards: clear. If West bids 4♦, North play for the 3-3 break. N/S Vul. has more reason to fear a ♠ 10 9 6 correction to 4♠ than he did ♣♦♥♠ ♠ A K J 6 ♠ 4 ♥ K 9 7 5 4 2 on the sequence at the table. ♥ K Q J 7 4 N ♥ A 10 9 5 2 ♦ A Q J 9 However, with the ♦K almost With a 4441 hand W E ♦ J 10 6 S ♦ A Q 5 4 ♣ Void certainly onside, 4♥ looks a and 12-14 points, ♣ K ♣ 9 8 3 ♠ A K J 8 7 2 ♠ 3 good spot, so North probably Qwould it be ♥ Void N ♥ J 10 8 bids 4♥ rather than doubling. sensible to ‘pass’ and W E ♦ K 10 6 3 2 S ♦ 7 If East-West buy the contract, await developments? If West East ♣ A 5 ♣ K J 10 9 they will do so at the four lev- opposition bid your short Pass 7 6 4 2 el. I am afraid I cannot see a suit, you can make a 1♥ 4♥ ♠ Q 5 4 way for East to bid his clubs. takeout double. If the Pass ♥ A Q 6 3 opposition pass and ♦ 8 5 4 ♣♦♥♠ partner bids, you can My instinct was to ♣ Q 8 3 respond accordingly. investigate further How should I play There seems every but I thought better this combination chance that either of it. I made 13 tricks West North East South Qto secure four partner or opposition when North had ♦K-x-x 1♠ 2♥ Pass Pass tricks? Dummy has will have sufficient points and I was able to 2♠ Pass Pass 3♥ no side entries. to make a bid. discard the ♣K. Several 4♦ Pass 5♣ Pass Martin McNeill, pairs had bid 6♥. 5♦ End Richmond, Surrey. My partner was not at A K 9 8 4 all pleased, as several Bryan Newman, While it is true that N pairs had bid the Bishopsteignton, Devon. W E when you have 12-13 S small slam. I thought A points and a single- that partner’s hand With 10 HCP and 10 7 ton, someone else will often was too good for a 4-card support, have sufficient values to open direct raise to game. A admittedly in a the bidding, it will not solve Was I correct? completely flat hand, South I reasoned that the all your problems if you pass. Margaret Bleakley by email should not be passing 2♥. outstanding cards might Partner will not play you for (similar from K Davies, A raise to 3♥ is in order. be divided 4-2 with an such a good hand – you Birmingham). West would then not have honour in each hand. may need to take over the had the chance to bid I proceeded to lead subsequent bidding, guess- Your partner’s 3♦ (or his actual 2♠). the 10 and let it run to ing how high you should go. simple raise to 4♥ West should not have East’s queen. Then, on With 14 points, the chance A was a poor choice. rebid 2♠: this was a false regaining the lead, I someone else has opening She should have done economy – with the heart played the 7 to dummy’s values goes down. There is something more descriptive. void, the bidding is unlikely to 9. This lost to East’s jack also the possibility that your One possible bid would end – besides, it understates and the roof fell in. partner also has a 4441 type. be 3♦. As a passed hand, the playing strength. If he David Amon by email. It would be embarrassing she cannot have 15 points had got over the strength if you and your partner held: or so. The jump shift shows of the hand and shown the Against most a maximum pass with at second suit by rebidding 3♦, opponents, your least nine cards between he would have had no reason A play was correct. ♠ A 9 4 2 ♠ K Q 10 3 your suit and the suit bid to bid again after that. You are more likely to find ♥ A 9 4 2 N ♥ 5 W E (including at least four cards North’s final pass is J-x-x-x or Q-x-x-x on your ♦ 5 S ♦ A 7 6 2 in your suit). The alternative being overly sporting. If left than Q-J-x on your right. ♣ K Q 10 3 ♣ A 9 5 2 is a splinter of 3♠, assuming the opponents are in a silly Your right hand opponent is you play splinters. This contract, you can double. unlikely to consider holding shows a raise to 4♥ with a Given that the opponents up with J-x or Q-x. However, You would rather be in a slam singleton or void in spades. tried to stop in 2♠, it is if you were playing against than pass out the deal.

Page 36 Ask Julian continued when holding A-K-J-x-x) and the king when not wanting Basic Bridge you to unblock. Since it is The Guide To Good Acol Bidding & Play normal to play the lower of I was on lead touching honours, the ace by Ron Klinger in collaboration with against 3NT after is an unusual card to play Pat Husband & Andrew Kambites reviewed by David Huggett Qmy partner had from ace-king, asking you bid diamonds. This was to do something unusual. £9.99 from The London Bridge Centre the layout in the suit: It seems that your partner ( 020 7288 1305 www.bridgeshop.com was at fault in playing the ace on the first round. his book was first The later chapters deal ♦ 8 6 published in Great more exclusively with de- ♣♦♥♠ Britain in 1978 and clarer play and defensive N ♦ Q 7 2 W E ♦ A K 9 4 3 Tthe fact that this is the fif- strategies and, if that is not S In teaching the teenth impression gives enough, there are a number ♦ J 10 5 Jacoby 2NT testament to what an out- of appendices at the end re- Qresponse (game standing piece of work it lating to particular topics. forcing raise of opener’s is. It tells you just about Maybe it is about which I led the two, which my suit) to an opening bid everything you would ever suit to lead, or what card partner won with the ace. of 1♥/1♠, I recommend need to know about how from that suit once you have Then, he led the king that following the to play this game. In fact, chosen the suit, but, to my and I unblocked the suit 2NT bid, the bidding if you know nothing at all, mind, the best one is the de- by playing the queen. up to 4NT should be you will if you read the first bunking of all the myths and The ♦J was declarer’s Italian cue bidding. I thirty pages or so. fallacies that surround the ninth trick. As it turned would be interested Once the book starts in game. As an aside, I can tell out, partner had the ♥A in your comments. earnest, there are fifteen you that people who learned as well, so we would Alan Mansell, Milford-on-Sea. chapters starting with bal- at their mother’s knee re- have beaten the contract anced hands and gradually member all the things that easily on a different 1. It is common to progressing with advice on are just not true and few of defence. Did I do wrong? play that opener’s how to deal with less-bal- the things that are. Charles Fernandes, A initial rebid shows anced and stronger hands. I really wish I had come Littlestone, Kent. something about the shape About halfway through, across this book earlier be- of the hand and perhaps the book starts to look at cause, from a teacher’s point At expert level it is whether it is minimum. For the competitive auction, of view as well as the stu- quite common to example, the bid of a new dealing with overcalls and dent’s, it is a gold mine of A play that you lead suit at the three level shows the requirements for mak- information and the prac- third and fifth in partner’s either a singleton in the ing a low-level takeout tice hands alone are enough suit. Your partner would then suit or four cards in the suit double. to warrant the cost. know you could not hold J-x- (obviously you and your What is so good about So did I like everything x-x when you led the two and partner have to agree which this is that, both during about this book? Not quite: I could defend accordingly. way round you are playing it). and at the end of each disliked the way the authors On the scenario as given, Cue bidding can come later. chapter, there are lots of ex- recommended adding on you have not said whether 2. Amongst the top amples and practice hands extra points for distribution. declarer dropped the 10 on players, it has become for you and your partner to The average learner finds it the first round. If declarer almost universal to use get to grips with. But what hard enough as it is with failed to drop the 10, your Italian style (multi style) cue is better is that, through- the simple 4-3-2-1 count. I partner might work out that bidding, whereby you show out the chapters on bid- am not convinced either of with J-10-x-x you could have the cheapest control first, ding, the writers never lose the merits of opening the led the jack and so play you whether it is a first-round sight of the fact that, hav- lower of two four-card suits for your actual holding. or second-round control. ing reached a contract, it in an otherwise balanced Another possible solution When experts agree about needs to be played in the hand but maybe that is just is that partner wins the first an aspect of bidding (which right way, so that bidding, a personal preference and trick with the ace when does not happen very often), play and, later, defence ap- these are minor quibbles. wanting you to unblock (e.g. they are usually right. ■ pear together. (I know as a The book deservedly merits teacher one can spend too its undoubted acclaim and it much time on the bidding should be compulsory read- E-mail your questions for Julian to: to the detriment of other ing for anyone hoping to get [email protected] facets of the game.) to grips with the game.

Page 37 GLOBAL TRAVEL INSURANCE A1 Yeoman Gate, Yeoman Way, Worthing, BN13 3QZ GLOBAL TRAVEL GLOBAL TRAVEL INSURANCE ( INSURANCE Services Limited 01903 267432 Fax 01903 268946 Email [email protected] Services Limited

SINGLE TRIP SUMMARY OF COVER

The following represent the Significant and Key Features of the policy including Exclusions and Limitations that apply per person. A full copy of the policy document is available on request.

CANCELLATION OR CURTAILMENT up to £1,500 PERSONAL LUGGAGE, MONEY & VALUABLES up to £2,000 If you have to cancel or cut short your trip due to illness, injury, redundancy, jury service, the police Covers accidental loss, theft or damage to your personal luggage subject to a limit of £200 for any requiring you to remain at or return to your home due to serious damage to your home, you are one article, pair or set and an overall limit of £200 for valuables such as cameras, Jewellery, furs, covered against loss of travel and accommodation costs. etc. Luggage and valuables limited to £1500. Delayed luggage, up to £75. Policy Excess £50. Policy Excess £75. Money, travel tickets and travellers cheques are covered up to £500 against accidental loss or theft For persons aged 61 to 70 years the excess is increased to £100. (cash limit £250). Policy Excess £50. For persons aged 71 to 90 years the excess is increased to £150. No cover is provided for loss or theft of unattended property, valuables or money or for loss or theft See section headed Increased Excess for Pre Existing Medical Conditions for increased not reported to the Police within 24 hours of discovery. excesses applicable to claims arising from pre-existing medical conditions. PASSPORT EXPENSES up to £200 PERSONAL ACCIDENT up to £15,000 If you lose your passport or it is stolen whilst abroad, you are covered for additional travel and A cash sum for accidental injury resulting in death, loss of sight, loss of limb or permanent total accommodation costs incurred in obtaining a replacement. No Policy Excess. disablement. No Policy Excess. DELAYED DEPARTURE up to £1,500 MEDICAL AND OTHER EXPENSES up to £10,000,000 If your outward or return trip is delayed for more than 12 hours at the final departure point to/from Including a 24 HOUR WORLDWIDE MEDICAL EMERGENCY SERVICE UK due to adverse weather conditions, mechanical breakdown or industrial action, you are entitled (a) The cost of hospital and other emergency medical expenses incurred abroad, including to either (a) £20 for the first 12 hours and £10 for each further 12 hours delay up to a maximum additional accommodation and repatriation expenses. of £60, or (b) the cost of the trip (up to £1,500) if you elect to cancel after 12 hours delay on the Limit £250 for emergency dental treatment and £5,000 burial/cremation/transfer of remains. outward trip from the UK. Policy Excess £50 (b) only. Limit £2,500 for transfer of remains to your home if you die in the UK. MISSED DEPARTURE up to £500 Policy Excess £75 Areas 1, 2 & 3, £150 Area 4 or on a Cruise. Additional travel and accommodation expenses incurred to enable you to reach your overseas For persons aged 61 to 70 years the excess is increased to £150 Areas 1, 2 & 3, £500 Area destination if you arrive too late at your final UK outward departure point due to failure of the 4 or on a Cruise. vehicle in which you are travelling to deliver you to the departure point caused by adverse weather, For persons aged 71 to 90 years the excess is increased to £300 Areas 1, 2 & 3, £1,000 Area strike, industrial action, mechanical breakdown or accident to the vehicle. No Policy Excess. 4 or on a Cruise. PERSONAL LIABILITY up to £2,000,000 See section headed Increased Excess for Pre Existing Medical Conditions for increased excesses applicable to claims arising from pre-existing medical conditions. Covers your legal liability for injury or damage to other people or their property, including legal expenses (subject to the laws of England and Wales). Policy Excess £250. (b) HOSPITAL BENEFIT up to £300 An additional benefit of £15 per day for each day you spend in hospital abroad as an in-patient. LEGAL EXPENSES up to £25,000 No Policy Excess. To enable you to pursue your rights against a third party following injury. No Policy Excess.

MAIN EXCLUSIONS AND CONDITIONS Increased Excess for Pre Existing Medical Conditions The following represents only the main exclusions. The policy document sets out all of the Acceptance of pre existing medical conditions is made by the application of increased conditions and exclusions. A copy of the full policy wording is available on request in writing prior excesses in the event of claims arising from the pre existing condition. to application. If You have ever had a circulatory, heart or blood pressure related problem, a stroke, cancer, asthma or any breathing problems, diabetes or any psychological problem, the following MAIN HEALTH EXCLUSIONS: excess will apply (other than in respect of claims that are specifically excluded) : Insurers will not pay for claims arising Under the Cancellation or Curtailment section – double the normal excess. 1. Where You (or any person upon whose health the Trip depends) have or have had symptoms Under the Medical & Other Expenses section – which are awaiting or receiving investigation, tests, treatment, referral or the results of any of For persons aged 60 years or less the excess is increased to £500 Areas 1&2, £750 Area the foregoing, unless We have agreed in writing to cover You. 3, £1,000 Area 4 or on a Cruise. 2. From any terminal illness suffered by You (or any person upon whose health the Trip depends). For persons aged 61 to 90 years the excess is increased to £1,000 Areas 1&2, £1,500 Area 3. From any medical condition for which You (or any person upon whose health the Trip depends) 3, £2,000 Area 4 or on a Cruise. have within 12 months prior to the date of issue of this insurance been diagnosed with a medical Please note that we consider a Cruise to be a Trip by sea in a liner calling at a number of ports. condition or have been admitted or undergone a procedure/ intervention. 4. Medical conditions existing prior to the payment of the insurance premium or any consequence thereof in respect of which a Medical Practitioner would advise against travel or that treatment may be required during the duration of the Trip. Medical Screening OTHER GENERAL EXCLUSIONS Unless you are travelling to Area 4 or on a Cruise, there is no need to advise us of your Claims arising from pre existing medical conditions. 1. Winter sports, any hazardous pursuits, any work of a non sedentary nature. If You have a history of any medical condition and are travelling within Area 4 or on a 2. Self inflicted injury or illness, suicide, alcoholism or drug abuse, sexual disease. Cruise, you must first contact Towergate Medical Screening Line to establish whether 3. War, invasion, acts of foreign enemies, hostilities or warlike operations, civil war, rebellion, we can provide cover for your trip. The number to call is: Terrorism, revolution, insurrection, civil commotion, military or usurped power but this 0844 892 1698 exclusion shall not apply to losses under Section 3 – Medical Expenses unless such If you are accepted, the level of excess stated above will apply. You will receive losses are caused by nuclear, chemical or biological attack, or the disturbances were already written confirmation that you are covered for the trip. In the event that you are not taking place at the beginning of any Trip. accepted for cover having been screened, we may be able to offer you cover under 4. Failure or fear of failure or inability of any equipment or any computer program. our Single Trip “PLUS” product. 5. Bankruptcy/liquidation of any tour operator, travel agent, airline, transportation company or Please ask us for further details or go to our website. accommodation supplier. 6. Travelling to countries or regions where the FCO or WHO has advised against travel. 7. Your failure to contact the Medical Screening Line where required.

POLICY EXCESSES: The amount of each claim for which insurers will not pay and for which you are responsible. The excess as noted in the policy summary applies to each and every claim per insured person under each section where an excess applies.

If you have a complaint about the sale of this insurance you must first write to the Managing Director of Global Travel Insurance Services Ltd. Subsequently, complaints may be referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service. If we are unable to meet our liabilities you may be entitled to compensation under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. If you would like more information or are unsure of any details contained herein, you should ask Global Travel Insurance Services Ltd for further advice. ✄

Single Trip travel insurance is arranged by Global Travel Insurance Services Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Single Trip Travel Insurance Financial Services Authority and our status can be checked on the FSA Suitable for for a single round trip starting and finishing in the UK Register by visiting www.fsa.gov.uk/register or by contacting the FSA and Channel Islands, is of no more than 94 days duration, on 0845 606 1234. for persons whose age is 90 years or less. This insurance is underwritten by ETI International Travel Protection (ETI) the UK branch of Europäische Reiseversicherung A.G. Munich, an Global Travel Insurance ERGO group Company, incorporated and regulated under the laws of A1 Yeoman Gate, Yeoman Way, Worthing, BN13 3QZ Germany, Companies House Registration FC 25660 and Branch Reg- ( 01903 267432 Fax 01903 268946 istration BR 007939. ETI is licensed by the Bundesanstalt für Finanz- dienstleistungsaufsicht (BAFIN – www.bafin.de) and approved by the SINGLE TRIP APPLICATION FORM Financial Services Authority to undertake insurance business in the UK. Please FULLY complete the following in BLOCK CAPITALS. Once complete, SINGLE TRIP INSURANCE PRODUCT SUITABILITY return the application panel direct to Global Travel Insurance at the address above, with a cheque or with card details entered. Insurance is not effective until a Policy has been issued. As this description contains the Key Features of the cover provided it constitutes provision of a statement of demands and needs. Title (Mr/Mrs/Miss) Initials This insurance is suitable for a single round trip starting and finishing in the UK and Channel Islands, is of no more than 94 days duration, for Surname persons whose age is 90 years or less. This insurance is only available to persons who are permanently Telephone No. resident and domiciled in the UK and Channel Islands. House Number/Name Single Trip PREMIUM RATING SCHEDULE Street Name GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS 1. United Kingdom Town Name England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Isle of Man, including all islands comprising the British Isles (except the Channel Islands and the Postcode Republic of Ireland). (Any British Isles or UK Cruises are rated as Area 2). 2. Europe Date of leaving Home Continental Europe west of the Ural mountain range, all countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea (except, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Date of arrival Home Lebanon, Libya & Syria), the Channel Islands and the Republic of Ireland, Iceland, Madeira, The Canaries and The Azores. (Persons Screening Ref residing in the Channel Islands need to pay Area 2 rates for UK trips). 3. Worldwide Introducer Mr Bridge All countries outside of the above (except those within Area 4). 4. North America, Central America & The Caribbean Geographical Area – See Premium Panel Bahamas, Belize, Bermuda, Canada, Costa Rica, El Salvador, (1,2,3 or 4) Greenland, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, The Names of all persons to be insured Age Premium Caribbean Islands, United States of America. 1 SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS £

2 £ The following Premiums are valid for policies issued up to 31/3/2013 and for travel completed by 31/12/2013. 3 Maximum age is 90 years. £ Maximum period of insurance is 94 days. 4 £ Geographical Areas 5 £ Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 1 – 3 days £15.60 £23.80 £49.90 £71.90 6 £

4 & 5 days £18.70 £30.00 £62.70 £90.40 Credit/Debit Card Details TOTAL PREMIUM £ 6 -10 days £21.80 £40.40 £85.10 £121.80 Card No 11-17 days £24.90 £44.20 £94.60 £136.30 18-24 days £28.00 £50.80 £106.50 £153.40 Start Date End Date Issue No

25-31 days £31.10 £57.80 £121.20 £174.50 Security Code Each + 7 days call for a quotation DECLARATION All premiums include the Government Insurance Premium Tax (IPT) On behalf of all persons listed in this application, I agree that this application shall be the basis of the Contract of Insurance. I agree that Insurers may exchange PREMIUM ADJUSTMENTS information with other Insurers or their agents. I have read and understood All age adjustments apply to the age on the date of return to the UK the terms and conditions of the insurance, with which all persons above are in agreement and for whom I am authorised to sign. Persons aged 81 to 90 inclusive are subject to a premium increase of 50% in Areas 1&2 and of 100% in Areas 3&4...... Infants up to 2 years inclusive are FREE subject to being included with an Signed...... Date adult paying a full premium. The form MUST be signed by one of the persons to be insured on behalf of all persons to be insured. Children 3 to 16 years inclusive are HALF PRICE subject to being included Mr Bridge is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Global Travel Insurance with an adult paying a full premium. Unaccompanied children pay the adult rate. Services Ltd, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

✄ 328STI12 CHARITY BRIDGE BRIDGE EVENTS

AUGUST 2012 20 HUDDERSFIELD PENNINE BREAKS ROTARY CLUB 8 MACMILLAN BRIDGE TROPHY 12 for 12.30pm. Outlane St Georges Bridge Centre Golf Club. £44 per table inc. ♦ Full-board ♦ Two seminars* Darlington at 2pm. lunch, tea and biscuits. ♦ All rooms with ♦ Two supervised Duplicate bridge; Brian Noble good prizes; en-suite facilities play sessions* ( 01484 427356 master points. ♦ No single supplement ♦ Four duplicate sessions** 36 boards and tea followed 22 CHRISTIAN AID by excellent meal. £12.50. Bridge at Preston Church ( 01325 360340 Rooms, Weymouth. 1.45 Please book ..... places for me at £...... per person, for 2pm. £6.50 with tea. 22 West Norfolk Deaf Julia Moore Single .... Double .... Twin .... Association Children’s ( 01305 776138 Break-Out Club Charity Duplicate. 25 St Teresa’s Hospice Name of Hotel/Centre...... South Wootton Village Hall. Bridge The Gap afternoon at Cream tea and raffle. Richmond Support Group Date(s) ...... 1.45pm Tickets £5.00. (N Yorks) followed by tea. Ivan Gerstel Mary Lovell ( 01748 850208 Mr/Mrs/Miss ...... ( 01553 768236 24 ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH 26 FRIENDS OF EAST SUSSEX Address...... Village Hall Sawtry. HOSPICES Glyndebourne 1pm for 1.30pm. Opera House, The Mildmay Hall. 1.30pm. Gardens open ...... Champagne ‘Ritz Tea’. £10. Pat Walters 12.30pm. Champagne & tea. ( 01487 830674 Dianne Steele Postcode ...... Malcolm Howarth ( 01435 813630 ( 01480 212910 [email protected] ( ...... SEPTEMBER 2012 OCTOBER 2012 Special requirements (these cannot be guaranteed, 5 GYDA (Gulu Youth 5 ST ANDREW’S CHURCH The Mandeville but we will do our best to oblige). Development Association, Northern Uganda) Village Hall, Kimbolton. Corn Exchange, 10.00 for 10.30am. £14...... Faringdon. £15. Mavis Campion Steve Braithwaite ( 01480 860477 ( 01367 240929 Please give the name(s) of all those covered by this booking. 5 RNLI Bridge Drive, Salwarpe 13 THE PHYLLIS TUCKWELL Village Hall, Droitwich. 10.30 ...... HOSPICE. Guildford Cafe for 11am £10 inc. buffet. bridge. A day of fun Mrs P Main Please send a non-returnable deposit of £50 per person per place by bridge in Guildford played ( 01905 381935 in various venues in cheque, payable to Mr Bridge. An invoice for the balance will be sent 6 NSPCC the city centre. with your booking confirmation. On receipt of your final payment, Bridge & Supper, Royal £22 per player to include 28 days before the event, a programme and full details will be sent British Legion, Sutton. £10. coffee & lunch. together with a map. Cancellations are not refundable. Should you Wendy Powell [email protected] ( 01353 664752 require insurance, you should contact your own insurance broker. polly.youngs2@ Silvia Farmer hotmail.co.uk ( 01353 777373 14 ST MARY’S CHURCH Margaret Law Eaton Socon, St Neots. ( 01353 860334 10.00 for 10.30am. £13.50. 16 CHRISTCHURCH & EAST Malcolm Howarth DORSET CONSERVATIVE ( 01480 212910 ASSOCIATION. 7.00pm. Expiry: ...... CVV...... Issue No...... 19 PRINCESS ALICE HOSPICE West Parley Memorial Hall, Christchurch Road, West (CVV is the last 3 numbers on the signature strip) Putney Leisure Centre, The Dryburgh Hall, Putney, Parley. £26/table inc. supper. Mr Bridge, Ryden Grange, Knaphill, Surrey GU21 2TH. 11am–3pm. £68 per table Maureen Anderson to include lunch. ( 01202 894819 ( 01483 489961 Pam Turner Lesley Wilson e-mail: [email protected] ( 020 8995 2270 ( 01202 875574 website: www.holidaybridge.com *on tutorial weekends. **6 sessions on rubber/Chicago events. E-mail your charity events: [email protected]

Page 40 GREEN PAPER PLEASE as the emailed newsletter). I was interested to read I particularly enjoyed READERS’ your article ‘Modernising your article ‘Modernising the Game’ BRIDGE 114 the Game’, BRIDGE 114, and should very much like noting full well that it is to have a copy of the green in the April edition. paper when it is ready. I have a further suggestion, LETTERS Carole Gibbons, namely allowing negative Blackheath, Guildford. bids. The order of bids We received many letters would be 1♣, -1♣, 1♦, regarding the green paper. -1♦ ..., 7NT, -7NT. GOTCHA NEW SUIT This will be forwarded free In the case of negative Modernising the Game – of charge when ready. bids, you, as declarer, are BRIDGE April 2012. You saying that you will make fooled me, but not my wife, D MORE GREEN PAPER that many tricks fewer than with your ‘April Fool’s Trick’ I read with interest, 6, with that suit as trumps. article about modernising BRIDGE 114, that the This matter should be the game (page 22). EBU are considering explored and included in She saw through its absurd modernising the game and the EBU green paper. suggestions right away. would welcome ideas. Richard Moss, It took me a whole day to By and large, the game is Urmston, Manchester.

cool down from the ill-temper OK as it is but I would like I got into because of the D to see a possible change in WELL DONE ridiculous, stupid and scoring overtricks. At present, Congratulations again ill-founded ideas put forward overtricks are valued at trick on attaining your 25th for changing the greatest It would be nice to see a value. This means that a Anniversary and thank you trick taking card game ever. separate colour for each suit bid of one heart with two for celebrating it with the The obvious and urgent as part of any modernisation. overtricks will score the same Festival of Bridge Cruise. need to increase the number I would also like to see as three hearts. If overtricks As first timers on your of new young players the introduction of another were valued at say half cruise holidays, my cousin entering the game was the court card in the 15-card the trick value then players Belinda Martin and I have imaginative magical suits. A Duchess perhaps? would start to bid up to the enjoyed every moment, in ingredient needed to make Paul Oates by email. full value of their hands. and out of the bridge room this splendid spoof article This would bring duplicate and in the Palm Court. What work. Congratulations. NO JOKE scoring more in line with a delightful team you have Bryn Gravenor, Swansea. I read this a couple of rubber bridge where three assembled, all competent, times as I couldn’t believe hearts bid and made shows caring and charming. MORE MODERNISING it was not a joke. 90 points below the line, And a wonderful business Having read your article I agree it is good to whereas one heart with two partnership with Voyages ‘Modernising the Game’, encourage new players overtricks would show only of Discovery – a great ship, I think that as April 1st is of this challenging game, 30 points below the line. a super crew and most just approaching, it is an but the EBU proposals, Brian Berlanny, agreeable fellow passengers. appropriate time to publish if implemented, would Drayton, Portsmouth. We shall return. it. If it bears just a grain of certainly put me off bridge Judith Jones truth, my decision to leave and many others I would GREAT FUN and Belinda Martin. the EBU some 15 – 20 years think. The EBU seems to be I felt I had to write and say ago is now vindicated. proposing radical changes just how much I enjoyed A ROSE BY Our (unaffiliated) Lawn which I fail to see would the article in BRIDGE 114 Most of your contributors Bridge Club in Swindon is do anything other than about modernising the seem to play four- really taking off now, using discourage current players. game. I laughed out loud card majors. (Acol). 52 card packs. Currently we Let’s leave bridge as it is it was so funny – well done Just about everyone have in excess of 60 regular and as it has basically been to the author. I can’t wait to in our small club plays members and there is a for the last many decades. try out some of the ideas. five-card majors. Are steady stream of newcomers I disagreed with the EBU Gillian Machie, we unrepresentative of eager to learn the game. Our ‘Pay2Play’ change and quit Insch, Aberdeenshire. UK practice? (We also training sessions at our sister the EBU and also quit mostly favour weak club in Gorse Hill attract playing in EBU clubs. NEGATIVE BIDS no-trump). Thanks. 6 – 8 tables on a Friday. Mr Millis Miller, I very much enjoy receiving Pat Barry, Derek Fenn, Swindon. Epsom, Surrey. my copy of BRIDGE (as well Thetford, Norfolk.

Page 41 READERS’ LETTERS Swiss Teams is in aid of Long may it continue. NOTHING CHANGES continued Hospiscare. Since the This message presents an In celebration of Dickens’ inception of this event, opportunity to mention our bicentenary, your readers The Section has raised over recent experience on holiday would surely sympathise HELPFUL PLUG £55,000 for The Exeter in Gran Canaria. Having with Mr Pickwick. Hart Bridge Club are and District Hospice. holidayed there over many I quote from page 503 looking for new members. Mr O Amor, Chair. years, we thought it was of The Pickwick Papers, Meeting Tuesday 7pm Bridge Charity Committee. time we looked for a friendly first published in 1837. at Clarence Road, Fleet. game of bridge there. For details contact either THANKS Googling produced all Ian Bonser (Secretary) Thanks for your recent sorts of responses, among ( 01252 793613 helpful response to my which was reference to a [email protected] cry for help regarding the chap who called himself Nigel Willshire (Treasurer) location of a source of Rambling Roger and whose ( 01252 850552 printed table cards for use CV referred to his role as a nigel.willshire@ with multiple team events. walking leader on the island, btinternet.com As you suggested I in the course of which he website:Hartbridgeclub.co.uk spoke to John Pain at the had met bridge players. Mr A Baker by email. EBU who recommended I was able to contact him a website of Jeff Smith. by email and this led to JUST A SUGGESTION While I am reasonably a further contact with the I am delighted to have the adept with day to day leaders of bridge at the DVD ‘Ruffing For Extra Tricks’ online usage, I am afraid Scandinavian Club in San .....Poor Mr Pickwick! he and thank you again for the that although that website Agustin. Having established had never played with three generous present. If these looked at the start likely to details of the location and thorough-paced female card- excellent seminars are ever offer what I was seeking, in bridge programme at players before. They were so made in the future could I the end I could not make this club, we were able to desperately sharp, that they put in a plea for a reduction progress so I abandoned it. visit it on a recent holiday quite frightened him. If he in ‘camera flicking’? It seems However, being retired, and were made most played a wrong card, Miss pointless when really all with plenty of time for welcome by the leaders Bolo [his partner] looked a one wants to see and plan worthwhile tasks, I set about and players, all of whom small armoury of daggers; is the layout of cards with compiling table cards myself were Scandinavian, mostly if he stopped to consider Bernard’s clear instruction and so now have sets for Swedes and most of them which was the right one, Lady as voice over. The constant the combination of tables speaking very acceptable Snuphanugh would throw return to his face and to experienced at our club. The English. As expected, they herself back in her chair, and the jolly looking audience next step is to put them into all played strong no-trump smile with a mingled glance breaks the train of thought use over the next few months, and five-card majors and the of impatience and pity to Mrs making it harder and less as the opportunity arises and, standard of play was at the Colonel Wugsby; at which enjoyable to follow. when this has proved them level of most clubs in the UK. Mrs Colonel Wugsby would Apart from this distraction, to be accurate, I propose to We shall certainly play shrug up her shoulders, and the seminar itself is brilliant. let you have a letter for the there again on our next visit cough, as much as to say she Rosemary Morton Jack magazine offering them to and would recommend the wondered whether he would by email. anyone who is in need. experience to any player ever begin. Then, at the end Thanks again for your of average club ability. of every hand, Miss Bolo FUNDRAISER help – and indeed, on Bill Hirst, would inquire with a dismal The Exeter Golf & Country the wider front, for your Bramhall, Manchester. countenance and reproachful Club Bridge Section’s splendid service to the sigh, why Mr Pickwick had nineteenth Annual Charity bridge-playing community. DIRECTORY not returned that diamond, You once published a list or led the club, or roughed of clubs – would it not be the spade, or finessed the REDUCE THE COST OF YOUR POSTAGE a good idea to update and heart, or led through the Postage stamps for sale at 90% of face-value, reprint especially as there honour, or brought out the all mint with full gum. are going to be even more ace, or played up to the king, Quotations for commercial quantities not in the EBU? What about or some such thing; and available on request. including websites as well? in reply to all these grave If so can Hart Bridge Club charges, Mr Pickwick would Values supplied in 100s, higher values available as well be added? be wholly unable to plead as 1st and 2nd class (eg 1st class: 100x37p+100x9p) Tony Baker, any justification whatever... (/Fax 020 8422 4906 e-mail: [email protected] Charvil, Reading. Rupert Timpson by email.

Page 42 READERS’ LETTERS (though not from Bude) and the greatest confidence in the opening lead and continued can provide analyses of Mr Bridge, there has been dummy is exposed. Play recent Sims results. If you so much adverse publicity continues normally. think you can help, for recently re cruises in Notes: If East/West are NOW YOU KNOW example by publicising the general, that I have decided relative newcomers to the I play regularly in the problem or by me producing to abandon the idea. game, North can remain simultaneous pairs events a ‘letter to the editor’, I and Miss D Durham, as dealer throughout, so run by the EBU, previously possibly bridge players in Shirley, Solihull. that the East/West pair under the Ecats banner general would be grateful. experience bidding, declarer but now by the EBU. Brian Colvin, Secretary, STARK RAVING play and defence with While looking at results in St. Austell Bridge Club, We’re looking forward every deal. Otherwise, the Cornwall earlier this year I St. Austell, Cornwall. eagerly to coming over dealer can rotate as normal noticed that Bude, a Cornish and joining Discovery for a using individual scoring. club, were obtaining what ONLY A NAME cruise. If Stan Powell needs Bert Howard, seemed to be very skewed Apropos M J Gurney’s any assistance, I’d be glad High Peak, Derbyshire. results, in particular, large question in ‘Julian Pottage to help. I’m EBU certified. boosts in percentages for the answers your bridge Brian Moakes by email. UPS AND DOWNS N/S stream in a two winner questions’, in the June 2012 With regard to Bob’s Blog field. I followed this up in issue, I learnt the ‘Pudding COMING SOON (BRIDGE 115), we play other events this year, for Raise’ from Paul Could you please publish regularly at clubs in France Bude and also for the Sims Mendelson’s Guide to The an article on the pros and where, inevitably, the majority results for other clubs, but Bidding Battle. Paul does not cons of arrow switching play five card majors, whilst concentrating on ‘two winner’ claim to have coined the at duplicate. I know many we play our version of clubs. It was clear that some term; he merely states, ‘the people do not understand standard Acol with suitable two winner fields were being 3NT response, which we call why this is necessary. alerts. Sometimes we get a set up to favour a particular a ‘Pudding Raise’, replaces Mr George Quinton, top and sometimes a bottom orientation, sometimes N/S the inefficient and outmoded Hedge End, Southampton. and sometimes in the middle. and sometimes E/W. This Delayed Game Raise.’ I I will start a new column, We also play regularly in a manipulation produces looked up the term in the Frequently Asked Questions, club in England where the skewed national results for Official Encylopedia, in the October issue. This can majority play some version both the ‘strong’ and ‘weak’ which states, ‘A balanced be the very first question. of Acol. Sometimes we get a members of the club and raise on high card strength top and sometimes a bottom distorts national results as alone’ (British). So, as Julian MORE FOR THREE and sometimes in the middle. well. Clearly, the practice states, its nomenclature I venture to offer my own It seems that the advice could be described as originates from a British version of ‘Bridge for given to Jack would have ‘sharp’ by any criterion. player, who, is still unknown. three’ which I think has made little difference to us. When I took this up Paul Mendelson gives a some advantages over Mr R Hutty, with various members of brilliant exposition of how to various alternatives, viz:- Burgess Hill, West Sussex. the EBU (John Pain, Max use the ‘Pudding Raise’ in his 1. Deal four hands face Bavin) they recognised that chapter on Slam Bidding on down. The dealer (e.g. North) THANKS it was occuring. However, page 153. checks their point counts Like so many of your their tournament committee Paul writes a weekly bridge quickly and gives the two readers, I would just like was not prepared to issue column for The Financial with the highest count to East to thank you once again any directives to clubs which Times and is widely acclaimed and West who bid them. for the informative and would ensure ‘randomisation’ as a brilliant teacher, author, 2. The player who is to helpful read. After half a of the field. Max Bavin successful tournament player be dummy moves to the lifetime at the game, I realise did say that if I wanted to and a National Champion. South position and plays how little I really know. take the matter further I I hope this, at least that hand as a defender. Mr Martin Ison, should proceed through partly, answers the question. 3. North or South make London N3. ■ my ‘shareholder’ rep on Evan Stclair Sepion the EBU committee. by email. These responses hardly Certainly does. Write to Mr Bridge at: seem in line with the ‘best Ryden Grange, Knaphill, Surrey GU21 2TH or e-mail [email protected] behaviour’ philosophy SO BE IT espoused by the EBU. Thank you for your recent E-mail correspondents are asked to include I have had considerable communications regarding their name, full postal address, telephone support for my view from cruises. However, I am no number and to send no attachments. fellow bridge players in longer interested in a cruise Letters may be edited for length and clarity. Cornwall and the Country, holiday. Although I have

Page 43 The Diaries of Wendy Wensum

Episode 8: A Grecian Jaunt

Part 1: Beware the Novice

t was a trio that boarded a plane Justin and Bryn. Unfortunately, the passed and Spouse broke rule 2 by at Norwich International Airport. latter had overindulged the previous bidding four no-trumps (Blackwood). Following our trip to Spain, my evening and was suffering from a I sighed inwardly and considered Ifriend Millie and I were looking need to lie motionless in his darkened passing, but felt obliged to show one forward to our latest venture, a bridge room. A substitute partner for Justin ace by responding five diamonds. holiday in Rhodes. However, this time, had to be found urgently and Millie Spouse counted aces carefully and unlike the Spanish jaunt, my husband volunteered eagerly. This caused finding only one missing, jumped to decided to accompany us on the strict another problem and an emergency six spades. The complete auction was: understanding that he would not be solution was required. ‘No, No, NO!’ required to play any bridge. Millie shrieked Spouse, as he was dragged North South and I agreed willingly; he is a most into the bridge room. ‘I mean NO!’ 1♠ reluctant player who dropped out of exploded Spouse, as he was deposited 4♠ 4NT1 bridge classes at an early stage. unceremoniously at the bridge table. 5♦2 6♠ Our hotel was situated in Rhodes ‘I’ll pass throughout,’ he spluttered End Town, close to the castle, overlooking as the TD announced that play was 1Blackwood the ancient harbour once guarded by underway. ‘Don’t you dare call a spade 2One ace the Colossus of Rhodes. a shovel’, I warned him, ‘and don’t bid Spouse explored the town, while no-trumps first.’ Spouse sat South, I groaned inaudibly, but then watched Millie and I settled down to our first white-faced and trembling. Bridge in amazement as Spouse ruffed the session of bridge. ‘Why Rhodes?’ I began and, as luck would have it, he king of hearts continuation after the pondered when Millie first suggested was dealer on our first board: initial ace lead, remembered to remove the holiday. The answer became trumps, ruffed another heart and apparent when the handsome discarded the losing diamond on the stranger, Justin from the Spanish ♠ Q 9 7 3 fifth club to bring home the contract. jaunt, approached from the other ♥ 10 8 6 There was no stopping him now. His end of the room. Still handsome but ♦ 6 4 confidence grew rapidly. By mid- no longer a stranger, he and Millie ♣ A K Q 7 session, he was advising me on bidding were reacquainted in traditional ♠ 2 ♠ J 8 4 and play and, as the session came to Mediterranean style. Millie looked ♥ A K 9 5 2 N ♥ Q J 7 3 a close, he was giving opponents the W E ♦ ♦ quite flushed as bridge proceeded. Q 10 5 3 2 S K J 8 7 full benefit of his wisdom and bridge I was not surprised to learn that ♣ J 6 ♣ 8 5 theories. we finished third from bottom with ♠ A K 10 6 5 As we scored up at the end, it a measly 44%, whereas Justin and his ♥ 4 emerged that, on that first hand, Justin regular bridge partner, Bryn, finished ♦ A 9 had played in four hearts as West. top with a sparkling 67%. ♣ 10 9 4 3 2 North led the ace of clubs, followed That evening, Spouse took me to by the king. With two other aces to his discovery of the afternoon, a lose, the contract went one off for an delightful taverna close by the Turkish Immediately, Spouse broke rule 1 excellent result. A few other good quarter within the ancient walled by opening ‘One shovel.’ I glared at scores followed and our scratch team town. Millie, Justin and Bryn dined him venomously and he converted won the event by a narrow margin. elsewhere, consuming several litres of to one spade using the bidding box, ‘When is our next event, then?’ local wine, followed by a few brandies, simultaneously smiling sweetly at our enquired Spouse enthusiastically. I probably at Millie’s request. bemused opponents. I perused my groaned again, but this time audibly. On the next day, Millie and I were hand and, when West passed, I made One bridge addict in the family is bad due to play in the team event with the practical bid of four spades. East enough, but two! ■

Page 44 Dramatis Personae

Catching Up by Sally Brock Sally Brock lives in High Wy- combe with her two teenagers, her husband Raymond having died in early 2008. She works t has been quite a quiet played a spade to her king. declarers tend to win partly as a bridge professional, occasionally playing for pay but couple of months. There That was the end of it. She a lead and play a low more often writing (she is the was the Easter Festival should have been thinking, trump towards the other bridge columnist for The Sunday Iin London. I played on the ‘What can go wrong?’ The hand. Here, the declarer Times) and teaching online; the rest of the time she works on Sunday only, in the Swiss only problem is going to in the other room might the production of travel guides. Teams with Michael Byrne. be three trump losers, i.e. also have failed had She has been a member of the British/English women’s team I had not played with him a 4-0 break. There is little the defence put her in on and off since 1979. before and it was great fun. room for West to hold all dummy at trick two. Briony & Toby are Sally’s We were never threatening four spades (given she has 16-year-old daughter and to win the event but finished the heart queen or jack as Congratulations to Scotland 18-year-old son. a respectable fifth. promised by the opening on their decisive victory. Barry Myers is Sally’s new part- The following weekend lead). Even if it were possi- The following weekend, ner, both at and away from the bridge table. He is a criminal saw my first efforts for ble, you can guarantee the Barry and I went with Chris defence barrister and lives in England as captain of the contract in several ways; and Brian to France for a Shepherd’s Bush. women’s team, for the Lady the easiest is to win with slap-up meal and overnight Nicola Smith is Sally’s current Milne home international the king of hearts and play stay. international bridge partner. They formed a last-minute weekend. Although the a spade, simply covering The second Bank Holiday partnership in 2008 to join the weekend in Llandrindod whatever card West plays. weekend was the Spring England women’s team for the Wells was very enjoyable When West shows out, de- Foursomes. The format and World Mind Sports Games in Beijing where they won the gold – run efficiently and very clarer plays dummy’s queen standard of play is excellent. medal. Nicola has been playing sociable – I did not manage and should have no problem While our performance international bridge since she to inspire my team. It was in picking up East’s trumps was undistinguished, the was 17, which is rather a long time ago. the worst performance by for one more loser. final was one of the more Chris Duckworth and Brian Cal- an English team for quite a What about the defence? exciting I have seen. The laghan are friends living in West while. This was one of our In the other room, East format of the competition is London. losses: took the ♥A and switched double elimination, i.e. you Richard and Gerry are two of to her singleton diamond. need to lose twice before you Sally’s regular online clients. Richard lives in North London Declarer won in hand, after are knocked out. This often and Gerry lives in Toronto. Every Dealer West. E/W Vul. which the natural play was leads to a situation where, week Sally plays against them ♠ Q 9 6 3 a spade towards the queen. in the final, one team is for a couple of hours, stopping ♥ to discuss problems that arise 6 Now she could not go down. undefeated and one not. In – sometimes with Barry if he ♦ A J 7 4 So two things to note: this instance, the undefeated is not working, and sometimes ♣ A 9 6 5 team has the option of with herself (when she is almost flawless). ♠ Void N ♠ A J 10 2 1 Unless you have a clear playing an extra set of eight ♥ Q 8 7 2 W E ♥ A J 9 4 3 Rodney and Lorraine Lighton S route to success via a boards if they are losing are friends with whom Sally and ♦ 9 8 6 5 3 2 ♦ 10 different route, follow after 32 boards. This is what Barry usually stay when they ♣ 8 4 3 ♣ K J 10 partner’s defence. Every happened, as the undefeated go to Manchester. Both were friends of Barry’s when he was ♠ K 8 7 5 4 time you switch to a team, captained by Glyn at University. Rodney is a regu- ♥ K 10 5 new suit when you are Liggins, were trailing by 29 lar county player but Lorraine ♦ K Q defending, you cost, on IMPs (their opponents were only plays occasionally. ♣ Q 7 2 average, half a trick. Here the England national team). John Holland is another friend and Manchester resident – hus- it is inconceivable that On the first board, England band of Michelle Brunner who you can get a diamond added another double- died last year. West North East South ruff, while your trump figure swing to their total by Heather Dhondy is a youthful Pass Pass 1♥ 1♠ holding is likely to prove making two spades doubled and athletic professional bridge player, teacher and writer, liv- 2♥ 4♠ All Pass much more problematic in one room and one spade ing in London with husband for declarer if you try to in the other. However, Jeremy. She played with Nicola When England was declar- make her ruff. things now started to go until 2007 but now plays with Nevena. ing, West led a heart to 2 When you have a nasty very wrong for England Nevena Senior is slim, elegant East’s ace and East contin- surprise for declarer in and eventually Liggins won and feisty, and partner of Heath- ued the suit. Our declarer the trump suit, put some ‘comfortably’ by 14 IMPs. er. Born and raised in Bulgaria, thought the hand was go- thought into considering Congratulations to Glyn but now lives in Nottingham with husband Brian. She is a ing to be easy; she ruffed which hand you want Liggins, Joe Fawcett, John full-time bridge professional. the heart in the dummy and to put her in. Careless Holland and Ben Green. ■

Page 45 Seven Days by Sally Brock

Monday produce a daughter so or- have lunch with Barry. He ganised, clean and tidy. We is on steroids now and they Dealer West. Love All. Our household is somewhat spend an enjoyable after- seem to have helped. At least ♠ J 9 6 3 dominated by exams just noon taking everything out the lumps and bumps on his ♥ Q 9 8 7 now. Briony is in the middle of cupboards and cleaning face seem to have gone but ♦ 7 6 5 4 2 of her AS levels, and Toby’s shelves, then putting it all there are still rashes/bumps ♣ Void A levels start in a few weeks back again. in other places. ♠ A K Q 10 8 5 ♠ 7 – he is now on study leave. After dinner I Skype with In the afternoon, we play ♥ K 6 4 N ♥ A 10 3 2 ♦ W E ♦ Today is just a revision day Barry for a while. He has online against Richard and J S A K Q 10 9 3 for both of them. developed a rather alarming Gerry. Then I do some Bradt ♣ A K 3 ♣ J 2 I am up first thing and off allergy to something. It work on my laptop – Sierra ♠ 4 2 to the gym. Then back for an started a week or so ago Leone and Nigeria are the ♥ J 5 online practice session with with a lump on his forehead current ones – before meet- ♦ 8 Nicola. We have made sig- – but the lump started on ing Nicola at Zizzi’s in prep- ♣ Q 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 nificant changes to our sys- the right and moved across aration for our evening’s tem in preparation for the to the left (do you remember bridge. European Championships. that movie Alien?). Then We play for Team Nicola, West, opens 1♠ We play a strong no-trump various lumps, bumps and Teltscher in the London and I respond 2♦. Then five-card major system that rashes started to appear and Super League. Although we South joins in with 4♣. involves opening all our no- disappear all over the place. won the league in the last Nicola doubles. Though on trump hands (outside the Ear, eye, hand, leg. He was series, we are struggling to this occasion she has good 15-17 range) with one club. prescribed antihistamine, avoid relegation this time. clubs and a strong hand, We have now started playing which does not seem to have This is the last match of the the double would usually transfer responses to the one made any difference. season. It is quite exciting, be more takeout orientated. club opening. I think the though I am afraid it does I am a bit stuck and decide change is excellent but it has not rival the football league. to try 4NT, which I intend needed a lot of work for our Tuesday We play Jones tonight. If to show a hand with more ageing brains to take it all Briony has her second his- we beat them 16-4 we are than one place to play (she in. I would say we have been tory exam this morning. I OK. We do not. We are 2 can easily have four hearts). practising online for four take her to school just be- IMPs short (and I played She closes proceedings with or five hours a week for the fore lunch and then go off a 1NT contract so badly to a leap to 6♠ and I do not past two or three months. to meet some of my travel- lose 5 IMPs). We are also think I can really bid on. This means that we have had guide colleagues for lunch. OK if de Botton (one of the While perhaps that 6♠ bid the side benefit of practis- I also pop into the office to best teams) beats Essex (one is a little premature, even if ing many other things too. meet a couple of new folk of the worst) heavily. They she bids 5♣ and I bid 6♦, it is Let us just hope it all brings who until now I have only do not. In fact, they lose. hard for us to bid the grand benefits in Dublin. known via email. Thus, it all looks hopeless. slam (7NT) that they bid in We work all morning and Back to school to pick However, we are rescued the other room where the then Briony and I have lunch Briony up and we sort by Huggins (the team ly- opening bid was 2♣. Is that together. She thinks she has out another set of kitchen ing bottom) beating Martin a 2♣ opener? Not for me – I done enough revision and cupboards before supper. (one of the teams not too far am with Nicola on that one. wants a break. She suggests ahead of us) 19-1. Phew! We Later I hear of at least one that we should spring-clean live to fight another season. match where East/West did the kitchen. I am the big- Wednesday The boards are quite excit- worse (much worse) by bid- gest slob in the world, which I get up early and manage ing. We start with a bit of a ding to 7♦. They had no op- is why it constantly amazes another of my week’s three disaster, but our opponents position bidding and this me that I have managed to gym sessions. Then I go and make it very difficult. was the sequence:

Page 46 Seven Days continued the garden is not too bad it gets a bit late and you want but the patio is terrible. The to stop you can. Moreover, Dealer West. Game All. weather now is wonderful so after each two-board round, ♠ J 4 for sure we will all want to the boards are dead so peo- ♥ A 7 3 be outside in the early eve- ple can talk about them ♦ A J 10 8 5 West North East South nings. So, rather pleased to amongst themselves. ♣ Q 10 2 1♠ Pass 2♦ Pass have an unexpected couple After dinner, while Rod- ♠ A 8 6 5 2 ♠ 7 3♠ Pass 4♦ Pass of hours, Briony and I whizz ney is scoring, we have des- ♥ 9 5 N ♥ K 10 8 6 4 2 W E 4♥ Pass 4NT Pass off to our local nursery to sert and cheese. The scoring ♦ 4 S ♦ Q 9 6 5♥ Pass 5NT Pass buy some bedding plants, does involve quite a lot of ♣ K J 9 8 4 ♣ 6 5 3 7♦! All Pass and then set to weeding and adding up – no computers ♠ K Q 10 9 3 planting. Just as we finish, or bridgemates here. Even- ♥ Q J That 7♦ bid was seriously the gardener turns up. tually, Rodney announces ♦ K 7 3 2 misjudged. If partner has the winner: Rodney. Two ♣ A 7 ♦A-K-Q-x-x-x and the ♥A, world champions finish in West can count thirteen Saturday the bottom two places – one tricks in no-trumps (three There is quite a lot to do to- of them was me and I feel West North East South spades, two hearts, six dia- day as there are going to be I have an excuse, but the Pass 1♦ Pass 1♠ monds and two clubs). Of 12 of us for dinner followed other … my lips are sealed. Pass 1NT Pass 2♦ course, here he was pun- by bridge this evening, but Nicola finishes below her Pass 2NT Pass 3♦ ished and the club ruff beat I did as much as I could husband (aided for a few Pass 3♥ Pass 3♠ the grand slam. yesterday, so everything is rounds by Briony) who has Pass 4♠ All Pass more or less under control. not played duplicate before. After a late, light breakfast After the ♦1 opening, South Thursday I send Barry and our guests can see that either 4♠ or Both children have the same out – they are going for a Sunday 5♦ could easily be a better maths exam this morning. walk around Hughenden After a cooked breakfast contract than 3NT, if North I deliver them safely and and having lunch out – so Barry, Rodney and Lorraine is weak in either clubs or then have a couple of hours Briony and I can get on with set off to do some kite flying hearts. In any event, 4♠ online with Nicola. We are cooking and setting the ta- – Barry’s ancient Golf con- looks to be a perfectly doing some entertaining at ble, etc. Guests arrive at 6.30 vertible certainly comes into acceptable contract. the weekend so after I pick and we again have drinks in its own in this glorious sum- I decide that I want to lead Briony up we go to Waitrose our tidy garden before din- mer weather – while John a club, but am a bit anxious to do a food shop. In the ner. There is a mild panic and I set off for TGR’s in about leading the eight. I do afternoon, I have an online when I realise that I forgot London where we are going not want Nicola to refuse teaching session and spend to put the onions in for the to play against each other to play an honour because the rest of the day cooking, last stage of cooking the in a women versus seniors she thinks I have only small tidying and cleaning. crispy, slow-cooked belly practice match. cards. Thus, I choose to lead pork, but we put them in We (the women) are 8 the four. Declarer plays the the microwave for ten min- down after 16 boards, 37 queen, which wins the trick, Friday utes, add some red wine and down after 32 boards, but and starts on trumps – I Briony’s last exam. After some Bisto, put them back 1 up (actually we make it 4 duck the first, win the sec- dropping her at school, I go for a couple more minutes but cannot be bothered to ond and play another club to to the gym and then home and no-one notices. argue) after 48: very satisfy- declarer’s ace. With spades for a bit of work before pick- After the main course, we ing. This is one of our gains 5-1, he is going to have to ing her up again. I should play some bridge: a three- in the final set. guess diamonds. He draws have an afternoon session table individual. Briony has Our other pair, Heather all the trumps and, after a lot with new Scottish clients made up the boards for me and Nevena, play a style of thought, gets diamonds Tony and John, but John using TOPS. You can buy whereby they open one club wrong. He still has the heart cannot manage to get on to sets of hands that have come on all hands that look like finesse in reserve, but as that BBO so eventually we aban- from previous high-level a weak no-trump (unless is wrong, he has to go down. don it for another day. pairs’ events. You play the they have a five-card major). Afterwards a whole crowd I suddenly realise what a boards and then can com- So for them this board is of us go out for a curry – terrible state our garden is pare how you did with the routine: 1♣ – 1♠ – 1NT good meal but terrible ser- in. I do have a gardener who frequency charts that actu- – 2♦ (checkback) – 2NT – vice, so much so that we re- keeps most of it at bay but ally occurred in the event. 3NT, and the game makes fuse to pay the 15% service the weather has been so bad The advantage of this is in comfort on a heart lead. they added to the bill. that he has only been once that you are all playing the In the other room, though, Tired now, it seems a long this year. The main body of boards simultaneously, so if the opening bid is 1♦… drive home… ■

Page 47 BRIDGE BERNARD If undelivered or unwanted kindly return to Ryden Grange, Knaphill, Surrey, GU21 2TH MAGEE

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