Number One Hundred and Twenty-Nine September 2013 Bernard Magee’s Acol Bidding Quiz BRIDGEYou are West in the auctions below, playing ‘Standard Acol’ with a weak no-trump (12-14 points) and 4-card majors.

1. Dealer West. Love All. 4. Dealer East. Love All. 7. Dealer North. Game All. 10. Dealer West. Love All. ♠ A K Q J 8 7 6 5 ♠ K 7 6 5 ♠ 9 8 7 ♠ K Q 4 3 2 ♥ 9 8 N ♥ Q 3 2 N ♥ 4 3 N ♥ K Q 9 N ♦ J W E ♦ K 8 7 6 W E ♦ J 7 6 5 2 W E ♦ A 6 5 W E S S S S ♣ 3 2 ♣ 4 2 ♣ A 4 3 ♣ J 2

West North East South West North East South West North East South West North East South ? 1♠ Pass 1NT Dbl Pass 1♠ Pass 1NT Pass ? ? ?

2. Dealer South. Love All. 5. Dealer North. Love All. 8. Dealer West. Love All. 11. Dealer East. Love All. ♠ 6 5 ♠ K Q 7 4 ♠ K Q 9 8 7 ♠ 3 2

♥ K J 3 N ♥ 3 N ♥ K Q 2 N ♥ 6 2 N ♦ A Q 7 4 W E ♦ J 10 8 6 5 2 W E ♦ K 4 W E ♦ J 4 2 W E ♣ A 9 6 5 S ♣ K 9 S ♣ K Q 6 S ♣ K Q 8 7 3 2 S

West North East South West North East South West North East South West North East South Pass 1♥ 1NT Pass 1♠ Pass 4♠ Pass 1♥ Pass 1NT Pass 3♥ Pass ? ? 1NT Pass 2NT Pass ? ?

3. Dealer East. Love All. 6. Dealer East. Game Alll 9. Dealer East. Love All. 12. Dealer North. Love All. ♠ 7 6 ♠ J 2 ♠ A K 8 7 6 ♠ A 9 2 ♥ A 8 4 2 ♥ 10 7 6 5 ♥ A J 10 8 ♥ A 8 7 6 N N N N ♦ A 6 5 3 W E ♦ 8 7 5 W E ♦ 7 W E ♦ A J 5 4 W E ♣ Q 8 2 S ♣ A K Q 4 S ♣ Q J 3 S ♣ 8 6 S

West North East South West North East South West North East South West North East South 1♠ Pass 1♠ 1NT 3♦ 3♥ 1♣ 1♥ Pass ? ? ? ?

Answers on page 10 Answers on page 16 Answers on page 18 Answers on page 22 BERNARD MAGEE Boxed Sets of six DVDs

Series 1 Series 2 Series 3 1 Ruffing for Extra Tricks 7 Leads 13 Hand Evaluation This seminar deals with declarer’s Bernard takes you through all the Going beyond just the point-count use of ruffing to generate extra basic leads and the importance of is important if you want to improve. tricks and then looks at how the your choice of lead. If you start to Reaching 3NT on 24 HCP and making defenders might counteract this. think not just about your hand, but it; and avoiding 3NT on 26 HCP when about your partner’s too, then you there are only seven or eight tricks. 2 Competitive Tricks will get much better results. This seminar focuses on competitive 14 Pre-Empting auctions from the perspective of the 8 Losing Trick Count The art of pre-empting is so important overcalling side to start with and A method of hand evaluation for in the modern game. Understanding then from the perspective of the when you find a fit. Bernard deals the right types of hand to bid up opening side in the second part. with the basics of the losing trick on and realising the importance of count then looks at advanced position and vulnerability. 3 Making the Most methods to hone your bidding. of High Cards 15 Splinter & Cue-Bids This seminar helps declarer to use 9 Making a Plan Take your slam bidding to another his high cards more carefully and as Declarer level. Splinter bids are a vital tool to then looks at how defenders should Bernard explains how to make a plan have in your bidding armoury and try care for their precious high cards. then expands on how to make the your hand at Italian style cue-bidding. most of your long suits. The first half 4 Identifying deals with no-trumps, the second with 16 Avoidance & Bidding Slams suit contracts. As declarer, an important tactic is The first half of this seminar is about to be in control of the defenders: identifying when a slam might be on 10 Responding to 1NT avoiding a particular defender getting – one of the hardest topics to teach. This seminar deals with Transfers the lead. As a defender, you can try to The second half covers some of the and Stayman in detail. The 1NT make sure the right player gets the techniques used to bid slams. opening comes up frequently, so lead at the right time. having a good, accurate system of 5 Play & Defence responses is paramount. 17 Pairs Play & Defence of 1NT Contracts Duplicate Pairs is the game most of This seminar looks at the most 11 Signals & Discards us play and getting used to the tactics common and yet most feared This seminar deals with Count, will make a lot of difference to your of contracts: 1NT. The first half Attitude and Suit-preference signals: performance. Making more overtricks looks at declaring the contract and aiming to get you working as a and making sure you do not give the second part puts us in the partnership in defence. away tricks as a defender. defenders’ seats. 12 Endplays 18 Thinking Defence 6 Doubling & Defence Bernard takes you through the basics By far the hardest aspect of bridge, against Doubled Contracts of the technique before showing some but if you can improve your defence The first half of this seminar magical hands where you take extra your results will quickly improve. explores penalty doubles and the tricks from defenders. In the second Learn how to think through the second half discusses the defence half, Bernard looks at how to avoid defence and get your mind in gear for against doubled contracts. being endplayed as a defender. the decisions that await you.

Individual DVDs. £25 each. Individual DVDs. £25 each. Individual DVDs. £25 each. Boxed Set of 6. £100. Boxed Set of 6. £100. Boxed Set of 6. £100.

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 FEATURES 8 Bridge Events with 1 Bidding Quiz Bernard Magee Mr Bridge 10 Bridge Events at by Bernard Magee AT THE BRIDGE 5 Mr Bridge The Inn on the Prom Ryden Grange, Knaphill, 9 The Diaries of 11 Digital Hearing Aid ROYAL KENZ Surrey GU21 2TH Wendy Wensum Information Service TUNISIA 13 Duplicate Bridge ( 01483 489961 10 Bidding Quiz Answers (1-3) by Bernard Magee Rules Simplified Two-week e-mail: 15 Rubber / Chicago [email protected] 12 David Stevenson half-board Answers Your Questions Bridge Events duplicate website: 15 Declarer Play Quiz 15 Bridge Events at: www.mrbridge.co.uk by David Huggett Denham Grove bridge holiday The Olde Barn Hotel 16 Bidding Quiz Answers Publisher and 16 Mr Bridge Playing Cards Managing Editor (4-6) by Bernard Magee 17 Fischer Future Heat Mr Bridge 18 Bidding Quiz Answers (7-9) by Bernard Magee 18 Bridge Events at Bridge Consultant 20 Defence Quiz Cheltenham Bernard Magee by Julian Pottage Regency Hotel 21 Chicago or 4-Deal Bridge 19 The Mobility Technical Consultant by David Stevenson Furniture Company Tony Gordon 22 Bidding Quiz Answers 20 Mr Bridge (10-12) by Bernard Magee Christmas & New Year Typesetting & Design 2013/2014 Ruth Edmondson 27 Declarer Play Answers by David Huggett 22 Five-Card Majors with Bernard Magee Proof Readers 28 Julian Pottage Tony & Jan Richards Answers Your Questions 23 S R Designs Bridge Tables Catrina Shackleton 31 Bridge and Travel Tip 23 Bathing Solutions Richard Wheen 33 Defence Quiz Answers Hugh Williams by Julian Pottage 24 2014 Mediterranean 3-17 November 2013 Cruises with Tony and Jan Richards 34 The Baron and the Office Manager Voyages to Antiquity Forces of Darkness £769* Rachel Everett by Dick Atkinson 26 Tutorial Software and QPlus 23 Feb – 9 March 2014 37 Readers’ Letters Bernard Magee Events & Cruises 27 Begin Bridge 42 Catching Up ( 01483 489961 with Bernard Magee £799* by Sally Brock Rosie Baker 32 Bridge Events at: 43 Seven Days 30 March – 13 April 2014 Jessica Galt Elstead Hotel by Sally Brock Host to be advised Megan Riccio Blunsdon House Hotel 47 Jeremy Dhondy Says £899* Sophie Pierrepont 32 Tips for Better Bridge Use the Rule of Fifteen 36 Bridge Events at: *per person half-board sharing Clubs & Charities a twin-bedded room and is ADVERTISEMENTS Ardington Hotel inclusive of bridge fees. Single Maggie Axtell Chatsworth House supplement £6 per night. [email protected] 2 Bernard Magee DVDs These prices are based on air 36 Better Hand Evaltion travel from Heathrow to Tunis. 3 Tunisia 2013/2014 Flights from other UK airports Address Changes 37 Stamps are available at a supplement. 4 Mr Bridge Prices for seven-night stays are ( 38 Eric Hill – Kalinda 01483 485342 Just Duplicate Bridge available on application. Elizabeth Bryan 39 Charity Events Pay £70 per fortnight per person 6 Denham Grove extra and have a pool-facing [email protected] 40 Global Travel Insurance room, tea & coffee making Filming Event facilities, bath robe and a bowl of 45 Mr Bridge 2014 seasonal fruit. All correspondence should 7 Mail Order Form Bridge Player’s Diaries be addressed to Mr Bridge. Cut-out Form These holidays have been 46 Eric Hill – Joanna organised for Mr Bridge by Tunisia Please make sure that all 8 Bridge Event First Limited, ATOL 5933. letters and e-mails carry Booking Form 48 QPlus 10 full postal addresses and telephone numbers. DETAILS & BOOKINGS The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. ( 01483 489961

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Full Board – No Single Supplement Booking Form on page 8. Please note there are no seminars, set hands or prizes at these events. SUBSCRIPTIONS QPLUS WEB PAGE FORUM KNOCKING KNEES www.mrbridge.co.uk This month sees the World I was in my late forties Computer–Bridge Ned Paul answers questions when I took part in my first Championship in Bali, quickly and succinctly on duplicate. It was fine until Indonesia. It should be a my behalf. Do use this play was due to start. Then frenetic battle and ever- helpful service. my knees began to knock hopeful Johannes Leber and I could not control will be there with QPlus. 2014 DIARIES them until the sixth board. Luckily, I had been seated His production model is Next year’s diaries are now south, so I had no need to like a robust saloon-car in stock. All colours are move. I had never before that has to compete with available, see order form. experienced such nervous- experimental models that ness but soon felt confident will never be used on the JUST DUPLICATE enough to go to my first public road. But, head up so-called ‘no fear’ congress, If like me, you enjoy being and shoulders back Hans when it happened all over able to pick up and put and good luck QPlus. down a magazine as and again. So, trust me, it is just Meanwhile, here are some when, you will need to a rite of passage. With one more interesting hands: take up a subscription to of my wonderful teams to support you, it is a great BRIDGE as I am having 4810-09 3390-04 £50 to cut the circulation of way for you to start your 9101-14 5031-01 new life. free copies. 3059-01 6755-13 Advertisers and sponsors Those readers who would GOFFIES STAMPS have reduced their like to buy QPlus now, OFF contributions, so my life in should send £92 and receive The £50 off offer, on all Just bridge has really turned the current version, QPlus Duplicate Events, is full circle and I find myself 10. I promise to send you repeated again for 2014, back at ‘start’. Another new QPlus 11 as soon as it is subject to availability, for a challenge to relish. ready. Both versions are limited number of places. self-contained products, so If you want to save on I hope that you will sign up you will be able to give This is primarily to ensure postage you should try for the journey. Believe me, QPlus 10 to a friend once that an event actually takes Clive Goff’s discounted you ain’t seen nothing yet. you receive your copy of place. The fun in a stamp service. QPlus 11. duplicate lies in the Value supplied in two GOING FORWARD numbers. It is offered, as stamps, combined to make If you are looking to last year, below cost and Having advertised for new up the 50p 2nd class rate, upgrade from an earlier payment is taken in full contributors and feature 2nd class to you at 41p. 1st version of QPlus, just with the booking, by writers, I have lately class 60p, only 50p to you. return the disc with its cheque or debit card. Offer appointed David Huggett instruction booklet and a Available in lots of 100. closes 30 November 2013. ( as commissioning editor. cheque for £43. 0208 422 4906. If you have not yet heard Secondly, it is for the [email protected] from me, please ring OTHER TRADE–INS promotion of duplicate ( 02380 631734 or email: bridge. Singles should come OCTOBER CRUISE [email protected] I have an offer for those and try duplicate. It is less wanting to change their nerve-wracking and I have a clear vision of tutorial software or QPlus. embarrassing than at a what I want to include in See back cover for details. local club, as you will make BRIDGE to consolidate its your inevitable faux-pas in growing success. That BRIDGE BARON the presence of total most readers love it, I am The 4 October sailing of strangers. Likewise, new left in no doubt. However, I stock the latest version of Aegean Odyssey from partnerships can come and some welcome a travel tip Bridge Baron, number 23, Venice to Rome goes experiment with the same and some do not and if you as it is the best AppleMac without us as Mrs Bridge degree of anonymity. are an experienced player, compatible Acol playing happily is sufficiently I suggest you give program. £63. To trade-in Ahead of publication of this recovered to be able to beginner’s corner a miss an earlier version, send one offer, I have written to have her knee operation when the new series starts in with a cheque for £25 those already booked for instead. Still some as it is obviously not and you will receive Bridge any of these dates, to offer availability for this lovely intended for you. Baron 23 by return. £50 off on the same terms. voyage. Ring for details.

Page 5 2014 FILMING FESTIVE BERNARD BERNARD MAGEE The next six films in the We are filling up for the Better Bridge with Bernard festive season earlier than at Magee series are to be shot usual this year. As a result, in the course of an event at we have decided to put on a Denham Grove Denham Grove in January. Twixmas 2-night event and near Uxbridge, Bucks, UB9 5DG. See advert for topics. to use a location in the The course, which includes north west of England. three nights full board, Inn on the Prom, Lytham 10-13 January 2014 starts on Friday morning at 27-29 December 2013 10.15am and ends with a Signals and Discards £299 full board lazy Monday breakfast. Bernard Magee £245 (Special early booking price) Those coming a distance may wish to book for the FESTIVE ME Thursday overnight stay. I am looking forward to Topics £60 per person, dinner, bed saying hello to everyone at and breakfast. the New Year’s Eve Gala SACRIFICING This is extra to the special Dinner at Denham Grove. An exciting aspect of the auction is outbidding your early booking price of £299 I hope to stay on for a game opponents and going down, but gaining by doing so. per person. No single of bridge as I did last year. Learning to bid more aggressively and make the best supplement. However, full The late breakfast was a of your cards will enhance both your scores and your splendid treat. enjoyment levels. payment must be made at the time of booking. TRUMP CONTROL TO CLEAR Handling the play of the hand when trumps break badly is CHATSWORTH an important attribute: playing calmly and using a variety HOTEL PRIZE QUIZ of tactics to pave the way to success. This problem has been sent WEAK TWOS in by Mike Gurney of Holt, It is important to bid more in the modern game and weak Norfolk. The answer and twos are an important choice for the competitive player. They allow for pre-emptive and accurate bidding. the winner will be published in the December DEFENSIVE PLAN issue. Entries should be Twin packs of my lovely Looking at your own hand, then at dummy and envisaging sent in before 30.09.2013. premium quality playing how partner’s hand will allow you to make a plan for the The prize is a room for one cards, in a tasteful gold- defence. By having a framework to make your way across or two at any of my coloured drop-lid box, have you will hopefully learn to identify various defensive weekend events at the been reduced to two for £12 situations and solve the problems you face. Chatsworth Hotel, in 2014. and that includes the p&p. FURTHER IN TO THE AUCTION You are West playing SO SORRY The first two bids of an auction are usually easy, but standard Acol and beyond that the complications increase. Learn about your vulnerable. Several of the adverts in various options and how to ‘talk’ to your partner during this issue have coupons. If the bidding. you do not wish to deface IMPROVING BRIDGE MEMORY ♠ 8 7 5 3 your magazine, ring my ♥ 2 Remembering every card is a dream for most of us. N office and I will fill in and ♦ 9 5 4 2 W E However, learn ways in which to remember the important S post your coupon for you. ♣ 8 4 3 2 things. What was the first discard or how many trumps All good wishes are left out? Mr Bridge

1 West East 6 seminar sessions with Bernard 2♣ STOP PRESS 2 2♦ 2♥ 6 sessions of supervised play I am hoping to promote 2NT 3♣ bridge parties for one or Contact Mr Bridge to book your place ? or for further details: ( 01483 489961 two weeks in Croatia. Having given two Please register your 1Filmed 2Not with Bernard Magee. ‘negatives’ what should interest if you would West bid now? like further details. ■

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Page 7 ✄ BRIDGE BRIDGE EVENTS BREAKS with Bernard Magee NOVEMber continued ♦ Full-board ♦ Two seminars* ♦ All rooms with ♦ Two supervised 15-17 Chatsworth en-suite facilities play sessions* Hotel ♦ No single supplement ♦ Four bridge sessions** £245 Bidding Distributional Please book ..... places for me at £...... per person, Hands

Single .... Double .... Twin .... 22-24 Blunsdon Chatsworth Hotel House Hotel Name of Hotel/Centre...... Worthing BN11 3DU £245 Better Defence

Date(s) ...... October 2013 JANUARY 2014 Mr/Mrs/Miss ...... 11-13 Blunsdon 10-13 Denham Grove NEW Address...... House Hotel £299 Filming Weekend £245 Splinters ...... and Cue Bids

Postcode ...... 18-20 Chatsworth Hotel ( ...... £245 Playing & Defending 1NT Special requirements (these cannot be guaranteed, but we will do our best to oblige). 25-27 Queensferry Hotel ...... £245 Finding Slams Queensferry Hotel Please give the name(s) of all those covered by this booking. North Queensferry KY11 1HP NOVEMber 2013 ...... 17-19 Chatsworth 8-10 Olde Barn Hotel Hotel Please send a non-returnable deposit of £50 per person per place by £245 Better Leads cheque, payable to Mr Bridge. An invoice for the balance will be sent £245 Better Leads with your booking confirmation. On receipt of your final payment, & Switches & Switches 28 days before the event, a programme and full details will be sent together with a map. Cancellations are not refundable. Should you March 2014 require insurance, you should contact your own insurance broker.

21-23 Inn on the Prom £245 Doubles

April 2014 Expiry: ...... CVV...... Issue No...... (CVV is the last 3 numbers on the signature strip) 4-6 Chatsworth Blunsdon House Hotel Mr Bridge, Ryden Grange, Knaphill, Surrey GU21 2TH. Hotel Blunsdon, Swindon SN26 7AS £245 Finding Slams ( 01483 489961 e-mail: [email protected] website: www.holidaybridge.com Full Board. No Single Supplement. *on tutorial weekends only. **6 sessions on rubber/Chicago events. See Adjacent Booking Form. Please note: Just Bridge events contain no seminars and do not award prizes. ✄

Page 8 The Diaries of Wendy Wensum Episode 17: A Sicilian Jaunt Part 1: Only the Volcano Roared

he success of the holiday in conclusion with additional brandies at Precision-style strong bid of one club: Rhodes in the company of Millie’s insistence. Spouse, Millie and Justin led to In the fine sunshine on the following West North East South Tthe four of us convening at Norwich morning we breakfasted on the terrace Mary Spouse Amos Wendy International Airport for our after- overlooking the swimming pool and Pass 1♣ (16+) 1♦ noon flight to Catania in Sicily for a surrounding palm trees. Afterwards Pass 2♦ 2♠ 3♦ week of bridge and sight-seeing. After we explored the grounds with their All Pass boarding the plane, there was a delay formal gardens and sporting and due to a sudden downpour of rain leisure facilities where Justin and I won the spade lead with the ace and which flooded the runway. Millie’s Spouse spontaneously decided to play removed trumps. Fortunately the suggestion to the stewardess that each tennis. Millie and I thought a massage clubs were 2-2 so I lost one spade trick, passenger be issued with a sponge to in the hotel spa was a better option two hearts and a club. The contract mop up the water was not well re- and left the men to their game. By of three diamonds made exactly for ceived. As a result, service in our part the afternoon we were ready for our a near top our way. As Amos left the of the plane was minimal so that when first session of bridge. As we entered table and headed energetically for a we finally touched down in Sicily, Mil- the lounge, Millie staring about her refill at the bar, I remarked to Mary lie was surprisingly sober. As twilight observed, ‘Gosh, it is dark in here.’ that he was very spritely for his age. turned to dusk, the coach bearing us ‘Try taking off your sun glasses,’ She agreed, adding that he had become to our destination near Cefalu on the I suggested sympathetically. The hyperactive since being accidently northern coast passed a fiery Mount competition was duplicate pairs, and struck by a police Taser at a senior Etna. Its vividly glowing volcanic it emerged later that both our pairings citizens’ rally protesting against police plume spouted dramatically upwards achieved good results on this board brutality. I assumed she was joking, in the fading light. proving that ordinary part-score but I’m still not sure. From the front of the coach in the hands can be important. Both sides When Millie and Justin played the increasing darkness the travel rep were vulnerable with North as dealer. same board as East/West they were droned on detailing finer points Our opponents were the married involved in this sequence: concerning legends from Roman couple who had played tennis against and Greek mythologies. In the Justin and Spouse earlier in the day. West North East South inevitable intellectual section of the Apparently Amos, although in his Justin Millie coach, an earnest debate ensued on eighties, was still very agile on the Pass 1♠ 2♦ the implications of these similarities doubles court. Would he be so active Pass 3♦ 3♥ All Pass and differences in a post-modernist at the table? world. Fortunately by this time the Luckily for Millie the trumps came loud speaker in our part of the coach down in two rounds. She lost the first had stopped working. I happened to ♠ 9 7 2 two diamond tricks, and later a club mention this to Spouse. ‘That’s odd; it ♥ Q 10 and a spade to make the contact for a was OK earlier,’ he noted. ‘Well it isn’t ♦ A 8 5 good score the other way. We were all now,’ confirmed Millie with a steely ♣ K 8 7 5 4 very pleased with the results from that glint in her eyes. ‘Has Millie sabotaged ♠ 10 8 6 ♠ K Q J 4 3 board, but neither of our partnerships it?’ I inquired of Justin, suspicious of a ♥ 6 5 4 3 2 N ♥ A K 9 7 performed particularly well and we ♦ J 3 2 W E ♦ 10 9 loose wire dangling from the luggage S finished towards the bottom of the rack. Grinning like a Cheshire cat, ♣ 10 3 ♣ A J field. We knew we had to improve and he shrugged his shoulders. ‘It can be ♠ A 5 a chilled bottle of the popular local rosé plugged back later,’ he informed me. ♥ J 8 was ordered to get us in the right frame ‘No problem,’ I mouthed, and slept ♦ K Q 7 6 4 of mind for the contests ahead. To peacefully for the rest of the journey. ♣ Q 9 6 2 ensure we were all on message Millie The hotel had laid on a splendid ordered another round, this time gin supper for us on our late arrival. We and tonics. With a second session of enjoyed the excellent meal with a Spouse passed as North and Amos bridge looming, I wasn’t sure these bottle of local wine supplemented at its opened the bidding with an artificial tactics were a winning option. ■

Page 9 Answers to Bernard Magee’s Bidding Quizzes 1-3 on the Cover

shows a strong hand with at least five room. Your long suits are so poor, you 1. Dealer West. Love All. hearts (playing transfers the bid would do best to downgrade the hand and bid ♠ A K Q J 8 7 6 5 ♠ 9 3 promise six hearts). It gives partner three 1NT. ♥ 9 8 N ♥ Q 5 choices: 3NT, 4♥ or make a slam try if Evaluating the hand as 9 points is ♦ J W E ♦ 10 7 6 4 3 you fit well for hearts. about right. S ♣ 3 2 ♣ A 9 5 4 This last option is very important – you Your partner has 15 HCP and will pass must assess your hand – if you like hearts your response. You have 25 points be- and have plenty of high cards, then you tween you, but your bare hand will not West North East South should encourage partner to look for a bear fruit in the play. On most days, you ? slam. will make seven or eight tricks. To make The 3NT response says, I do not like nine tricks, you will need two finesses to 4♠. You have eight playing tricks, but hearts; 4♥ says, I like hearts but I have work and the opponents unable to make you do not have a strong hand – do not nothing special. Any other response three heart tricks: perhaps a 10% chance. consider a strong two-level opening. should be a cuebid agreeing hearts as Bidding is not always just a case of When you have a long suit, you should trumps. counting points, it can be looking be- evaluate your hand’s strength against Here, you have good heart support yond that and evaluating your hand fully. an opponent’s contract and then decide and hold three key-cards (2 aces and the Intermediate cards (tens and nines) and whether to open pre-emptively or strongly. king of trumps) so you must express your the way your cards work together, make Imagine you were defending against excitement by bidding 4♣. This shows a lot of difference. When honours are 4♥: how many tricks would you expect to heart support and club control. by themselves, they are weakened and make? Your slam try is enough to encourage when long suits have just one high card, One, if you are lucky and nobody is East and he bids key-card Blackwood. they have less potential. void in spades. Your 5♠ response allows him to settle for Finishing in 1NT with these hands will Compare one trick with eight certain 6♥. usually get you a great score, whilst most tricks in spades and the point should be If you simply respond 4♥, East will pass are going one or two off in 3NT. ■ clear. Whenever the difference between – his hand’s potential depends on how it your declaring potential and your de- fits with yours. So it is up to you to show fensive potential is very large, then you your excitement. should consider pre-empting. The Inn With a solid eight-card suit, you must on the Prom open 4♠ because you have too much trick taking power to open just 3♠. You 3. Dealer East. Love All. St Annes-on-Sea FY8 1LU will go one off in 4♠, but that is a lot bet- ♠ 7 6 ♠ K Q 8 5 ter than allowing the opponents to make ♥ A 8 4 2 N ♥ 9 7 W E eleven tricks in hearts. ♦ A 6 5 3 ♦ K Q J 8 S ♣ Q 8 2 ♣ A 7 4

2. Dealer South. Love All West North East South ♠ 6 5 ♠ A 7 2 1♠ Pass ♥ K J 3 N ♥ A Q 10 9 5 4 ? 27-29 December 2013 W E Bernard Magee ♦ A Q 7 4 ♦ 8 S Signals & Discards £245 ♣ A 9 6 5 ♣ K Q 2 1NT. You have a bare 10 points with each of the high cards isolated and a 21-23 March 2014 small doubleton in your partner’s suit, so Bernard Magee West North East South the hands are not fitting particularly well. Doubles £245 Pass You have three choices: 1NT, 2♦ or 1NT Pass 3♥ Pass 2NT? Full Board ? 2♥ is not an option for it promises No Single Supplement five cards. A direct 2NT response is out Booking Form on page 8. 4♣. A direct response of 3♥ to 1NT of vogue because it takes up too much

Page 10 All you need to know about hearing aids is in the world’s best Consumers Guide and it’s now FREE Comparisons of over 500 hearing aids. Essential for anyone who has a hearing aid or is considering one. It is invaluable. Sent by Freepost In the last ten years, new technology has created a maze of choices in the selection of hearing aids. With more people than ever using hearing aids, it is essential that you have a reference to what hearing aids are about. There is far more to it than buying a pair of glasses. The introduction of digital chip techniques has brought more features than existed under the old days of analogue hearing aids. The options that come with a hearing aid – circuit configurations, channels, feedback cancellations and more – can be puzzling to say the least. The Consumers Guide To Hearing Aids is an A4 colour guide with 32 thorough pages which tell you everything you Was £5.99 now FREE! need to know about hearing aids. To get a FREE copy of the Consumers Guide to Hearing Aids now just: It is the A-Z of Hearing Aids and can help you select the specific (Please quote make and model which is best suited for your hearing loss. ref: A412CD) It explains what you spend your money on and can save your FREEPHONE hard-earned cash before you buy a hearing aid. It gives you comparisons of hearing aids by brand, circuit option and model. 0800 074 3960 Lines open 8am-8pm Weekdays. 10am-4pm Weekends. This offer is only available to those who have a genuine hearing problem and is therefore limited to one copy per household. or to receive it by post fill in and send the coupon below or request details online at www.dhais.co.uk The Contents of the Guide Please post me FREE Consumers Guide to Hearing Aids by FREEPOST. H Explains if you need a hearing aid and what it can do for you. Tick if pensioner. Scottish, N.I., Eire & I.o.M. enquiries welcome. * H 24 Worldwide Brands. PLEASE COMPLETE ALL SECTIONS MARKED IN BLOCK CAPITALS. ! Whether you need one or two hearing aids. * H Mr/Mrs/Miss ______H Digital Hearing Aid Technology explained. * Address ______H What is Directional-Microphone Hearing Aid Technology. ______H Entry Level Digital Hearing Aids. * Postcode * D.O.B D D M M Y Y H Basic Digital Hearing Aids. * Telephone/ Mobile Number (we cannot despatch without all details) H The FM Listening Advantage. H Advanced Digital Hearing Aids. H Premium Digital Hearing Aids. Mobile Has an excellent section on common questions and answers. Email H ! Phone or send coupon today (No stamp required) to: H Why Open Ear Hearing Aids are satisfying customers. Digital Hearing Aid Information Service (A412CD) Definitions of Hearing Aid Terms. H Freepost LON15651 London, SE1 1BS The information we will send you will be from our authorised associate for your area. If you do not wish to receive And More additional information by mail, phone, email or otherwise please advise. Certain hearing aids may not always be ... available in all areas and may not help all types of hearing loss. David Stevenson answers your questions on Laws and Ethics Revoke Penalty Too Harsh?

We had an ing the contract now one much better result if I opponents called the unusual incident off. The revoke did N/S a had or would that be director and insisted Qon this hand: huge disservice. Should deemed to be unethical? that the offending player they have been further Dennis Law, should make a jump bid. penalised? Nailsworth, Glos. The director ruled Dealer North. Love All. Tony Cowling, Berkshire. that no offence had ♠ A 6 5 It is perfectly legal been committed and ♥ A K 9 2 Of course. The to let an oppo- to continue play. I can ♦ 3 2 absolute basic rule A nent revoke and to find no reference to this ♣ Q 8 6 2 A of bridge is you take advantage. It is also in the yellow book of ♠ 10 N ♠ 9 7 2 have to follow suit, so it is ethical, insofar as the laws rules. What is the of- W E ♥ Q 6 5 S ♥ 10 7 4 3 very reasonable that there permit you to take such ficial ruling on this? ♦ K J 10 9 8 6 5 ♦ A Q 4 should be penalties. Players advantage as you can of George Nicoll, ♣ A 5 ♣ J 7 4 who revoke should expect opponents’ infractions. Woodhall Spa, Lincs. ♠ K Q J 8 4 3 to suffer. If their side wins However, having said that, ♥ J 8 either the revoke trick or a many players would not do Any call may be ♦ 7 subsequent one, then they so. There is an approach I changed if it has ♣ K 10 9 3 will lose at least one trick. call ‘personal ethics’, which A not been made is also known as ‘active eth- and a call is made once ♣♦♥♠ ics’, which is ethics beyond the bid itself is taken out of West North East South that which the laws require. the bidding box. So a stop 1 NT Pass 2♥ At a recent club So it is reasonable, if your card without a bid may be 3♦ 3♠ 4♦ 4♠ session, the own personal ethics require withdrawn and opponents 5♦ Dbl End Qfollowing situ- you, to point out the revoke do not have the right to insist ation arose: after one before it is established. that a jump bid is made. North led the ♥K, ♥A, trick, my partner, West, But be warned. Other Often it is obvious why the then ♥2, South played led a heart and my RHO people’s personal ethics player took the stop card out. the ♥J then the ♠3, which showed out, discarding may be different from yours This is unauthorised infor- became an established a spade. After the way and if you would always mation to her partner, who revoke. He played the ♥8 the bidding had gone, I point out such a revoke, must take no advantage, but on the ♥2, West’s ♥Q thought this was odd, so you should realise that the opponents may use the winning the trick. The I said, ‘Having none?’ not everyone else will. information if they wish. director was called and whereupon RHO said, said, ‘I will come back at ‘Oh, a heart lead was it?’ ♣♦♥♠ the end of play.’ At the and promptly produced David Stevenson answers all end E/W were two off. a heart from his hand My friend was queries based on the facts supplied by the letter writer. They asked for two tricks. (in fact he had two or directing at her Neither Mr Bridge nor I said that there should three). My question is, local bridge club Q David Stevenson has any way be no penalty, but the could I have kept quiet when a member used of knowing whether those director ruled one trick and let him revoke – my the stop card, but failed facts are correct or complete. to be transferred, mak- side would have had a to make a jump bid. The

Page 12 Ask David continued it is irrelevant. So once the member of the club and not acceptable to take the defender asked the question, his partner have objected board off the table: it is not if this woke declarer up then strongly to keeping acceptable to twist the board. he must correct his revoke. boards in the middle of I think it is time you wrote A defender to Your second question the table and it creates to the club committee a no-trump is very interesting and not a most unpleasant and pointed out that the Qcontract made an one that had occurred atmosphere when newcomers are seriously unexpected switch to a to me. The laws are very arriving at our table. upsetting you with their low club when everyone poor on handling multiple He does not accept that attitude. What they want else expected him to infractions: they tend to it is the correct position is illegal, unnecessary and return a spade. Next to ignore the possibility. Many and wants to bring a it seems unreasonable play was declarer, who people think it unfair that different ruling at the for newcomers to upset revoked by playing ♠A. the defenders have a major next AGM. Our director existing members. You are The next player also penalty card and declarer is very easy going and not the one to upset the revoked, playing a low has no penalty, though this I can imagine it might atmosphere. The newcomers spade, at which point is because declarer has no prove unpopular with have already done that. the defender on lead partner to worry about. members if a definite asked, ‘having none?’ While the laws do not ruling is made. I don’t ♣♦♥♠ Since the revokes cover the situation properly want to be the one to ruin were not established, one way or another, I like the atmosphere in our I score bridge declarer withdrew the the suggested solution club and I am beginning sessions and ♠A and returned it to which seems equitable. Of to wonder whether I am Qthe results go his hand substituting a course, Law 62C1 refers right or not, or have I on the club website the club without penalty. The to a ‘non-offending side’, misinterpreted Rule 7A following day. Some- second defender also but the defenders were in the yellow book? one has challenged my corrected his revoke, non-offending in respect Personally, I do scoring a week later. as did dummy who had of declarer’s revoke. So find it very awkward What is a reasonable played the only spade in such a situation there when boards are time after which no- in his hand, without are no penalty cards. moved and as North body can question the being instructed to I get concerned when published results? do so by declarer. ♣♦♥♠ cards are sometimes Cilla Barnes, Dorking. A director was returned incorrectly to unavailable, so we would I belong to a the board. Should I just The law book says appreciate answers to duplicate bridge give way for the sake half-an-hour after these two questions: Qclub with a total of peace and quiet? A publication of the 1. Can the defender’s of 50 members. It is a Janet Jackson by email. results unless the organisers query re a possible very friendly club with decide otherwise. However, revoke apply equally to good atmosphere and The law is simple. half-an-hour is unreason- declarer even though it arguments are few. I The board must able with results published on was not made until after always elect to play A always remain in the internet. In fact, I think it his partner had played? North with my regular the middle of the table. unreasonable for any results 2. Can the leader’s partner and always try In practice, many clubs from clubs with players going partner avoid the to keep the boards in the have small tables, and home and so forth. I have normal penalty for his middle of the table, as I some people have poor always advised clubs that revoke (the card played was taught many years eyesight, so boards often results should become final becoming a major ago. Some players object do get moved. While this only at the start of the session penalty card) by invoking and move them either is generally accepted, it is one week later. Law 62 which might allow to the edge of the table him to withdraw the card or even on to the floor. he had played without Sometimes, particularly only penalty after declarer’s if I or my partner is DUPLICATE BRIDGE 95 earlier revoke? declarer, we ask that £5 Chris Pickup, Lostock, Bolton. the boards be left in the RULES SIMPLIFIED middle of the table. We (otherwise known as the Yellow Book) Declarer is required accommodate players by John Rumbelow and to correct a revoke if who have poor eyesight revised by David Stevenson A he becomes aware and try not to make a of it before it is established. big ‘thing’ about it. Available from Mr Bridge ( 01483 489961 How he becomes aware of Recently, a new

Page 13 Ask David continued due to medical or other Does the addition of The opponents have emergencies, a player an unexpected and a right to know how has to leave halfway largely unwanted round A you play each call. through a session. There invalidate the scores So if they ask about the 2♦ We play in a is no problem with full for the evening? bid, you explain it might be league in which tables but, if we have Gavin Wilson by email. one of three things. But if Qwe have one started with a half they ask about the 3♥ bid player who asks on table, we now have two The scores stand. you tell them what 3♥ shows, first lead, ‘Why did half tables. It seems The director has ie hearts, weak. There is you play that?’ and on that something should A made a mess of no other possibility now. If first discard, ‘Why did be done but, try as I it, certainly, but that does your partner has something you discard that?’ might, any way of trying not invalidate the scores. else, he has misbid. We have told him to match the two half Someone needs to explain our carding system tables results in cries of, two things to the director. ♣♦♥♠ and I know that ‘we have played these First, part of his job is to questions can be asked boards before,’ and a keep the customers informed. I have yet to find of partner when the spoiled movement. If he is playing 26 boards, either in the Laws cards are being played Is there any solution especially if players might Qor White Book an about systems, but is he to this problem? expect only 24 boards, then explicit statement that allowed to ask this? John Buckley by email. he needs to tell them so at bids should remain on Name and Address Supplied. the start of the evening. the table until a lead is No, not really. Second, custom & practice faced. By implication, He has no right Players just have govern a lot of what goes the laws and White Book whatever to ask A to sit out. It is on in a club. So to change it refer to the ‘Clarification A a player why they normally very rare. If the needs a pretty good reason. Period’ during which played a card or why they reason is medical, fair Of course, if the majority questions concerning the discarded a card. I suggest enough, but other reasons want a change or if the club bidding may be raised you agree with your partner for pairs leaving should committee require a change, and one might assume that in future you always be actively discouraged. then that is good enough. this would take place answer such a question with the bids on the table with, ‘Because I felt like it.’ ♣♦♥♠ ♣♦♥♠ – is there any definitive He does have the right statement to this effect? to know what leads and For as long Playing against Roger Grimsdick by email. discards you play, so the as I can experts, my partner of the player who Qremember, our Qpartner opened In the EBU White led or discarded can tell him club has played 24 2♦. I alerted and book, paragraph your basic leads or discards. boards per evening. when queried replied, A 1.6.2 reads, ‘At the Last night, as some ‘three-way multi.’ An end of the auction the calls ♣♦♥♠ tables were packing explanation was not should remain in place until up and preparing to requested. I bid 2♠, the opening lead has been My question is go after 24 boards, showing willingness faced and all explanations not about bridge the director (a very to play in 3♥ and my have been obtained, after Qlaws but perhaps new TD) announced partner responded 3♥. which they should be you could help me. I that we would be My RHO now wanted to returned to their boxes. If am bridge director at playing another round know which of the three the hand is passed out then a non-EBU affiliated, of two boards. options this showed. the passes are immediately friendly duplicate bridge No doubt, the scores Obviously, I knew my returned to their boxes.’ club of modest standard. on this last, unexpected partner had a weak So that is the basis We usually have 10 round were unusual. two in hearts. Do I say, in England and similar to 12 tables and play Many players were tired ‘Weak two in hearts,’ regulations apply throughout a Mitchell movement as well as surprised, and risk the remote the British Isles. It is a matter of 10 rounds with 2 and some decided to possibility of getting it of regulation, however, so or 3 boards per table ‘Pass’, despite having wrong or just explain does not appear in the law with full tables, or a biddable hands. the three options? book and is often not the Howell movement with Does the director Phil Hickman by email. case in other countries. ■ a half table and fewer have a duty to warn than 9 tables, to avoid players early on E-mail your questions on bridge laws to: a 3 board sit-out. about the number of [email protected] On rare occasions, boards to be played?

Page 14 Denham The Olde DECLARER Grove Barn Denham, Bucks, UB9 5DG Hotel PLAY Marston, Lincs NG32 2HT QUIZ by David Huggett 4-6 October – £215 (Answers on page 27) Doubles – Gary Conrad 25-27 October – £215 ou are South as declarer playing teams or rubber bridge. Finding Slams – Sandy Bell In each case, what is your play strategy? Y 10-13 Jan 2014 – £299 Filming Weekend Bernard Magee 7-9 February 2014 – £199 1. ♠ Q 10 9 3 3. ♠ A 8 6 5 3 Just Duplicate Bridge BRIDGE ♥ 8 6 4 ♥ J 6 28-30 March 2014 – £199 EVENTS ♦ K 6 ♦ K Q 10 Just Duplicate Bridge ♣ A Q 7 4 ♣ 8 6 5 6-8 September £169 4-6 April 2014 – £169 Just Duplicate Bridge N N Rubber / Chicago W E W E Diana Holland S S 18-20 October £169 Full Board Just Duplicate Bridge ♠ A J 8 7 2 ♠ J No Single Supplement ♥ A K 3 ♥ Q 8 1-3 November £169 Booking Form on page 8. ♦ Q J 5 ♦ A J 9 8 6 4 3 Just Duplicate Bridge ♣ 9 2 ♣ A K 2 8-10 November £245 NEW Bernard Magee TOPIC Better Leads & Switches You are declarer in 4♠ and You are declarer in 5♦ after RUBBER / 22-24 November £169 West leads the ♥2. East West dealt and opened 3♥. CHICAGO Just Duplicate Bridge follows with the ♥J. How West leads the top two do you plan the play? hearts with East playing hi- EVENTS 17-19 January 2014 £169 lo and switches to the ♣J. Just Duplicate Bridge How do you plan the play? Chatsworth Hotel 21-23 February £179 Worthing BN11 3DU Stayman & Transfers 7-9 February 2014 2. ♠ 7 4 4. ♠ 6 5 14-16 March £169 with Sheila Rogers Just Duplicate Bridge ♥ A 9 6 5 ♥ Q J 6 ♦ K 6 3 2 ♦ A Q 7 4 3 25-27 April £179 ♣ K 5 4 ♣ A J 5 Denham Grove Further into the Auction Bucks UB9 5DG N N 4-6 April 2014 16-18 May £169 W E W E Just Duplicate Bridge S S with Diana Holland ♠ K J 5 ♠ K 9 13-15 June £169 ♥ K 4 3 ♥ A K 9 3 Just Duplicate Bridge The Olde Barn ♦ A 9 ♦ K 6 2 Marston, 27-29 June £169 ♣ A J 9 6 3 ♣ K Q 10 9 Lincs NG32 2HT Just Duplicate Bridge 29-31 August 2014 29-31 August £169 with Diana Holland You are declarer in 3NT You are declarer in 6NT Diana Holland Rubber / Chicago and West leads the ♠6. after West has overcalled East plays the ♠10. How the opening 1♥ bid with £169 Full Board Full Board ♠ ♦ do you plan the play? 1 . West leads the J and No Single Supplement No Single Supplement East follows with the ♦5. Booking Form on page 8. How do you plan the play? Booking Form on page 8.

Page 15 Answers to Bernard Magee’s Bidding Quizzes 4-6 on the Cover

1NT bid of any strength when your side lucky here and found his partner with 4. Dealer East. Love All. has not yet shown any suits, it is important just one or two points. Or perhaps, as ♠ K 7 6 5 ♠ A Q 9 8 2 to have a system available. For the same I have seen so many times, South has ♥ Q 3 2 N ♥ 6 5 4 reason that you need conventions over made a mistake and overcalled with 12- W E ♦ K 8 7 6 S ♦ A 5 an opening 1NT, you also need them in 14 points. If that is the case, then you ♣ 4 2 ♣ K Q 9 response to a 1NT overcall. You would should offer him his just deserts. love to know if you have a fit in spades, The reason you need a stronger hand but you cannot bid spades yourself to make a 1NT overcall is because the West North East South because you would be showing five next player is in a good position to know 1♠ Pass or more. Therefore, you bring out the whether to double or not. If he calculates ? Stayman convention: 2♣. his side are the major point holders, then Whenever you are playing in a part- double should be the call. ■ 2♠. Using the point count this answer is nership, you should assume that you simple: 6-9 points respond 2♠. However, play the same set of conventions in re- some of you using the losing trick count sponse to both an opening 1NT and this might not have evaluated fully. There are 1NT overcall. So if you play Stayman and Mr Bridge downgrades for this hand, that are very transfers, that would be in place here. important. Your partner bids 2♠ in response to Premium First of all, queens by themselves count Stayman and you can raise to game. half, so there are 2½ losers in the heart Quality Cards suit. Furthermore, you have an aceless hand which should also cause you to downgrade by adding half a loser. 6. Dealer East. Game All. This means that your full evaluation ♠ J 2 ♠ K Q 8 7 6 should be nine losers and hence you too ♥ 10 7 6 5 N ♥ A 9 2 W E should respond 2♠. ♦ 8 7 5 ♦ A 6 4 S The losing trick count assumes a ♣ A K Q 4 ♣ 3 2 spread of high cards, so if you have all the aces, you upgrade and if you are aceless, you downgrade. West North East South 1♠ 1NT ?

5. Dealer North. Love All Double. Your partner opens 1♠ and ♠ K Q 7 4 ♠ A 9 8 2 South overcalls 1NT showing a strong no- Standard Faces ♥ 3 N ♥ A Q 5 4 trump (15-18 points). Once no-trumps W E with or without ♦ J 10 8 6 5 2 S ♦ Q 9 have been bid, doubles change their ♣ K 9 ♣ A 7 4 meaning: from take-out to penalties. bar codes. Unboxed. Whenever your side has the majority of points and your opponents bid no- 6 red / 6 blue West North East South trumps, you should consider doubling for £19.95 1♥ 1NT Pass penalties. ? Here you have 10 HCP and your part- 30 red / 30 blue ner has opened, so you should double 2♣. Your partner has made a 1NT and expect to get a good score. You lead only £60 overcall which should show a strong the ♣A and when partner plays the ♣2 The London hand: the equivalent of a strong no- (low for NO) you switch to ♠J. You estab- trump with a good heart holding. You lish seven tricks quickly and might make Bridge Centre have 9 HCP and a six-card suit, so you one or two more in spades depending on ( 020 7388 2404 should certainly see the potential for a the break in the suit. www.bridgeshop.com game contract. When responding to a South has probably been a little un-

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Address: Post Code: Telephone/Mobile: Your information will not be sold or exchanged to a third party. Answers to Bernard Magee’s Bidding Quizzes 7-9 on the Cover

On this hand, your partner leads the your partner for a slam to have a chance. 7. Dealer North. Game All. ♣J. On a very bad day, North will hold He should not hold such strength for his ♠ 9 8 7 ♠ A K 3 the ♣K-Q and South will have the ♥A 4♠ response and therefore you should ♥ 4 3 N ♥ K Q 2 and 1NT might make, but on a better pass. With three aces missing, 4♠ is the W E ♦ J 7 6 5 2 S ♦ A 3 day, those cards will be reversed and you last making contract. ♣ A 4 3 ♣ J 10 9 8 2 might take 1NT three off. More likely is one or two off, which will score very nicely.

West North East South 9. Dealer East. Love All. 1NT Dbl Pass ♠ A K 8 7 6 ♠ 10 9 ? 8. Dealer West. Love All ♥ A J 10 8 N ♥ 7 ♠ K Q 9 8 7 ♠ A 6 5 4 2 ♦ 7 W E ♦ A Q 10 9 6 3 2 S Pass. Your partner has made a penalty ♥ K Q 2 N ♥ 7 ♣ Q J 3 ♣ 8 7 6 W E double of 1NT. This shows a hand worth ♦ K 4 S ♦ Q J 7 6 3 16 or more points (he can do it on a good ♣ K Q 6 ♣ 3 2 15). It is important to note the difference West North East South between sitting opposite the opening 3♦ 3♥ bidder (12-14) and the doubler (16+). West North East South ? Had you been opposite the weaker hand, 1♠ Pass 4♠ Pass you could be pretty sure that no-trumps ? Double. Your partner opens a pre- would not work and might prefer to take Pass. A direct raise to game in a major emptive 3♦ and South overcalls 3♥. out to a long suit. However, opposite a shows a distributional hand with the At first glance, 3NT seems a sensible stronger partner, your side is likely to potential for game, but not too many high option: you have a great heart stop and have the majority of the points, so you card points. With a strong responding the other suits covered. However, 3NT should harbour hopes of defeating 1NT. hand with spade support, you should will be a good contract only if you can Furthermore, why should 2♦ fare any either use a conventional response or access tricks in your partner’s hand – better? take your time in the bidding: delaying for that, you need diamond support not Lastly, your partner might be doubling your raise to game. This Delayed Game a misfit. East will supply 1 trick in 3NT with a very strong hand, or a hand with Raise shows a stronger type of supporting and you are certainly not going to supply a strong suit. Only take him out if you hand with potential for greater things. eight. are extremely weak and have a five-card As the opener, you have a strong hand, An important thing to note in this suit, or if you have a 6+-card suit. but you need at least three aces from auction is that after a pre-emptive bid from your side, all doubles are for penalties. Knowing this should make your call easy: you have 2 or 3 trump Cheltenham Regency Hotel tricks, 2 spades and a potential club trick Cheltenham GL51 0ST without counting any tricks in partner’s hand. Double and hope to collect 300 13-15 September or 500 points. Just Duplicate Bridge £199 The reason doubles are for penalties once your partner has pre-empted is 11-13 October because he has described his hand Just Duplicate Bridge £199 accurately so there is no need for any 25-27 October more description. You are left in control Just Duplicate Bridge £199 of the auction and can decide whether to penalise your opponents or bid on. 6-8 December How about 3♠? You should really have Just Duplicate Bridge £199 six spades for this bid and partner will raise to 4♠. The contract has no chance Full Board. No Single Supplement. Booking Form on page 8. and even if it did, you might get 500 points for doubling 3♥. ■

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free home demonstration or a copywe of don’t our 32 page aim to be the biggest - just the best! HANDCRAFTED IN brochure call freephone 0800 810 8821GREAT BRITAIN *50% discount is taken off the least expensive item Mr Bridge DEFENCE Festive 2013/2014 QUIZ Denham by Julian Pottage Grove (Answers on page 33) Near Uxbridge, ou are East in the defensive positions below. It is your turn UB9 5DU Yto play. Both sides are using Acol with a 12-14 1NT. Hosted by Jo Walsh 1. ♠ Q J 6 3 3. ♠ A J 10 5 23-27 Dec Just Duplicate Bridge £495 ♥ K 10 ♥ J 8 7 4 ♦ 9 7 3 ♦ 8 7 5 3 (with a small section for rubber/Chicago with Diana Holland) ♣ A 10 6 2 ♣ 2 27-29 Dec Signals and Discards £215 ♠ 10 5 4 ♠ 6 N ♥ Q J 7 3 N ♥ 10 9 3 29 Dec–2 Jan Doubles £445 W E W E S ♦ K 6 S ♦ A Q 10 9 6 2 ♣ J 9 7 3 ♣ K J 3

The Olde West North East South West North East South 1♥ 1♦ 1♠ Barn Pass 1♠ Pass 1NT1 Dbl1 3♠2 Pass 4♠ Pass 3NT End End Marston, Lincs, 115-17 1Take-out 2Pre-emptive NG32 2HT Partner leads the ♦Q. Partner leads the ♦K. What Hosted by Val Passmore What is your plan? is your plan? 23-27 Dec Just Duplicate Bridge £495 27-29 Dec Finding Slams £215 29 Dec–1 Jan Leads and Defence £445 2. ♠ A Q J 3 4. ♠ Q 10 9 ♥ K 10 ♥ A K 7 4 ♦ J 8 3 ♦ K J Inn on ♣ Q 10 6 2 ♣ 10 7 5 2 ♠ 6 5 4 ♠ 7 6 4 3 the Prom ♥ J 8 7 3 ♥ Q J 6 N N ♦ A 7 ♦ Q 10 8 2 St Annes-on-Sea, W E W E FY8 1LU S ♣ J 9 7 3 S ♣ K 3 Hosted by Bernard Magee West North East South West North East South 27-29 Dec Signals and Discards £245 1NT1 1NT1 Pass 2♣2 Pass 2♥ Pass 2♣2 Pass 2♥ Pass 3NT Pass 4♠ Pass 4♥ End ( 01483 489961 End 112-14 2Stayman 112-14 2Stayman e-mail: [email protected] Partner leads the ♣Q. Partner leads the ♦K. What What is your plan? website: www.holidaybridge.com is your plan? Booking Form on page 8.

Page 20 Chicago or Four-Deal Bridge by David Stevenson

here are two forms of Chicago you can keep track of who is dealer was a vulnerable game. Then his op- Bridge, also called Four-Deal and which deal it is. You score above ponents bid and made 7NT with 150 Bridge. In my experience, a lot and below the line as normal, adding honours, and he finished off by mak- Tof people play one way or the other game bonuses (and a part-score bonus ing 1NT with an overtrick on the last and they are often convinced theirs is on the fourth deal only) above the line hand. See if you can work out what the the only way to play it. as they happen. Let us look at a typical scores should be and if you get a dia- The original form, which I generally rubber with small hands. gram like this one. refer to as Chicago, was designed as an On the first hand, the dealer’s side Thus, Chicago is an excellent game alternative to normal rubber bridge. If makes 2♥+1, scoring 60 below, 30 for cut-in rubber bridge players, or you play cut-in rubber bridge, when above. On the second hand, the oth- players who wish to rotate. Four deals you can have any number of players er side makes 3♦ exactly, scoring 60 in every rubber (ignoring pass-outs), and players cut in and out at the end of below, also 100 above since they had but including part-score battles. I a rubber, then you may sit out for over honours. On the next hand, neither strongly advise rubber clubs to take it two hours as a rubber drags on and on. side is willing to let their opponents up so as to avoid long sit-outs and in- Then, after it finishes, the next rubber play a cheap game contract in 1NT, terminable rubbers. might be over in two deals. If you are and eventually the dealer finishes in The alternative form of scoring, unlucky, you might then be out again. 4♣ doubled, going one off for 200 – which I generally refer to as Four-Deal To avoid this, Chicago was invented. he was vulnerable. The fourth hand is Bridge, gets rid of the part-score bat- Each rubber is four deals long. On the passed out, but redealt. Now the dealer tles. The same rules apply to vulner- first, neither side is vulnerable, on the makes 1NT, which is ability, number of deals, pass-outs and second and third, dealer is vulnerable game, so scores 500 1 so on, but when a part-score is made, and on the fourth deal, both sides are above and 40 below. 4 2 a bonus of 50 is received, as in dupli- 3 vulnerable. If a hand is passed out, the Of course, it looks cate bridge and part-scores are not re- same dealer deals again, at the same complicated when 500 tained. Most people playing this way 200 written like this, but do not count honours either. This is vulnerability (and with the same pack 30 100 of cards). If a pair bids and makes it is simple enough much more a game for people practis- game, then they get the same game for rubber players 60 60 ing for duplicate bridge. Since the dis- 40 bonus as in duplicate; 300 if non-vul- to adapt. In the ex- tinction of above and below the line is nerable, 500 if vulnerable. Trick scores ample, the original 90 900 now irrelevant, scoring is often done -90 are unchanged, as are bonuses for dealer scored 60+30 on a blank duplicate score–card. slams, making doubled or redoubled on the first hand, but 810 One small alternative may be con- contracts and honours. his opponents then sidered: real experts in Chicago or But the interest for rubber players scored 60 + 100 + 200 + 40 + 500, thus Four-Deal bridge have a habit of bid- lies in the part-scores. If a side makes winning 900-90, ie 810, as in the dia- ding very light after three passes on a part-score, then it keeps it to the next gram. It is fun and fast. Note that if the the second and third hand, feeling deal, not getting a bonus as in dupli- dealer had bid and made only 1♥ on that giving dealer a second chance at cate. If one side makes 2♠+2 on the the last deal, 30 is not game (60+30 is a vulnerable game is not in their best first board, they get 60 below the line, not enough to reach interests. Whether there is any logic 60 above. If they make 1NT on the 100), so he would 4 in this or not, some people reverse the next board, that is 40 below the line have got 30 below 3 1 vulnerability, and make the non-deal- and that is game, as in normal rubber and 100 above for a 2 ing side vulnerable on the second and bridge. They get the bonus for game fourth hand part- 100 1500 third hand. Now the logic applies in dependent on the vulnerability on score. 30 150 reverse: there is a case for passing out the hand when they reach the game. Another example 500 500 hands freely in fourth to increase the So part-score battles are an integral is shown here. The 30 300 chance of a vulnerable game. I do not part of Chicago. Only if a part-score is score-sheet is shown 100 think the change is worth considering. made on the fourth hand and it does of the player who 100 If you do agree to play Chicago, or not reach game is a bonus of 100 given, dealt second. His 220 Four-Deal, remember to make sure the rules are agreed before you start. I since this part-score cannot build up opponents bid and 40 to a game. made 3NT on the recommend the Chicago version, with For scoring, you use a normal rub- first hand, but he did 800 2770 dealer vulnerable on the second and -800 ber score-card and draw a diagonal so with an overtrick third hands, part-scores building up cross at the top of the column. Then, on the second, so his 1970 to games and honours counting. ■

Page 21 Answers to Bernard Magee’s Bidding Quizzes 10-12 on the Cover

If you rebid a spade suit after a 1NT re- about that when you look at your hand: 10. Dealer West. Love All. sponse, you promise six or more spades. 3♣. This might look like a strong bid, but ♠ K Q 4 3 2 ♠ 5 Therefore, with this hand, you pass your partner must ask himself why you ♥ K Q 9 N ♥ A 8 4 – satisfied with the denomination and did not respond 2♣ on the first round. W E ♦ A 6 5 S ♦ K 7 4 3 2 knowing that game is beyond you. The answer is that you did not have the ♣ J 2 ♣ 8 5 4 strength: your 3♣ bid shows a very weak hand with six or more clubs. Your partner should pass. West North East South 11. Dealer East. Love All. 3♣ is likely to make, whilst 2NT will be 1♠ Pass 1NT Pass ♠ 3 2 ♠ A 6 5 a struggle. ? ♥ 6 2 N ♥ A K 9 4 3 W E ♦ J 4 2 S ♦ A Q 8 Pass. Your partner is showing 6-9 ♣ K Q 8 7 3 2 ♣ 5 4 points, so the first thing to note is that 12. Dealer North. Love All. game is beyond you. Second thing to de- ♠ A 9 2 ♠ K 6 3 cide is whether to play in no-trumps or West North East South ♥ A 8 7 6 N ♥ K Q J 4 3 W E not? 1♥ Pass ♦ A J 5 4 S ♦ 9 8 How many spades has your partner 1NT Pass 2NT Pass ♣ 8 6 ♣ 9 7 5 promised? ? The intuitive answer is two or more, but of course that is not the case. Because 3♣. First of all you need to analyse your West North East South you need a certain amount of strength partner’s bidding. He has raised your 1♣ 1♥ Pass to bid at the two-level, a lot of respond- 6-9 1NT response to 2NT. This means ? ing hands get thrown in the 1NT-dustbin. he feels there is a chance for game. The 1NT response promises no spades Your first decision is to decide whether 2♣. Your partner has made a non- at all: with a void spade and seven points you bid game or not. With 6 HCP you vulnerable one-level overcall: he is not you have to respond something, but do are minimum, so you should not go for promising much. You have a great hand not have the strength to bid at the two- game. Now you need to decide what the with primary support: you are thinking of level. safest part-score is and there is no doubt game, but keep in mind that your partner might be quite weak. It would be easy to leap to game and punish your partner with a Strong No-Trump for trying to overcall aggressively. It is Five-Card Majors important to try to overcall on weak The Interactive Way of Improving Your Five-Card hands to get involved in the auction, so, Majors Bidding with Bernard Magee as the partner, you have to allow for this possibility. What you need to do is show your excitement: the way to do that is to Contents (20 hands each) bid the opponents’ suit: 2♣. Your partner l Opening Bids & Responses l Opener’s & Responder’s Rebids should alert this bid. This bid says, ‘Partner, I am excited!’ l No-Trump Openings l Pre-empting With a weak overcall, your partner will l Support for Partner l Doubles rebid his suit, but with a hand of open- l Slams & Strong Openings l Overcalls ing strength he will show it by bidding l Competitive Auctions l Minors & Misfits anything else. Here, your partner re- bids 2♥ and now you might invite him System Requirements to game with 3♥, but East would pass: no aces and eight losers. Remember that Windows XP, Vista, 7 or 8, 8mb RAM, CD-ROM £89 an immediate response of 3♥ shows a including post and packing distributional hand; by bidding 2♣ first, See Mail Order Form on page 7. you show your strength and allow your partner to make the final decision. ■

Page 22 Treat yourself to a better bridge table From as little as £149 you can own one of our quality French-made folding bridge tables. There are three main points to consider when choosing a table; the wood, the hinges and the playing surface. Our hand-crafted tables are made by a team of French carpenters using the finest beech and the unique Pelissier hinge. The playing surface is either traditional felt or luxury velour. Each table is hand-sanded for a perfect finish and inspected by ‘Maître Marc’ . We have these tables specially made for us and then supply them directly to you, the bridge player, so you get the best value. Call for our brochure on 01483 750611 or go directly to our website Top of the range Monaco table with velour finish £269 www.bridge-tables.co.uk

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Page 23 1569 MR BRIDGE dps ad_Layout 1 21/06/2013 15:48 Page 1

BRIDGE CRUISES TO THE MEDITERRANEAN IN 2014

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Join a Voyage to Antiquity and explore the history of the ancient world while enjoying the benefits of

small-ship cruising, personal service join join Hosted by Hosted by MR & MRS MR & MRS and intimate surroundings of the Bernard Bernard bridge bridge Magee Magee award-winning Aegean Odyssey. MARCH 24, 2014 and team JULY 7, 2014 AUGUST 21, 2014 OCTOBER 7, 201 and team MEDITERRANEAN ISLES TREASURES OF ANCIENT GREECE, TURKEY & THE VOYAGE AROUND Plus with Mr Bridge special fares & ANCIENT EGYPT GREECE AND TURKEY CRIMEAN PENINSULA THE BLACK SEA CRUISES TO including flights, shore excursions Istanbul ukraine Istanbul Odessa Odessa CLASSICAL CIVILISATIONS IN 2014 UKraine in most ports, wine with dinner, Sevastopol Greece Turkey Canakkale sicilyPalermo Izmir Feodosiya Trapani Athens Sevastopol Russia on-board bridge programme, an Syracuse MykonosAntalya Turkey Istanbul Santorini Greece Yalta Sochi Special fares & Rethimnon Rhodes Limassol Izmir Canakkale Bulgaria Valletta Greece Nessebur outstanding lecture programme crete Cyprus Beirut Athens Turkey malta Athens Izmir Trabzon Alexandria lebanon Syros Mykonos Batumi LOW SINGLE SUPPLEMENT Antalya Nauplia Delos and all on-board gratuities, you'll Bodrum Istanbul GEORGIA Egypt Santorini Santorini TURKEY Kos Fethiye crete also find exceptional value for money. Rhodes Rethimnon Voyages to Antiquity fares include: 24 days from £3,295 pp 13 days from £2,095 pp 13 days from £2,095 pp 12 days from £1,995 pp •SCHEDULED FLIGHTS & TRANSFERS A journey through the history of Combine the classical sites of Greece Cruise to Minoan Crete and the gems This itinerary brings to life the the Mediterranean – from ancient and Turkey with quintessential white- of the Aegean and beyond. This journey intriguing history of the regions you •EXPERTLY PLANNED ITINERARIES Greece and Egypt to the heart of washed islands on this two-week voyage combines the monuments of antiquity will visit, from the history of Mongols •SHORE EXCURSIONS IN MOST PORTS the Byzantine Empire. through the beautiful Aegean Sea. and natural beauty of the Greek isles and Persians in Georgia to stories with the heritage of the Black Sea. of the Crimean War in Sevastopol. •EXPERT ANTIQUITY GUEST SPEAKERS DATE PORT DATE PORT MAR 24 Fly to ATHENS Greece JUL 7 Fly to ATHENS Greece DATE PORT DATE PORT •OPEN-SEATING DINING Transfer to Aegean Odyssey Transfer to Aegean Odyssey AUG 21 Fly to ATHENS Greece OCT 7 Fly to ISTANBUL Turkey MAR 25 At Sea JUL 8 SYROS Greek Islands Transfer to Aegean Odyssey Transfer to Aegean Odyssey •WINE INCLUDED WITH DINNER ON BOARD MAR 26 SYRACUSE Sicily JUL 9 SANTORINI (Akrotiri) AUG 22 NAUPLIA (Mycenae) Greece OCT 8 At Sea Greek Islands MAR 27/28 PALERMO (Monreale) Sicily AUG 23 RETHIMNON (Knossos) Crete OCT 9 TRABZON (Sumela) Turkey •GRATUITIES ON BOARD JUL 10 KOS Greek Islands MAR 29 TRAPANI (Segesta) Sicily AUG 24 SANTORINI (Akrotiri) Greek Islands OCT 10 BATUMI Georgia JUL 11 RHODES Greek Islands MAR 30 VALLETTA Malta AUG 25 DELOS Greek Islands OCT 11 SOCHI Russia JUL 12 RHODES (Lindos) PAST PASSENGERS SAVE MORE MAR 31 MYKONOS Greek Islands OCT 12 FEODOSIYA (Sudak) Ukraine At Sea Greek Islands Please call for details AUG 26 IZMIR (Ephesus) Turkey OCT 13 YALTA Ukraine APR 1/2 RETHIMNON (Knossos) Crete JUL 13 ANTALYA (Aspendos) Turkey AUG 27 IZMIR (Pergamon) Turkey OCT 14 SEVASTOPOL (Balaklava) APR 3 At Sea JUL 14 FETHIYE (Patara) Turkey AUG 28 CANAKKALE (Troy) Turkey Ukraine ADD A HOTEL STAY APR 4/5 ALEXANDRIA (Pyramids) Egypt JUL 15 BODRUM (Halicarnassos) OCT 15 SEVASTOPOL Ukraine APR 6 At Sea Turkey AUG 29 Cruise into the Black Sea BOOK NOW FOR A Add extra time at the beginning or OCT 16 ODESSA Ukraine APR 7/8 BEIRUT (Baalbek) Lebanon JUL 16 IZMIR (Ephesus) Turkey AUG 30 SEVASTOPOL Ukraine VOYAGE TO REMEMBER OCT 17 NESSEBUR Bulgaria end of your cruise with a 2-night APR 9 LIMASSOL Cyprus JUL 17 IZMIR (Pergamon) Turkey AUG 31 ODESSA Ukraine OCT 18 ISTANBUL Turkey APR 10 ANTALYA (Aspendos) Turkey JUL 18 CANAKKALE (Troy) Turkey SEPT 1 Cruise the Black Sea hotel stay in Athens and/or Istanbul, Transfer to airport for flight home TO APR 11 RHODES Greek Islands JUL 19 ISTANBUL Turkey SEPT 2 ISTANBUL Turkey VOYAGES ANTIQUITY Transfer to airport for flight home or a 3-night stay in Cairo. Please APR 12 SANTORINI Greek Islands Transfer to airport for flight home APR 13 DELOS/MYKONOS Greek Islands call for details. APR 14 IZMIR (Ephesus) Turkey APR 15 At Sea APR 16 ISTANBUL Turkey Transfer to airport for flight home Call on 01483 489961 or visit www.mrbridge.co.uk

This voyage is also offered in 2 shorter All prices, savings and offers shown are subject to availability at the time of booking. Prices are per person, based on sections. Athens to Cairo, 12 days from double occupancy, are available only on certain cabin grades on the sailing shown and may be withdrawn at any time £1,850pp. Or Cairo to Istanbul, 13 days without notice. Single accommodation is available only in certain categories and is subject to availability. from £1,995 pp. Please ask for details. 1569 MR BRIDGE dps ad_Layout 1 21/06/2013 15:48 Page 1

BRIDGE CRUISES TO THE MEDITERRANEAN IN 2014

Great value fares with in 2014

Join a Voyage to Antiquity and explore the history of the ancient world while enjoying the benefits of small-ship cruising, personal service join join Hosted by Hosted by MR & MRS MR & MRS and intimate surroundings of the Bernard Bernard bridge bridge Magee Magee award-winning Aegean Odyssey. MARCH 24, 2014 and team JULY 7, 2014 AUGUST 21, 2014 OCTOBER 7, 201 and team MEDITERRANEAN ISLES TREASURES OF ANCIENT GREECE, TURKEY & THE VOYAGE AROUND Plus with Mr Bridge special fares & ANCIENT EGYPT GREECE AND TURKEY CRIMEAN PENINSULA THE BLACK SEA CRUISES TO including flights, shore excursions Istanbul ukraine Istanbul Odessa Odessa CLASSICAL CIVILISATIONS IN 2014 UKraine in most ports, wine with dinner, Sevastopol Greece Turkey Canakkale sicilyPalermo Izmir Feodosiya Trapani Athens Sevastopol Russia on-board bridge programme, an Syracuse MykonosAntalya Turkey Istanbul Santorini Greece Yalta Sochi Special fares & Rethimnon Rhodes Limassol Izmir Canakkale Bulgaria Valletta Greece Nessebur outstanding lecture programme crete Cyprus Beirut Athens Turkey malta Athens Izmir Trabzon Alexandria lebanon Syros Mykonos Batumi LOW SINGLE SUPPLEMENT Antalya Nauplia Delos and all on-board gratuities, you'll Bodrum Istanbul GEORGIA Egypt Santorini Santorini TURKEY Kos Fethiye crete also find exceptional value for money. Rhodes Rethimnon Voyages to Antiquity fares include: 24 days from £3,295 pp 13 days from £2,095 pp 13 days from £2,095 pp 12 days from £1,995 pp •SCHEDULED FLIGHTS & TRANSFERS A journey through the history of Combine the classical sites of Greece Cruise to Minoan Crete and the gems This itinerary brings to life the the Mediterranean – from ancient and Turkey with quintessential white- of the Aegean and beyond. This journey intriguing history of the regions you •EXPERTLY PLANNED ITINERARIES Greece and Egypt to the heart of washed islands on this two-week voyage combines the monuments of antiquity will visit, from the history of Mongols •SHORE EXCURSIONS IN MOST PORTS the Byzantine Empire. through the beautiful Aegean Sea. and natural beauty of the Greek isles and Persians in Georgia to stories with the heritage of the Black Sea. of the Crimean War in Sevastopol. •EXPERT ANTIQUITY GUEST SPEAKERS DATE PORT DATE PORT MAR 24 Fly to ATHENS Greece JUL 7 Fly to ATHENS Greece DATE PORT DATE PORT •OPEN-SEATING DINING Transfer to Aegean Odyssey Transfer to Aegean Odyssey AUG 21 Fly to ATHENS Greece OCT 7 Fly to ISTANBUL Turkey MAR 25 At Sea JUL 8 SYROS Greek Islands Transfer to Aegean Odyssey Transfer to Aegean Odyssey •WINE INCLUDED WITH DINNER ON BOARD MAR 26 SYRACUSE Sicily JUL 9 SANTORINI (Akrotiri) AUG 22 NAUPLIA (Mycenae) Greece OCT 8 At Sea Greek Islands MAR 27/28 PALERMO (Monreale) Sicily AUG 23 RETHIMNON (Knossos) Crete OCT 9 TRABZON (Sumela) Turkey •GRATUITIES ON BOARD JUL 10 KOS Greek Islands MAR 29 TRAPANI (Segesta) Sicily AUG 24 SANTORINI (Akrotiri) Greek Islands OCT 10 BATUMI Georgia JUL 11 RHODES Greek Islands MAR 30 VALLETTA Malta AUG 25 DELOS Greek Islands OCT 11 SOCHI Russia JUL 12 RHODES (Lindos) PAST PASSENGERS SAVE MORE MAR 31 MYKONOS Greek Islands OCT 12 FEODOSIYA (Sudak) Ukraine At Sea Greek Islands Please call for details AUG 26 IZMIR (Ephesus) Turkey OCT 13 YALTA Ukraine APR 1/2 RETHIMNON (Knossos) Crete JUL 13 ANTALYA (Aspendos) Turkey AUG 27 IZMIR (Pergamon) Turkey OCT 14 SEVASTOPOL (Balaklava) APR 3 At Sea JUL 14 FETHIYE (Patara) Turkey AUG 28 CANAKKALE (Troy) Turkey Ukraine ADD A HOTEL STAY APR 4/5 ALEXANDRIA (Pyramids) Egypt JUL 15 BODRUM (Halicarnassos) OCT 15 SEVASTOPOL Ukraine APR 6 At Sea Turkey AUG 29 Cruise into the Black Sea BOOK NOW FOR A Add extra time at the beginning or OCT 16 ODESSA Ukraine APR 7/8 BEIRUT (Baalbek) Lebanon JUL 16 IZMIR (Ephesus) Turkey AUG 30 SEVASTOPOL Ukraine VOYAGE TO REMEMBER OCT 17 NESSEBUR Bulgaria end of your cruise with a 2-night APR 9 LIMASSOL Cyprus JUL 17 IZMIR (Pergamon) Turkey AUG 31 ODESSA Ukraine OCT 18 ISTANBUL Turkey APR 10 ANTALYA (Aspendos) Turkey JUL 18 CANAKKALE (Troy) Turkey SEPT 1 Cruise the Black Sea hotel stay in Athens and/or Istanbul, Transfer to airport for flight home TO APR 11 RHODES Greek Islands JUL 19 ISTANBUL Turkey SEPT 2 ISTANBUL Turkey VOYAGES ANTIQUITY Transfer to airport for flight home or a 3-night stay in Cairo. Please APR 12 SANTORINI Greek Islands Transfer to airport for flight home APR 13 DELOS/MYKONOS Greek Islands call for details. APR 14 IZMIR (Ephesus) Turkey APR 15 At Sea APR 16 ISTANBUL Turkey Transfer to airport for flight home Call on 01483 489961 or visit www.mrbridge.co.uk

This voyage is also offered in 2 shorter All prices, savings and offers shown are subject to availability at the time of booking. Prices are per person, based on sections. Athens to Cairo, 12 days from double occupancy, are available only on certain cabin grades on the sailing shown and may be withdrawn at any time £1,850pp. Or Cairo to Istanbul, 13 days without notice. Single accommodation is available only in certain categories and is subject to availability. from £1,995 pp. Please ask for details. BERNARD MAGEE’S INTERACTIVE TUTORIALS

BEGIN BRIDGE ACOL MORE DECLARER ACOL VERSION BIDDING (ADVANCED) PLAY l Card Play Technique ACOL BIDDING l Opening Bids and l Suit Establishment l Planning Card Play Responses l Basics in No-trumps l Bidding Balanced l Slams and Strong l Advanced Basics l Suit Establishment Hands Openings in Suits l Bidding Suits l Weak Twos l Support for Partner l Hold-ups l Responding to a Suit l Strong Hands l Pre-empting l Ruffing for l Supporting Partner l Defence Extra Tricks l Responding to 1NT l Overcalls to Weak Twos l Entries in l Stayman l No-trump £66 l Defence to 1NT No-trumps £76 l Strong Two Opening Openings l Doubles and Response and Responses l Delaying l Two-suited Drawing Trumps l Overcalls l Opener’s and £96 Overcalls l Doubles £66 Responder’s Rebids l Using the Lead l Defences to l Pre-empting l Minors and Misfits l Trump Control Other Systems l Defence against No l Doubles l Endplays & Trump Contracts l Misfits and Avoidance l Competitive l Defence against Suit Distributional Auctions l Using the Bidding Contracts Hands

ADVANCED DEFENCE FIVE-CARD BETTER DECLARER PLAY MAJORS & BRIDGE l Lead vs Strong No-Trump l Making Overtricks No-trump Contracts l Ruffing for in No-trumps l Opening Bids Extra Tricks l Lead vs & Responses l Making Overtricks Suit Contracts in Suit Contracts l No-Trump l Doubling and l Partner of Leader Openings Defence l Endplays vs No-trump Against Contracts l Support £89 £69 l Avoidance Doubled for Partner l Partner of Leader Contracts l Wrong £81 vs Suit Contracts l Slams Contract & Strong Openings l Play and Defence l Count l Simple of 1NT Contracts Signals l Rebids Squeezes l Attitude l Minors l Counting £76 l Finding and Signals & Misfits the Hand Bidding Slams l Discarding l Pre-empting l Trump Reductions l Making the & Coups l Defensive Plan l Doubles Most of High Cards l Playing Doubled l Stopping Declarer l Overcalls Contracts l Counting l Competitive l Competitive l Safety Plays the Hand Auctions 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, 7 or 8, 8mb RAM, CD-ROM Answers to David Huggett’s Play Quiz on page 15

the ♠6. East plays the ♠10. How do you that trumps broke 3-0? If West had been 1. ♠ Q 10 9 3 plan the play? able to lead one at trick three, dummy ♥ 8 6 4 With West presumably holding the top would have been an entry short to estab- ♦ K 6 spades over you, it is essential to keep lish the spade. ♣ A Q 7 4 East off the lead and it might look natu- ♠ K 4 ♠ 6 5 ral to play a club to the king at trick two ♥ Q 10 7 2 N ♥ J 9 5 followed by a low club to the jack, not 4. ♠ 6 5 W E ♦ ♦ ♥ A 9 3 S 10 8 7 4 2 caring if it loses to a doubleton queen in Q J 6 ♣ 8 6 5 3 ♣ K J 10 the West hand as you only need four club ♦ A Q 7 4 3 ♠ A J 8 7 2 tricks for your contract. But that would ♣ A J 5 ♥ A K 3 be disastrous if West had started with a ♠ A Q J 10 8 ♠ 7 4 3 2 ♦ Q J 5 singleton club because the suit can now ♥ 10 5 N ♥ 8 7 4 2 W E ♣ 9 2 only be established at the expense of let- ♦ J 10 9 8 S ♦ 5 ting East gain the lead. Of course, all this ♣ 8 3 ♣ 7 6 4 2 can be overcome by playing a club to the ♠ K 9 You are declarer in 4♠ and West leads nine at trick three. Either it will win, when ♥ A K 9 3 the ♥2. East follows with the ♥J. How do you have a further finesse against the ♦ K 6 2 you plan the play? queen, or the suit will have broken. ♣ K Q 10 9 It might look tempting to take a series of finesses, but that could lead to los- ing a trick in every suit if the gods are 3. ♠ A 8 6 5 3 You are declarer in 6NT after West has being unkind. You might not be able to ♥ J 6 overcalled the opening 1♥ bid with 1♠. avoid losing both black kings and you ♦ K Q 10 West leads the ♦J and East follows with certainly have a loser in diamonds, but ♣ 8 6 5 the ♦5. How do you plan the play? you can avoid a loser in hearts unless ♠ 9 7 4 ♠ K Q 10 2 If diamonds break 3-2, there is no prob- N you are very unlucky. So win the heart ♥ A K 10 7 5 4 2 ♥ 9 3 lem and if East has four, then the contract W E lead and play the ♠A if you wish, but you ♦ Void S ♦ 7 5 2 is surely doomed because obviously West must follow up by leading a diamond to ♣ J 10 4 ♣ Q 9 7 3 has the top spades. But strangely the con- the king and continue the suit until the ♠ J tract is a virtual certainty if West has four ace appears. The defence will undoubt- ♥ Q 8 diamonds. Win the lead in hand and play edly lead another heart, but now you can ♦ A J 9 8 6 4 3 a second diamond and if East shows out win and discard dummy’s losing heart on ♣ A K 2 just cash all your winners in hearts and your remaining diamond. Only then can clubs. To keep his diamond, West will you resume drawing trumps. be forced to bare his ♠A. Meanwhile, You are declarer in 5♦ after West dealt you throw your last low diamond from and opened 3♥. West leads the top dummy, keeping the two little spades. You 2. ♠ 7 4 two hearts with East playing hi-lo and can duck a spade completely, knowing ♥ A 9 6 5 switches to the ♣J. How do you plan the that West will have to play his ace on thin ♦ K 6 3 2 play? air. ■ ♣ K 5 4 It looks as though there is an inescap- ♠ A Q 9 6 3 ♠ 10 8 2 able club loser, but, with a bit of luck, you ♥ 10 8 2 N ♥ Q J 7 should be able to promote dummy’s fifth W E BEGIN BRIDGE ♦ 10 8 5 4 ♦ Q J 7 spade into a winner. So before drawing S ACOL ♣ 2 ♣ Q 10 8 7 any trumps, play a spade to the ace and £66 ♠ K J 5 ruff a spade high. Now enter dummy VERSION ♥ K 4 3 with a trump and ruff another spade high ♦ A 9 and repeat the process once more. If the An Interactive Tutorial ♣ A J 9 6 3 adverse spades break 4-3, the last spade CD with Bernard Magee in dummy will be a winner and you still have a trump to get there with. As an See Mail Order form on page 7. You are declarer in 3NT and West leads aside, can you see how lucky you were

Page 27 Julian Pottage answers your bridge questions

When is a No-Trump Overcall Unusual?

What is 2NT if or intermediate, it is indeed and that nine tricks the opposition normal to play 2NT as might be easier than ♠ 9 7 open 1NT? If natural. If the opening is eleven. Everyone else ♥ Q J 3 N Q W E they open a major suit, strong (Acol type), it would was in clubs or diamonds ♦ J 7 4 S is the following sensible be more common to play at various levels. ♣ A K Q 10 3 for the meaning of a 2NT as the minors. How should I have bid? no-trump overcall? Yes, if they make a Rosaleen Smith by email. 1♥/1♠: an overcall of pre-emptive opening in West North East South 2NT shows the minors. a major, 3NT is natural If you bid something 1♣ 1♥ 1♠ 2♥ 2♥/2♠: an overcall and 4NT for the minors. other than 3NT, 3♣ Pass 3♥ Pass of 2NT shows a strong A you would need to 3NT End hand with stops in ♣♦♥♠ make a forcing bid. In a the major suit. tournament, you would find 3NT went two down 3♥/3♠: an overcall of Playing Acol that people are playing 2♣ for a poor score. 3NT is strong to play with with a weak no- as an enquiry asking for David France by email. stops in the major suit. Qtrump, this was further information about 3♥/3♠: an overcall of my hand at club pairs: partner’s hand. If you are Playing a 12-14 4NT shows the minors. not playing that, you might 1NT, opening 1NT 4♥/4♠: an overcall of invent a 2♥ reverse. A seems clear. 4NT shows the minors. ♠ 8 To me, it seems a little Having decided to open Mr W B Coffey by email. ♥ 9 5 3 unlucky that partner 1♣, opener should not have ♦ A J 10 9 6 4 happened to have competed to 3♣ either. After the opponents ♣ A K 8 nothing in spades. Bidding to a higher level open 1NT, These days, it rarely should show extra values, A traditionally a 2NT happens that each opponent which the hand lacks. Bidding overcall shows a strong two- Me Partner has five spades and the a suit again should show an suited hand. That said, the 1♣ chance to overcall at the one unbalanced hand, which is bid does not come up very 1♦ 1NT level, yet chooses to pass. a further misdescription. often (indeed, I do not think 3NT End Although I do agree with I can ever remember making ♣♦♥♠ the 3NT bid, I would not it). Many pairs these days We went two down. have started from here. play 2NT for the minors. Partner had 15 points, Please could If you were playing a Whether a 2NT overcall which included five you comment strong no-trump, the 1♣ of 2♥/2♠ is natural or for clubs and two little Qon West’s opening would be fine but the minors should depend spades. actions, playing a 12- then opener passes next time. upon the strength of the I thought that partner 14 no-trump and South’s raise to 2♥ relieves opening. If it is weak, which had a flattish hand, with Benjaminised Acol? The West of the obligation to find I think you have assumed, something in the majors, vulnerability is game all. a rebid.

Page 28 Ask Julian continued As your partner’s 1♣-1♥-1NT. You should ♠ Void double was over the then have Checkback ♥ K 9 8 7 6 5 A club suit, you should available to discover a ♦ Void consider the possibility possible 4-4 spade fit 1. What is the ♣ A 7 6 5 4 3 2 that the double was for (as well as finding out point range for ♠ A J 8 7 ♠ K Q penalties. Looking at your other information about Qthe following 6 5 4 3 2 own club holding, you opener’s hand). in Acol, with no ♥ A Q J 2 ♥ Void might guess the intention Opening 1♣, rebidding opposition bidding? ♦ Void N ♦ A 10 9 8 7 was indeed for penalties. 1♠ and then jumping to 3♥ W E 1a. 1 any-1NT S 6 5 4 3 2 Incidentally, playing seems a very poor way to 1b. 1♥-1♠-2♦-2NT ♣ Void ♣ 8 Stayman, you should have describe a balanced hand. and, if different, ♠ 10 9 bid 3♣ over 2NT. If partner Partner would expect you to 1♦-1♠-2♥-2NT ♥ 10 4 3 rebids 3♥ to show four be 4-3-1-5, not 4-3-3-3. 2. Why should one ♦ K Q J hearts or 3♦ to deny a How else would you bid have five hearts ♣ K Q J 10 9 four-card major, you have a 4-3-1-5 shape? If your or more when almost certainly improved methods force the 1♠ rebid responding 2♥ to 1♠? the contract. Even 3♠ on a upon you, opener has to Gordon Tate by email. Stanley Selby, Edgware. 4-3 fit should be playable. rebid in no-trump when You might score a couple next he gets the chance to 1a. If the opening I can well imagine of club ruffs, which will show the balanced hand. is a major, a 1NT there would be a be tricks themselves and A response shows A variety of results. provide entries to enable ♣♦♥♠ 6-9 or sometimes 5-9. On such a deal, guesswork partner to lead up to high Traditional Acol text- plays a significant part. cards in the strong hand. Many advise books say that 1NT over Opening the East hand While your partner will that when 1♦ shows 7-9. These days, with 5♦ seems reasonable not be expecting you to Qresponding most pairs play 6-9, the and this might get doubled pass his response to 3♣, to a suit opening you same as over 1♥/1♠. 1♣- by South. West bids a natural there is no law against it. must bid a major, no 1NT shows 8-10. The reason 5♠ and will North come matter how weak the for the higher range in alive with voids in both ♣♦♥♠ suit. I wonder which response to 1♣ is that you opponents’ suits? The is more likely: can bid a suit (or raise 1♣ auction might continue: Playing SAYC, 1. You bid 1NT and to 2♣) with weaker hands. 6♣, 6♠. Now the guesswork better minor, miss a 4-4 fit in 1b. The range for the first really starts. 7♣ is a Qwould the the major. sequence is 10-12. Opener good sacrifice, but 7♠ will sequence below be a 2. You bid the suit may still have a minimum make. sensible way to start and your partner opening. The range for the bidding this North hand? assumes you have second sequence certainly ♣♦♥♠ at least a partial is different. Opener has stopper in the suit. reversed, promising 16/17+. How would ♠ K 9 8 6 Have any computer If you play 2NT as natural, you interpret ♥ J 9 5 simulations looked non-forcing, the range is Qpartner’s double ♦ A Q J at this? 5-7. With any more than with this West hand? ♣ K 7 2 John Martin, that, you would not make a Evanton, Inverness. bid that partner can pass. 2. In Acol, you open 1♥ on ♠ 9 4 3 North South Sorry, I do not hands with 4-4 in the majors. ♥ 10 6 3 2 N 1♣ 1♥ know the answer W E Therefore, you find 4-4 heart ♦ J 8 7 5 2 S 1♠ 2♦ A about the computer fits by opening 1♥. There is ♣ 7 3♥ … simulations. With a 4333 no need to respond 2♥ to 1♠ shape and a poor 4-card to look for a 4-4 heart fit. Huw Jones, Swansea. major, I am sure I would West North East South respond 1NT rather ♣♦♥♠ 2NT Pass Sorry, I do not like than bid the major. Pass 3♣ Dbl Pass the 1♠ rebid for a Although you will How would ? A start. With a 4333 occasionally miss a 4-4 fit, you bid this I bid 3♦, after which shape, opener should be the 4-4 fit might well not Qunusually freak we ended up going opening (if in range) or produce an extra trick when deal? East dealt with down in 3NT. rebidding in no-trumps. This the suit is poor and you have nobody vulnerable. Rupert Timpson by email. gives you the start no ruffing value.

Page 29 Ask Julian continued situation – a jump to four of beatable (unless the want to play in a heart a minor to show that minor hand with the void spade, partial, you either pass 1♥ plus the unbid major. If you East no doubt, had both or raise to 2♥. 3♥ would used that, you would bid 4♣ top diamonds). It seems be offering a choice of My LHO opened to shows spades and clubs. surprising that nobody games (4♥ if opener has a weak 2♥ and Your partner would simply doubled you in 5♠. five hearts, otherwise 3NT). Qtwo passes raise to 5♣ and you would Since there is a spade followed. I held: be on a guess whether to void, 5♣ is surely making, so ♣♦♥♠ bid on. Playing matchpoints, one down in 5♥ or 5♠ is a you would rather be in 4♠ reasonable result anyway. My hand was: ♠ K Q J 8 4 3 making 11 tricks than 5♣ ♥ Void making 12 tricks – that ♣♦♥♠ Q ♦ A 7 might be a factor in deciding ♣ A K Q 9 2 whether to bid 6♣. East opens 1♥. West holds: ♠ Q 7 5 ♣♦♥♠ Q ♥ Void I jumped to 3♠, ♦ A K J 9 5 4 thinking it was forcing. I, North, and ♣ A 8 7 6 Partner held: my partner held ♠ Q 7 3 Qthese hands: ♥ Q 6 5 ♦ J 10 5 4 3 Me Partner ♠ 6 ♣ K 5 1♥ ♥ K 8 7 5 3 ♠ A Q 9 3 2 2♦ 2♠ ♦ K 8 4 2 ♥ A K Q 10 2 3NT 4♥ ♣ 10 7 3 ♦ J 10 2 West has to choose End ♣ Void between 1NT or 2♥ (with three-card support and Partner was 5-7-0-1 N He left me in it, saying W E a possible ruffing value). but quite weak; she just S that my bid was not 1. What would you bid? made 4♥. Do you agree strong enough. After ♠ K 10 8 2. Suppose you with my bidding? discussing other options, ♥ J 9 8 6 respond 1NT and partner Alan Solomon, Wimbledon. I consulted my bidding ♦ Q 7 6 5 raises to 2NT. Can books, which seemed to ♣ 10 5 West rebid 3♥ to offer No: on the second favour a Michaels cue a choice of games – or round, I would have bid of 3♥. How should is that a sign-off like A bid 3♦, not jumped to the auction develop as West North East South 3♣ or 3♦ would be? 3NT. A reverse after a two- I have not mentioned 1♠ 3♣ Pass Lloyd Lewis, Swansea. level response should create either of my suits? Pass 3♥ Pass 4♠ a game force. By keeping Mike Cumpstey by email. Pass Pass 5♣ Pass 1. Yes it is a close the bidding lower, you Pass 5♠ End decision, sufficiently give partner more room to The idea of an A close that the right describe her hand. If you had opposing pre-empt I went one off as the answer probably depends let her rebid 3♠, that would A is to make life spades broke 5-0. 5♥ upon your opening style. show 5-6 (or longer) in the difficult. Reaching a slam makes. Partner thought With honours in all four majors. Then you would have with confidence is not going I was 5-4 in the majors. suits, it looks like a 1NT bid, known you had a 5-3 spade to be easy. However, you What should I have bid? especially if your style is to fit. As it went, partner might should at least reach game. Davina Arkell, open 4-card majors when- have been 4-7 in the majors. If you are playing 3♥ as Godalming, Surrey. ever you can. If, however, you If you cannot convince your a Michaels cue-bid in that normally open the minor on partner that the sequence situation, that would be You were likely to be 4-4 major/minor hands, this 1♥-2♦-2♠ creates a game showing spades and a minor. 5-5 on your bidding, increases the chance partner force, you could have used Your partner would bid 4♣, A because on most has five hearts and may tip fourth-suit forcing (3♣), ‘pass or correct,’ but you hands with 5-4 you would the balance towards 2♥. which certainly does create a would override him, bidding be doubling 3♣ for take- 2. I do not see how 3♥ game force when it is at the 4♠ because of your sixth out rather than bidding 3♥. can be a sign off. If you three level. spade and extra values. Your partner should have Nearly all the top players bid 4♥ rather than 4♠. E-mail your questions for Julian to: use a convention called If all the spades were in [email protected] Leaping Michaels in this one hand, 5♥ is probably

Page 30 Ask Julian continued If you are in fourth Bridge and Travel Tips seat and have 12-14 A points, you know you have the best hand at the CHUTZPAH! These hands table. I do not see why you come from board would need to be stronger Bridge tip from Sally Brock: Q1 of a World Wide than usual to open 1NT. Look confident even when you’re not Web Sims. Our auction Nobody is going to have 15 was not a success. points and double, are they? e played a bridge and that a heart continuation A slam in diamonds The one commonly played match the other is right, but often you will find was possible. rule for opening in fourth Wday. The opposition he is deflected by that play seat is that you add your HCP bidding went: 1NT-2♣-2♥- of the jack. Maybe he is just to your spades and open with 3♥-4♥ (after a long think). not thinking properly, but he This was passed to me and may think you have ♥A-J-10. ♠ K ♠ A J 4 2 15 or more. On a competi- N I had a singleton trump and Maybe he will think his side ♥ 4 W E ♥ A 9 8 6 5 tive part score deal, the side S not much else. I doubled needs to take diamond tricks ♦ A K J 10 4 ♦ Q 9 5 that owns the spade suit is and we got 500. The les- and switch to that suit. What- ♣ A K 10 9 3 2 ♣ 4 likely to buy the contract. son here is: make up your ever he thinks, he is much Common sense applies to mind whether to accept a more likely to go wrong if weak sounding bids. If you game invitation early in the you play the jack rather than sequence, so that you don’t a feeble deuce. West North East South open a weak two or a weak have to think before making ♥ 2 * Pass Pass three in fourth seat, you will your final decision. I knew Dbl Pass 4♠ Pass have the values for a one lev- that they had thin values and ♠ K Q J 3 Pass Dbl End el opening bid (otherwise you that trumps weren’t breaking ♥ 8 7 *Weak would pass the deal out). You so the double was easy. ♦ Q 7 6 are just trying to forestall any Changing the subject a lit- ♣ A K J 5 tle, look at this deal (shown in ♠ 9 8 6 2 ♠ A 7 4 What would you opposing bidding while trying next column). ♥ K Q 4 N ♥ A 10 9 6 5 recommend? to tell partner that you do not W E ♦ K 5 4 3 S ♦ 10 9 8 John Martin, think you have game on. West North East South ♣ 9 8 ♣ 4 3 Evanton, Scotland. Pass 1♣ Pass 1NT ♠ 10 5 ♣♦♥♠ Pass 2NT Pass 3NT ♥ J 3 2 West’s double was All Pass ♦ A J 2 ♣ Q 10 7 6 2 misleading. A jump Playing Chi- West leads a high spade to A to 4NT to show a cago, would East’s ace and East switches strong hand with both minors QNorth’s 3♣ bid to the ♥6. It is surprising Remember that your oppo- describes the hand much be a trial bid asking how often it works to play a nents cannot see your cards. better – indeed, it is more for help in that suit? confident jack. West should It is much better to bid and or less a textbook hand for be able to work out that his play confidently – sometimes partner must have the ♥A you get away with murder! ■ the bid. With both major West North East South suit aces (which should 1♣ 1♥ Pass 2♠* cover West’s major-suit losers Pass 3♣ whatever they are) and three *Natural and forcing to game Travel tip from Emma Thomson: diamonds to an honour, (1♠ would be passable) e’ve all listened enviously to friends’ stories of East is certainly worth a Michael Zaidner by email. having their plane ticket upgraded. Listened, jump to 6♦. Indeed, East Wmouths agape, at tales of larger seats, proper will be thinking of a grand Trial bids normally food and – heavens above! – real cutlery, without having slam, though there seems arise when you have to pay the £2,000 price tag. Here are a few tips for im- proving your chances: you’ll need to dress smartly, arrive no easy way to investigate. agreed a suit. You A early and employ a little chutzpah. have explained 2♠ as a 1 Airlines reward company loyalty, so if you’re a frequent ♣♦♥♠ strong hand with just spades, flyer wave your card prominently. so there is no suit agreed at 2 All airlines overbook flights; they assume not everyone In fourth seat, the point the overcaller bids will turn up. If they do, they’ll be looking for people to after three 3♣. As 2♠ has already cre- bump onto the next flight. Offer to be rebooked with an upgrade – works very well if you don’t already have passes, do you ated a force, the overcaller Q checked-in baggage which would otherwise have to be need to be stronger than does not need to bid the op- removed from the plane. 12-14 to open 1NT? posing suit to do so. I would 3 If you’re seated next to a problem passenger, you’re Are there any guide- take 3♣ as asking for more within your rights to ask to be moved. lines about open- information, perhaps looking 4 If it’s a special event, such as a honeymoon, tell the desk ing in fourth seat? for a club stopper or for a clerk. Trevor Baker by email. sixth spade. ■

Page 31 Elstead Bernard Magee’s Tips Blunsdon House Hotel for Better Bridge 65 invaluable tips in 160 pages Hotel Bournemouth Swindon SN26 7AS BH1 3QP Bidding Tips 33 A low lead usually promises 1 Always consider bidding length and an honour spades if you can 34 When declaring 1NT, 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 opponents steal your deal 36 Lead up to your 4 A takeout double shows two-honour holding shortage in the suit doubled 37 Do not always assume 5 ‘Borrow’ a king a suit will break well to keep the auction open 38 Drop a high card 6 After a penalty double, to put off the defence 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 suit that might be useful 41 Do not waste your trumps 9 Isolated honours are bad 42 Consider leaving a lone defen- except in partner’s suit sive trump winner out 10 Use the jump shift sparingly 11 Consider passing and letting Defence Tips BRIDGE partner decide 43 Keep four-card suits intact EVENTS BRIDGE 12 You need two top honours whenever possible EVENTS for a second-seat pre-empt 44 Give count on declarer’s leads 13 Put the brakes on if you have a 45 Keep the right cards 11-13 October £245 misfit rather than signal 14 Strong and long minors work 46 Take your time Bernard Magee 8-10 November £199 when dummy is put down well in no-trumps Splinters & Cue Bids Just Duplicate Bridge 15 One stop in the opponents’ suit 47 High cards are for killing can be enough for no-trumps other high cards 16 Keep your two-level 48 Do not waste 8-10 November £215 15-17 November £199 responses up to strength intermediate cards 17 Use your normal methods in 49 Pick two key suits to Stan Powell Just Duplicate Bridge concentrate on during the play response to a 1NT overcall Doubles 18 Don’t overcall just because 50 If in doubt, cover an honour with an honour 22-24 November £199 you have opening points 19 Overcalls can be quite weak, 51 If a lead is from two honours, it 22-24 November £245 Just Duplicate Bridge so be prudent when responding is best not to cover 20 Weak overcalls must be based 52 Keep your honour to kill Bernard Magee dummy’s honour on strong suits Better Defence 10-12 Jan 2014 £199 21 6NT requires 33 points 53 Try to show partner your Just Duplicate Bridge not 4 aces and 4 kings solid honour sequences 22 Raise immediately, if weak 54 Lead the normal card when 10-12 January 2014 £199 with four-card support leading partner’s suit 55 Never underlead an ace at trick Just Duplicate Bridge 31 Jan – 2 Feb £199 23 In a competitive auction, show support immediately one in a suit contract Just Duplicate Bridge 24 Bid to the level of your fit 56 Be wary of leading from quickly with weak hands four cards to only one honour 21-23 February £199 25 With strength and support, 57 Lead a higher card from Just Duplicate Bridge 14-16 February £199 use the opponents’ bid suit a suit without an honour Just Duplicate Bridge 58 Lead through ‘beatable’ strength and up to weakness Declarer-play Tips 59 Cash your winners before try- 28 Feb – 2 March £199 26 When your contract depends ing for a trump promotion Just Duplicate Bridge 28-30 March £199 on a finesse, think ‘endplay’ 60 Be patient when defending Just Duplicate Bridge 27 Consider what a defender 1NT might be thinking about 61 Trump leads can be safe 14-16 March £199 28 Always take your time throughout the play Just Duplicate Bridge 11-13 April £215 at trick one 29 Establish extra tricks before General Tips Stan Powell cashing your winners 62 Do not put important cards Signals & Discards 30 Use your opponents’ at either end of your hand 25-27 April £199 bidding to your advantage 63 Avoid being declarer when Just Duplicate Bridge 31 Avoid the ‘baddie’ you are dummy Full Board gaining the lead 64 Before you lead, ask for a Full Board No Single Supplement 32 Use the Rule of Seven when review of the auction holding up in no-trumps 65 Enjoy the Game! No Single Supplement Booking Form on page 8. £14 including postage and packing from Mr Bridge, Booking Form on page 8. Ryden Grange, Knaphill, Surrey GU21 2TH. ( 01483 489961

Page 32 Answers to Julian Pottage’s Defence Quiz on page 20

Partner leads the ♦K. What is your plan? the second round of diamonds does not 1. ♠ Q J 6 3 This time, you know that partner has matter as the cards lie. ♥ K 10 the ♦K and the ♦Q but not the ♦J. Since In practice, if West discards an ♦ 9 7 3 you have some worthless trumps, you encouraging ♥6 (you can see all the ♣ A 10 6 2 can afford to overtake with the ♦A and higher spot cards so you will know that ♠ A 8 7 ♠ 10 5 4 return the suit. Although this sets up the the ♥6 is encouraging), you will switch to ♥ 9 4 2 N ♥ Q J 7 3 ♦J, you intend to ruff the third round. This hearts rather than play a third round of W E ♦ ♦ Q J 10 5 2 S K 6 strategy proves essential as the cards lie diamonds. ♣ 8 4 ♣ J 9 7 3 because declarer threatens to discard a If you did not get a request to switch to ♠ K 9 2 diamond from dummy on the third round hearts, you would continue diamonds in ♥ A 8 6 5 of hearts and partner lacks a quick entry case partner holds the ♠K and only one ♦ A 8 4 outside diamonds. heart trick. ♣ K Q 5 In a no-trump contract, you would have to let the ♦K hold and try to unscramble the blockage later. West North East South 4. ♠ Q 10 9 1♥ ♥ A K 7 4 Pass 1♠ Pass 1NT1 ♦ K J Pass 3NT End 115-17 3. ♠ A J 10 5 ♣ 10 7 5 2 ♥ J 8 7 4 ♠ K 8 5 ♠ 7 6 4 3 Partner leads the ♦Q. What is your plan? ♦ 8 7 5 3 ♥ 5 3 N ♥ Q J 6 The lead of the queen shows Q-J-10 ♣ 2 ♦ 9 7 6 3 W E ♦ Q 10 8 2 S or Q-J-9. Since you can see the nine ♠ 8 3 ♠ 6 ♣ Q J 9 8 ♣ K 3 in dummy, it must be the former. You ♥ A Q 6 2 N ♥ 10 9 3 ♠ A J 2 should overtake with the king and, if it ♦ K W E ♦ A Q 10 9 6 2 ♥ 10 9 8 2 S holds, continue the suit. ♣ 9 8 7 6 5 4 ♣ K J 3 ♦ A 5 4 Keeping the king would lead to a ♠ K Q 9 7 4 2 ♣ A 6 4 blockage if declarer takes the ace on the ♥ K 5 first or third round. ♦ J 4 ♣ A Q 10 West North East South 1NT1 Pass 2♣2 Pass 2♥ 2. ♠ A Q J 3 West North East South Pass 4♥ End ♥ K 10 1♦ 1♠ 112-14 ♦ J 8 3 Dbl1 3♠2 Pass 4♠ 2Stayman ♣ Q 10 6 2 End ♠ 8 7 ♠ 6 5 4 1Take-out Partner leads the ♣Q. What is your plan? ♥ 9 4 2 N ♥ J 8 7 3 2Pre-emptive Once again, partner has led an W E ♦ K Q 10 5 2 S ♦ A 7 honour and you must decide whether to ♣ K 8 4 ♣ J 9 7 3 Partner leads the ♦K. What is your plan? try to unblock the suit. On this occasion, ♠ K 10 9 2 Partner may have led top of a doubleton there are two reasons (given the presence ♥ A Q 6 5 or the king could be singleton. You cannot of the ♣10 in dummy) to accept the ♦ 9 6 4 tell which. While the doubleton is more blockage and duck. ♣ A 5 likely, the chance of beating the contract First, unlike on the second problem, if South has a singleton diamond seems you are not going to play two more slim. To cater for the possibility that the rounds of the suit quickly – declarer holds West North East South king is bare, you should overtake with the ace. Secondly, even if you could get 1NT1 the ace and return the queen. You do not to ruff the ♣10, you would be ruffing with Pass 2♣2 Pass 2♥ want to find yourself unable to get in to a natural trump trick. Pass 3NT Pass 4♠ cash the second diamond. In time, the contract should go End 112-14 2Stayman Which red suit you play after cashing down. ■

Page 33 From the Baron’s Archives by Dick Atkinson The Baron and the Forces of Darkness

must have seen the photograph a years. It was all bridge – Royal Auction to have sounded like a compliment, but hundred times on my uncle’s wall, Bridge at that time. Foster was one of the way he spat the words out seemed between his old fencing team at the top experts. You should know this. to express loathing, or something IHeidelberg and a slightly out of focus It was he who invented the Rule of worse. shot showing him in heroic pose with Eleven, before I was born.’ I couldn’t resist it. ‘So some English- a grounded rifle in his right hand ‘That long ago?’ I thought, but didn’t man got the better of you?’ and his left foot on the neck of a very dare say. ‘No. Briefly, that is all. And even to large, very dead bear. Although it ‘Foster also first suggested the achieve this he enlisted the Powers of must have been over eighty years ago, Chicago principle.’ My uncle stroked Evil.’ his aristocratic features and bearing his chin pensively. ‘There were other ‘How could—’ were somehow unmistakable. The experiments, too. There was an early ‘Judge for yourself!’ He snapped. ‘It middle photograph of the three, now form of Contract Bridge – the French was Rubber Bridge. This was the first that I looked closely, had the grainy called it Plafond. And Nullos, of deal and I was dealer, playing with Mr appearance of a news clipping and course. New varieties sprang up every Lenz, another notable expert of the there was a caption underneath. My month, were taken up briefly, and just day. I was East in this layout. South uncle was standing next to another as soon forgotten. That was before the was this Crowley person and he, of man, in early middle age, and both damned National Bridge Federations course, shuffled the cards and passed were in evening wear of the period. got a strangle-hold on the game.’ them to Foster to cut to me. Foster, I I looked more closely at the caption ‘Do you remember any hands from remember, dropped two or three cards to see who the other might be and those days?’ of the upper packet onto the table read, ‘Mr R.F. Foster introduces He waved at the photograph on the during the cut and casually replaced Mynheer Marinus van Loon to the wall. ‘You know my habits. I think them on top of the lower packet before Knickerbocker Whist Club.’ there will be a hand or two glued to completing the cut. ‘So what,’ you ‘Uncle Leo? Is this a mistake?’ I the back of the frame. Go ahead, go might say. But for some inexplicable asked. My uncle’s name is neither Mr on.’ reason my attention strayed to Foster nor Mynheer van Loon, but I lifted the thin, ebony frame from Crowley’s face during this procedure Baron Leopold von Münchausen. its brass hook and, sure enough, there and I saw a strange flicker of chagrin He saw the direction of my gaze. ‘Ah. were two deals recorded there. cloud his dark features. I was about New York, early 1918. I was travelling to pick up the deck when a steward on a Dutch passport . . . for a variety announced at the door, ‘Telephone call of reasons.’ ♠ A K 10 for Mr van Loon.’ I was rather shocked The mystery deepened. ‘But I ♥ 5 4 3 since, in my false identity, I had no thought you were an officer in the ♦ 5 4 2 acquaintance who might be aware of Great War?’ ♣ 6 4 3 2 my whereabouts. I was escorted to ‘Certainly,’ he replied, raising ♠ Q 7 4 2 ♠ J the telephone in an adjoining lounge, his eyebrows enigmatically, ‘but a ♥ J 8 N ♥ K 10 9 7 6 2 but when I put the ear-piece to my W E ♦ ♦ German uniform would have been A K 7 S Q J 10 9 8 ear, there was not a sound, just an even more out of place than a German ♣ J 9 8 5 ♣ 10 overwhelming impression of some name.’ ♠ 9 8 6 5 3 wickedly sardonic presence. A secret agent. I might almost have ♥ A Q I hung up and took a moment to pull guessed. I looked at the photo with ♦ 6 3 myself together. new interest. ‘You were a whist player ♣ A K Q 7 ‘I almost fled the club, fearing that in those days?’ my cover was blown, but my mission ‘Nein, nein. They hadn’t played was too important. I returned to the whist at the Knickerbocker for twenty ‘Ah, yes – the English wizard.’ It ought cardroom only to find that Crowley

Page 34 The Baron and the Forces... continued ♠ A ♠ 10 6 ♥ 5 ♥ 10 6 3 ♦ — ♦ A Q 10 3 2 had ‘inadvertently’ picked up the ♣ 6 ♣ A 7 6 cards and dealt. Strangely, neither my ♠ Q 7 ♠ — ♠ 8 7 5 3 ♠ Q J ­ partner nor Foster had noticed and ♥ — N ♥ K ♥ A K Q J N ♥ 9 7 5 W E W E ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ since Lenz had already started sorting — S Q J 8 6 4 S J 9 5 ‘his’ hand, I had to accept the misdeal ♣ J ♣ — ♣ 10 2 ♣ 9 8 5 4 3 with good grace. Crowley opened 1♠ ♠ 9 8 ♠ A K 9 4 2 and this was the full auction.’ ♥ — ♥ 8 4 2 ♦ — ♦ K 7 West North East South ♣ 7 ♣ K Q J Lenz Foster Baron Crowley 1♠ Pass Pass 2♥ Pass ‘The lead of the five of hearts threw ‘Don’t be ridiculous. If they don’t take Pass 2♠ 3♦ 3♠ me in to smother my partner’s appar- three hearts, I can discard one on the End ent trump winner. If only Lenz had third diamond and ten tricks are in switched to a club or a low trump, ten the bag.’ There was no answer to that. His pause invited comment. ‘The tricks would have been unmakeable; ‘So. What would you play as West perfect contract,’ I ventured in my but he was ... possessed.’ after three rounds of hearts?’ usual kami-kaze fashion. ‘Two ‘But it was only an overtrick.’ That was easy. ‘A fourth round, since diamonds, a club and a trump to lose.’ He fixed me with a gaze like a cock- it is clear from the strong bidding that The Baron harrumphed, sotto tail stick skewering an olive. ‘At Auc- there is no side-suit loser to dispose of voce, then continued, ‘The diamond tion, you score your game even if you if I give the ruff and discard.’ king was led. I discouraged with the don’t bid it. 3♠ plus one is 4♠ made.’ ‘Exactly what Crowley thought! But eight, Crowley making the obligatory ‘So Crowley used your diamond lead what if I discard my trump loser?’ deceptive play of the six of course, to take the trump finesse. And without ‘What?’ but Lenz pressed on with two more that spare loser for the throw-in, the The Baron glowed with self- rounds, under the influence of the trump trick couldn’t disappear. Hm.’ satisfaction. ‘I discarded a club in diabolical declarer.’ I filed that interesting fact away. ‘But I dummy, ruffing in hand.’ ‘Surely that is a perfectly good assume you got your revenge?’ ‘Foster could have ruffed high—’ Forcing Game,’ I offered sagely. ‘Eventually. On the following deal, ‘True – but he still nursed some hope ‘It is a Trump Coup! Declarer’s fifth Lenz’s 1NT as dealer was passed out of defeating 3♠, not merely preventing trump was simply an embarrassment. and he made nine tricks – game, of four, so he chose to retain his queen Crowley ruffed, played a spade to the course. and jack of spades and the jack, nine king, finessed the heart, cashed all of This was the second deal you see in and five of diamonds to kill North’s South’s honour cards and then took front of you – my deal at last. I have threatening tens. I played one high the spade finesse.’ put myself South, for convenience, trump and East dropped an honour. I was on surer ground now. ‘The since I was the declarer. I opened 1♠, I couldn’t make game if trumps were Principle of Restricted Choice . . .’ Lenz called 2♦ and I made a high re- 5-1, of course, so I assumed he held the ‘You spoke?’ verse with 3♣, looking for 3NT. With- queen-jack doubleton, as I had hoped ‘You play a top trump, and when the out a heart stopper, he gave me false from the start. I played two rounds of knave appears, you assume that it is a preference to 3♠, which I passed. At clubs, then three rounds of diamonds, singleton—’ Auction, don’t forget, I don’t have to stylishly ruffing the ace.’ ‘Why?’ bid the game to score it.’ He twirled his mustachios smugly. ‘I That was a bit below the belt. ‘You I looked at the second hand on the leave you once again to work out the ... er ... It’s a well known fact ...’ Stony reverse of the photograph frame. There ending.’ silence. ‘All right – why?’ were three hearts to lose. I played the I did. Club jack led, over-ruffed on ‘East has the jack of spades or the trumps through in my head: ace, three, the table and ... ‘Where the Devil did queen-jack of spades with roughly six, jack, then king, five, ten, queen that trump trick go?’ equal probability (actually 2.8% and leaves the eight-seven against South’s ‘Quite so. Indeed, in English you call 3.4% a priori). But with queen-jack he nine-four-two, so yes, an inescapable this the ‘Devil’s Coup’. Just a routine might well have played the queen half trump loser too. But I had learned my little bit of Münchausen wizardry of that time, so that the singleton is lesson. ‘Crowley seems to have four ... It involves here a sort of Criss- nearly 2 to 1 on (actually 62% at that winners. I suppose he didn’t take his Cross Grand Coup, cross-ruffing my stage). I am sure you can visualise the heart tricks, so you were able to exit winners. A most enjoyable rubber.’ ending.’ later somehow to trap his trump win- No spare loser, no throw-in ... I I did: ner? Like that last deal . . .’ unfiled that Interesting Fact ...

Page 35 The Baron and the Forces... continued Chatsworth Hotel Better Hand Worthing BN11 3DU Evaluation

♠ 10 17-19 Jan 2014 £245 Bernard Magee ♥ Bernard Magee — Introduction ♦ 10 3 NEW Better Leads TOPIC ♣ — & Switches Better Hand Evaluation is aimed at helping readers to ♠ ♠ 8 7 5 Q 31 Jan-2 Feb £199 add greater accuracy to their ♥ — N ♥ — Just Duplicate bidding. It deals with auctions ♦ — W E ♦ — in which you and your partner, S 7-9 Feb £169 ♣ — ♣ 9 8 against silent opponents, can Sheila Rogers describe your hands fully to ♠ K 9 Rubber / Chicago each other and, by evaluating ♥ — 14-16 Feb £199 them accurately, find the best ♦ — final contract. The emphasis of Just Duplicate ♣ all good, accurate bidding is on J 18-20 Oct £245 28 Feb-2 Mar £199 hand evaluation. Bernard Magee NEW TOPIC Just Duplicate There are two general types of Playing & auction: a) a fit is found and b) Author’s Note: Aleister Defending 1NT 21-23 Mar £199 no fit is found. Crowley was a famous, or Just Duplicate 15-17 Nov £245 When you do not have a fit, notorious, English Satanist, Bernard Magee 4-6 April £245 you are aiming to describe the who did indeed play bridge NEW strength of your hand as soon Bidding TOPIC Bernard Magee with R.F. Foster, inven- Distributional Hands Finding Slams as possible, most often using tor of the Rule of Eleven, no-trump bids. This book be- gins by discussing balanced back in 1917-1918. More Full Board – No Single Supplement hand bidding in Acol, as it importantly, Foster in- is very important that both Booking Form on page 8. vented a game called Pirate members of a partnership Bridge, which enabled the have an accurate knowledge of how to show hands of different two strongest hands on any strengths. deal to be played together, e.g. South with West. This When a fit is found, there is Ardington Hotel much re-evaluation of the was decided by the declarer, hand to be done; point count, who chose his dummy hand Worthing BN11 3DZ though still important, needs based on clues from the to be evaluated together with Auction. Pirate is long gone, distribution. The best way of reaching an accurate assess­ despite Foster’s belief that ment is to use the Losing Trick it would replace Auction, Count; this is an important but one innovation from method of hand evaluation and that game was adopted into takes up a number of chapters. bridge. Before Crowley (or Finally, we move on to different ‘the Great Beast’, as he liked forms of evaluation including ♣ game tries and splinter bids. to be known) a call of 3 You can never know enough (18 points) was insufficient BRIDGE EVENTS methods of hand evaluation; to overcall 2NT (20 points), the more you learn, the better etc. Crowley proposed the 27-29 September Just Duplicate Bridge £199 you get at judging your hand. present system of ‘Major- 25-27 October Just Duplicate Bridge £199 Although the Losing Trick ity Calling’. He is famous to Count is used more easily in 22-24 November Just Duplicate Bridge £199 tandem with your partner, a card enthusiasts for his Tar- 29 Nov – 1 Dec Just Duplicate Bridge £199 large proportion of the ideas ot Cards, a new and rather in this book can be used by an raunchy design (the ‘Thoth 24-26 Jan 2014 Declarer Play £215 individual. For example, eval- Tarot’). He was evidently in- 21-23 February Overcalls £215 uating your hand to be worth an extra point is going to help volved in all sorts of revolt- 14-16 March Take-Out Doubles £215 anyone you partner – as long ing rituals, including (alleg- (Improvers) as you get it right. ■ edly) human sacrifice. 11-13 April Hand Evaluation £215 £14 including postage Full Board – No Single Supplement Previously published See Mail Order Form on page 7. in BRIDGE 62. Booking Form on page 8.

Page 36 always beats you, it would ALL WINTER LONG surely be disconcerting. If On page 13 in BRIDGE 125, READERS’ you are looking solely for Fred Lawson asks about eight tutorials, then you could couples playing socially. choose from our list: In Bishopsteignton, Devon, Acol Bidding, Advanced we have eight couples in a Acol Bidding, Declarer Play, pairs’ competition lasting LETTERS Advanced Declarer Play, seven months, effectively the Defence or Five-card Majors. winter. We play 20 boards each month, dealt by the first ONE NEW SUBSCRIBER www.q-plus.com APPLICATIONS four to play them. We add The charge of £20 for 12 He so often tells what Further to my telephone call curtain cards and travellers to issues of your excellent QPlus achieved (usually a to your office supporting each board. The other three magazine is eminently poor result) and then, on the the need for Mac based matches, arranged in various reasonable. However, this right side of the page, you software for QPlus and your houses (with food and drink), does put Scotsmen like advertise QPlus software. associated training DVDs. are played within the month me in a terrible dilemma. Why buy it if it is so often Surely, with the explosion and then the travellers are I love the magazine, but to wrong or misjudged? of tablet computers, like scored as usual. So, for each pay for something which Jim Stirling, Weston the iPad and similar hand month, there is a N/S winner can be obtained free goes Favell, Northampton. held screens, there must and an E/W winner. Op- entirely against my DNA. be a huge potential for ponents for each month are Consequently, I downloaded Bernard Magee writes: sales of apps for these decided by a 4-table Howell BRIDGE 128 from your Bridge software allows you very mobile devices that movement. The first pair website and printed all 48 to play real bridge in your could well extend interest in listed are N/S. After seven pages. Of course, it proved own home. QPlus plays at bridge to a new market and months, each pair has played to be ‘penny wise, pound the standard of a reasonable maybe a younger profile. every other pair and the final foolish’ for I seemed to club player. It does very well I would have thought result is obtained by adding have used about three ink on most deals. However, it that your German software up each pairs’ percentage cartridges in the process. does do some very strange developer must surely have from each month. The sea- As I was calculating the ‘unhuman’ things, that looked at the potential son ends with a get-together cost, the magazine popped computers are prone to: income that could result. meal, prize giving and an through the letterbox. these mistakes stand out I would certainly find it evening’s bridge, which with I was inconsolable. because they seem so silly, handy when on holiday. invited friends may be a Nonetheless, after I dried but, actually, on other hands L Allery by email. 5/6-table Howell. Full details: my tears, I actually did you will see the computer bryan1newman@ something sensible and do better than humans. USEFUL CLUES btinternet.com ordered a subscription. Judgement in bridge Perhaps you could ask one Bryan Newman by email. It was hard to part with is extraordinarily difficult of your contributors to write the money, but I managed for computers because an article in praise of cue NEW WANTED it and felt so much better. of the three other players bidding. None of my current Hart Bridge Club in Fleet is However, my printed pages and especially the human partners will use it and I have looking for new players. We didn’t go entirely to waste. element. This is unlike chess, rarely come across anyone, play on Tuesday evenings at The only way I kept cool in where the one versus one even on cruises, except the 7pm. All standards welcome. the recent heat-wave was element allows for much bridge hosts, who do so. For more details contact to take four cold baths per more specific calculations. I am convinced of its Tony: [email protected] day. Before each bath I put Bridge calculations depend usefulness but I am in a ( 07984626118 or some pages into clear plastic on trusting all the information minority locally. Perhaps Nigel nigel.wiltshire@ pockets and read them in the that goes before – this will it needs another ‘puff’. btinternet.com bath. Not only did it make often lead a computer Sylvia Martinelli by email. Tony Baker by email. the cold more bearable, I to make plays based on think it must have helped previous information that my concentration, as I got end up looking silly. It must REDUCE THE COST OF YOUR POSTAGE all the quizzes correct. be stressed that QPlus is Postage stamps for sale at 90% of face-value, Ian Dalziel, Troon. not tutorial software: we all mint with full gum. Quotations for have created a whole range commercial quantities available on request. QPLUS of products to help you Values supplied in 100s, higher values available as well I am a bit mystified when improve your game; but it as 1st and 2nd class (eg 2nd class: 100x37p+100x13p) reading Bernard Magee’s will allow you to have great (/Fax 020 8422 4906 e-mail: [email protected] weekly submission. fun playing hands. If it

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A415MB Simply cut out the coupon and send (no stamp needed) to: FREEPOST ERIC HILL, Carriage House, Forde Road, Newton Abbot TQ12 4EY WILLOW PATTERN READERS’ LETTERS What is not arguable is continued that any director receiv- CHARITY BRIDGE EVENTS ing pay for services ren- dered has a duty to declare 21 VALE HOUSE those earnings to HMRC. OCTOBER 2013 ALZHEIMERS HOME ANSWERS WANTED Can anybody throw light 2 FRIENDS OF 10.30am-3.30pm (coffee I wonder if you or any of on this question please? SUSSEX HOSPICES from 10am). Informal Glyndebourne Opera House, your many readers could Mr Fred Taylor, bridge drive, St Peter & St The Mildmay Hall at 12 Paul Chuch Hall, West Way, answer the following query? Framfield Bridge Club, noon. Champagne reception Botley, Oxford OX2 9JY. We pay our directors East Sussex. and lunch. A choice of £15pp to include lunch because they not only direct, Chicago or rubber. £25. with a glass of wine. Dianne Steele but they also undertake to WORKING RULES Prize and raffle. ( 01435 813630 Ann Day ( 01865 248156 play with the weakest player I am a very average club 4 ST ANDREW’S CHURCH [email protected] without a partner as well as bridge player and as such it Mandeville Hall. 22 ST DOMINIC’S CHURCH prepare tea and coffee and goes without saying I do not Kimbolton. £14.00. APPEAL FUND deal with the washing-up. know the laws of the game. Mavis Campion Bridge Drive at St. Dominic’s ( We have heard, although Reading David Stevenson’s 01480 860477 Church Hall, Jubilee Road it is mainly anecdotal, that answers to questions relating 4 RNLI (off Kingshill Road), Dursley, Bridge drive. Salwarpe 1.30-5pm. £5 each to some clubs have been to the Laws and Ethics, Village Hall, Droitwich include afternoon tea. asked by HMRC to deduct it seems clear to me that WR9 0AH. 10.30 for 11am Pat Uglow tax on the amounts paid. many club directors do not £12pp inc. buffet lunch. ( 01453 542179 Having flirted with tax know the laws either. Pam ( 01905 381395 Richard Gwyer ( 01453 860512 legislation during my working At my golf club, I served for 5 Treetops’ Hospice life, I find it hard to believe several years as competition Rubber bridge tournament. NOVEMBER 2013 10 for 10.30am till 3pm. that clubs are liable, but I convenor. I was presented Treetops’ Hospice, Derby 2 EYE CANCER RESEARCH accept that legislation has with numerous ‘situations’ Road, Risley, Derby DE72 Reynolds Institute, moved on and it may now be requiring interpretation on 3SS. £10 inc. buffet lunch. Weymouth. £30 per table including excellent tea. the case that tax is deductible the rules of golf, which are Barbara Saville ( 01159 282689 Val Pierce and payable by the club. numerous and complex. ( 01305 833686 My argument that no tax My job was made easier by 11 ST MARGARET’S SOMERSET Gene Hill HOSPICE. Wedmore Village ( 01305 786509 needs to be deducted by the the powers that be having Hall. 10.30 for 11.00am. club rests on the assumption produced a book entitled £16 each to include lunch. 7 EACH (East Anglia’s that our directors are self- Decisions on the Rules of Brian Moreton Children’s Hospice) Bridge Drive, 2.00pm. employed and not employees Golf, where each ( 01934 713854 brianjillmoreton Rysbygate Club, Westley Rd, of the club. The definition of rule is listed and followed @btinternet.com Bury St Edmunds IP33 3RR. employment generally centres by ‘decisions‘ based on Lynda Moore 13 BREAST CANCER CAMPAIGN around how much control the circumstances requiring ( 01359 241534 1.00 for 1.30pm. £20 each. [email protected] person involved has over his interpretation on that Blue Pointed Duplicate Pairs, 14 RNLI. Crowborough Beacon work. If he/she is obliged to specific rule. Perhaps this sponsored by Billericay Golf Club bridge tea. carry out instructions from is what bridge requires, Mayflower BC. Two-course buffet supper. First Class 1.30 for 2pm start. an employer and appear at thereby removing individual Bridge Academy, Barleylands £26 per table. certain times in certain places interpretations leading to Centre, Billericay. Penny ( 01825 830006 then he/she is likely to be an wrong outcomes. In BRIDGE Marcia ( 07789 003284 14 HUDDERSFIELD PENNINE employee. If however, as is 127, a question mentions marcia ROTARY CLUB @newdirectionstudio.co.uk Outlane Golf Club. 12 for the case with our directors, Law 13c, Law 12c and the 19 SALTERS HILL CHARITY 12.30pm. £44 per table. they have total control over answer lay with Law 14. Now Cheltenham Bridge Club. Sam Smith when they choose to direct I am sure David Stevenson 10.30am-4pm. £15pp £60 ( 01924 492540 and total control over how has answered so many of per table including lunch. 22 ST MARY’S CHURCH they carry out their function these questions already that Mary Ann Rust Eaton Socon, St Neots. ( 01242 245392 e.g. what system of move- the book of Decisions on the 10.00 for 10.30am. £13.50. Malcolm Howarth ments they will use, then I Laws of Bridge has already 21 Macmillan Cancer Care The Mary Rose Charity ( 01480 212910 believe they are self-em- been written. It probably Bridge Luncheon. MARCH 2014 ployed and should be treated just needs pulling together. 12.00pm. Balmoral Golf in the same way as, say, What do you think? Club, Belfast 9. Duplicate/ 11 ST NEOTS’ BOWLING CLUB gardeners who come every Alex Brown, Rubber. £50 per table. St Neots, Cambs. Rosarie Heatherington 10.00 for 10.30am. £14.00. ■ week to mow your lawn. Polmont, Falkirk. ( 07790 483999 John Shaw

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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 Covers accidental loss, theft or damage to your personal luggage subject to a limit of £200 for any service, the police requiring you to remain at or return to your home due to serious one article, pair or set and an overall limit of £200 for valuables such as cameras, Jewellery, furs, damage to your home, you are 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 The cost of hospital and other emergency medical expenses incurred abroad, including additional to either (a) £20 for the first 12 hours and £10 for each further 12 hours delay up to a maximum 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. See section headed Increased Excess for Pre Existing Medical Conditions for increased PERSONAL LIABILITY up to £2,000,000 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. 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 Pre Existing Medical Conditions The following represents only the main exclusions. The policy document sets out all of the You only need to undergo medical screening if You are travelling to Area 4, on a Cruise, conditions and exclusions. A copy of the full policy wording is available on request in writing prior or for a period in excess of 31 days. For all other Trips there is no need to advise us of to application. your pre existing medical conditions. If you have a history of any medical condition and are travelling within Area 4 or on a Cruise, MAIN HEALTH EXCLUSIONS you must first contact Towergate Medical Screening Line to establish whether we can provide Insurers will not pay for claims arising cover for your trip. 1. Where You (or any person upon whose health the Trip depends) have or have had symptoms The number to call is: 0844 892 1698 which are awaiting or receiving investigation, tests, treatment, referral or the results of any of the foregoing, unless We have agreed in writing to cover You. If you are accepted, the level of excess stated below will apply. You will receive written 2. From any terminal illness suffered by You (or any person upon whose health the Trip depends). confirmation that you are covered for the trip. In the event that you are not accepted for cover 3. From any medical condition for which You (or any person upon whose health the Trip depends) having been screened, we may be able to offer you cover under our Single Trip “PLUS” have within 12 months prior to the date of issue of this insurance been diagnosed with a medical product. Please ask us for further details or go to our website. 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 INCREASED EXCESS FOR Pre Existing may be required during the duration of the Trip. Medical Conditions

OTHER GENERAL EXCLUSIONS Acceptance of pre existing medical conditions is made by the application of increased Claims arising from excesses in the event of claims arising from the pre existing condition. 1. Winter sports, any hazardous pursuits, any work of a non sedentary nature. If You already suffer from or have a history of any medical condition, the following excess will 2. Self inflicted injury or illness, suicide, alcoholism or drug abuse, sexual disease. apply (other than in respect of claims that are specifically excluded) : 3. War, invasion, acts of foreign enemies, hostilities or warlike operations, civil war, rebellion, Under the Cancellation or Curtailment section – double the normal excess. Terrorism, revolution, insurrection, civil commotion, military or usurped power but this Under the Medical & Other Expenses section – exclusion shall not apply to losses under Section 3 – Medical Expenses unless such losses are caused by nuclear, chemical or biological attack, or the disturbances were already For persons aged 60 years or less the excess is increased to £500 Areas 1&2, £750 Area 3, taking place at the beginning of any Trip. £1,000 Area 4 or on a Cruise. 4. Failure or fear of failure or inability of any equipment or any computer program. For persons aged 61 to 90 years the excess is increased to £1,000 Areas 1&2, £1,500 Area 5. Bankruptcy/liquidation of any tour operator, travel agent, airline, transportation company or 3, £2,000 Area 4 or on a Cruise. accommodation supplier. Please note that we consider a Cruise to be a Trip by sea in a liner calling at a number of ports. 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. ✄ This insurance is arranged by Global Travel Insurance Services Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and our status can be checked on the FCA Register by visiting www.fca.org.uk or by contacting the FCA on 0845 606 9966. This Single Trip Travel Insurance Insurance is underwritten by ETI – International Travel Protection, the Suitable for a single round trip starting and finishing in the UK United Kingdom branch of Europäische Reiseversicherung (ERV) A.G.. and Channel Islands, is of no more than 94 days duration, ERV is authorised by the Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht for persons whose age is 90 years or less. (BAFIN – www.bafin.de) and the Prudential Regulation Authority and subject to limited regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority and Global Travel Insurance Prudential Regulation Authority. The Turret, 25 Farncombe Road, Worthing, BN11 2AY. ( 01903 235042 Fax 01903 229389

SINGLE TRIP INSURANCE PRODUCT SUITABILITY SINGLE TRIP APPLICATION FORM

Please FULLY complete the following in BLOCK CAPITALS. Once complete, As this description contains the Key Features of the cover provided it return the application panel direct to Global Travel Insurance at the address constitutes provision of a statement of demands and needs. above, with a cheque or with card details entered. Insurance is not effective This insurance is suitable for a single round trip starting and finishing until a Policy has been issued. in the UK and Channel Islands, is of no more than 94 days duration, for persons whose age is 90 years or less. Title (Mr/Mrs/Miss) Initials This insurance is only available to persons who are permanently resident and domiciled in the UK and Channel Islands. Surname

Telephone No. Single Trip PREMIUM RATING SCHEDULE House Number/Name GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS 1. United Kingdom – England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Street Name Isle of Man, including all islands comprising the British Isles (except the Channel Islands and the Republic of Ireland). Any British Isles or UK Town Name Cruises are rated as Area 2. 2. Europe – Continental Europe west of the Ural mountain range, Postcode all countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea (except, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya & Syria), the Channel Islands and the Republic Date of leaving Home of Ireland, Iceland, Madeira, The Canaries and The Azores. (Persons residing in the Channel Islands need to pay Area 2 rates for UK trips). Date of arrival Home 3. Worldwide – All countries outside of the above (except those within Area 4). Screening Ref 4. North America, Central America & The Caribbean – Bahamas, Belize, Bermuda, Canada, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Greenland, Introducer Mr Bridge Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, The Caribbean Islands, United States of America. Geographical Area – See Premium Panel (1,2,3 or 4) SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS Names of all persons to be insured Age Premium The following Premiums are valid for policies issued up to 31/3/2014 and for travel completed by 31/12/2014. Maximum age is 90 1 £ years. For periods in excess of 31 days please call for a quotation. Maximum period of insurance is 94 days. All premiums include the 2 £ Government Insurance Premium Tax (IPT). 3 £ Geographical Areas 4 £ Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Persons Aged up to 80 Years 5 £ 1 – 3 days £16.10 £24.70 £51.80 £74.50 6 £ 4 & 5 days £19.40 £31.10 £65.10 £93.80 6 -10 days £22.60 £41.90 £88.20 £126.30 Credit/Debit Card Details TOTAL PREMIUM £ 11-17 days £25.80 £45.90 £98.10 £141.30 18-24 days £29.00 £52.70 £110.40 £159.10 Card No 25-31 days £32.30 £60.00 £125.70 £181.00 Start Date End Date Issue No Persons Aged 81 to 90 Years 1 – 3 days £24.15 £37.05 £103.60 £149.00 Security Code 4 & 5 days £29.10 £46.65 £130.20 £187.60 DECLARATION 6 -10 days £33.90 £62.85 £176.40 £252.60 On behalf of all persons listed in this application, I agree that this application shall 11-17 days £38.70 £68.85 £196.20 £282.60 be the basis of the Contract of Insurance. I agree that Insurers may exchange 18-24 days £43.50 £79.05 £220.80 £318.20 information with other Insurers or their agents. I have read and understood 25-31 days £48.45 £90.00 £251.40 £362.00 the terms and conditions of the insurance, with which all persons above are in agreement and for whom I am authorised to sign. PREMIUM ADJUSTMENTS All age adjustments apply to the age on the date of return to the UK Signed...... Date...... Infants up to 2 years inclusive are FREE subject to being included with an The form MUST be signed by one of the persons to be insured on behalf of all persons to be insured. adult paying a full premium. Mr Bridge is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Global Travel Insurance Children 3 to 16 years inclusive are HALF PRICE subject to being included Services Ltd, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. with an adult paying a full premium. Unaccompanied children pay the adult rate.

✄ 429STI13 Catching Up by Sally Brock

irst there was the continuing a European or World team champion- My 2NT response was game-forcing saga with my mother. It turned ship, you have a team of six and so it with four-card heart support. Barry’s out that they gave her a hip re- is rare to play more than 32 boards a 3♥ showed extra values and a single- Fplacement. On the Wednesday after- day (there are usually 48 in total these ton club. As it turned out, North held wards, Briony and I went over on a days). I am a lot older than I was when ♥Q-10-x, but also the ♦K, so twelve daytrip, partly to visit her and partly I used to play the whole lot (more or tricks were made. to cheer up my father who was feeling a less), the whole lot being 64 boards. bit down and lonely (and bored having The first session of the final was- ex read all the books he took with him). citing. We bid three slams in the ten Board 9. Dealer West. N/S Vul. She seemed very confused but not in boards. You might like to bid them ♠ J ♠ A 8 3 any pain. On the Friday, she was taken with your favourite partner: ♥ K 10 N ♥ A 7 5 W E back to England by air ambulance and ♦ K 10 8 7 4 2 S ♦ A Q J 6 delivered to the Royal United Hospi- ♣ A Q 6 3 ♣ 9 8 7 tal in Bath. After a couple of weeks Board 3. Dealer South. E/W Vul. there, she moved to the nearer cottage ♠ A K Q 8 2 ♠ 10 6 5 3 hospital in Chippenham. Everything ♥ Q 5 4 3 N ♥ J West North East South W E seems under control, but it’s going to ♦ Void S ♦ Q 8 6 1♦ Pass 2♣ Pass take a while. Then there were Briony’s ♣ A Q J 2 ♣ K 9 8 7 3 3♠ Pass 6♦ All Pass exams. She has been working really hard, but it has been very stressful and Barry and I don’t have a lot of systemic none of them have gone as well as she West North East South agreements – because he forgets them. would have liked. 1♠ 2♦ 3♠ Dbl One gap in our armoury is that we June 12th was my sixtieth birthday. 4♦ 4♥ Pass Pass don’t have a forcing raise in diamonds. I spent the day with my family, visit- 4♠ Pass Pass 5♦ So I had to invent a club suit. When ing my mother (and getting a speeding Pass Pass 5♥ Pass he bid 3♠ to show a singleton spade ticket). The following day, I took some 6♠ All Pass and a club fit, I thought I had better friends out for lunch at a boat/restau- get us back to diamonds quickly. On rant moored on the Victoria Embank- My 3♠ was pre-emptive, South’s dou- a heart lead, he eliminated the majors ment. I can recommend it. When I was ble showed hearts and diamond sup- and drew trumps before running the researching the lunch, I discovered port and Barry’s 4♦ showed shortage. I ♣7: a 100% line of play. that if you want to find a pub or actual was perhaps a bit wet not to bid on over In the Mixed Teams, we hitched up restaurant on the river then the meals 4♠, but when I got a second chance I with one of my best friends, multiple seem extremely overpriced, but the showed my heart shortage and Barry world champion Karen McCallum boats that are moored there offer very was able to TTSL (Teach Them a Sharp from the USA and her Turkish-Amer- reasonable food and drink at sensible Lesson). Luckily, spades were 2-2 so ican partner Cenk Tuncok. I’m afraid prices. It’s funny how easy it is to have there wasn’t a problem. we were a bit of a disappointment and a good time with people you were at we finished below average. school with and have hardly seen over Then Barry went home and Nicola the intervening years. Board 5. Dealer West. E/W Vul arrived for the women’s teams. We The following day, Barry and I went ♠ A 7 ♠ K 5 3 2 played with Karen and her regular on Eurostar to Ostend for the Europe- ♥ A J 6 5 4 N ♥ K 9 8 3 woman partner Lynn Baker, along with W E an Open Championships. We started ♦ Q J 10 7 6 S ♦ A 3 a Dutch pair Marion Michielsen and out in the Mixed Pairs, where we qual- ♣ K ♣ A Q 4 Meike Wortel. After a bad start, we ral- ified for the final in the middle of the lied and were quite well placed to qual- field and eventually finished 12th out ify (needing to be in the top four), but of 52. We both got very tired and made West North East South we seemed to get quite a tough draw on a huge number of really silly mistakes. 1♥ Pass 2NT Pass the second day and finished fifth. I guess we should have expected that 3♥ Pass 3♠ Pass Then I had a couple of days off Barry would struggle with 50 boards 4♣ Pass 4♦ Pass (needed for some Bradt work), before I a day for a number of days as he hasn’t 4NT1 Pass 5♣2 Pass played in the women’s pairs with Anita played for more than two days at a 5♦3 Pass 5♥4 Pass Sinclair. It was a pretty tough field and time before. I was surprised and dis- 6♥ All Pass although we could have done a lot bet- appointed at my own performance. In 1RKBC 21 or 3 3Trump Q? 4No ter, finishing above average was OK. ■

Page 42 Seven Days by Sally Brock

Sunday doesn’t want to eat fish. Oh well, you The bidding was the same at both can’t win ‘em all. tables: When I booked my Eurostar ticket to and from Brussels, I forgot that I also West North East South needed to get to and from Ostend. Pass 1♥ Pass 1♠ Not very intelligent. My 9am Eurostar Monday Pass 2NT Pass 3♠ departure from Brussels necessitates I have work to do: Oman, which is Pass 4♠ All Pass a 6.43am train from Ostend. The proving difficult because of the Arabic, journey passes off peacefully enough needs a fair amount of work. Arabic is I’m not sure whether anyone knew and Barry meets me at St Pancras to right-to-left reading, so when you copy if 3♠ was forcing or not, but I don’t take me to High Wycombe. It’s always across an Arabic word from a Word think anyone cared. It seems clear to so good to get home after a long time document (the author, who is a Middle raise to four spades anyway with my away. Both children had had separate East specialist, has software to work in maximum and good controls. week’s holidays in the Canary Islands Arabic), it appears backwards. I don’t At my table, West starts with a top in my absence so there was plenty to think there is a way to do it without in- club and then switches to a passive talk about. Toby enjoyed himself with vesting in expensive software, so I am trump. My partner, Robert Sheehan, three good friends in Tenerife. Briony going to have to copy in each Arabic wins, cashes the other top spade and went to Gran Canaria with half a place name as a small graphic file. But plays a second club. West now switches dozen other girls, most of whom she that’s for the next set of proofs, so I can to a diamond and Robert plays safely, didn’t know quite so well and she didn’t put off thinking about it for a while. rising with the ace, discarding a heart have such a good time. But she looks In the afternoon, we have a Hubert on the queen of clubs, cashing the ♥A fabulous with her tan. Phillips match. I managed to arrange and ruffing a heart to hand to draw the We unpack and show each other this from Ostend as it seemed to be the last trump and concede a diamond. clothes we have bought, put the only date all eight team members could Even looking at all four hands, it washing machine on and then head manage. We start at 4pm at the Young doesn’t seem obvious how 4♠ might go off to the supermarket to stock up on Chelsea against Nicholas Davidson’s down against any sort of sensible play, some food. Back for a late chicken London-based team. It is a most enjoy- but actually it is quite straightforward. salad lunch in the garden. I have agreed able match which we win fairly easily. When you are defending in West’s that we might go on a holiday together This is an unexpected (by me) gain: type of position, after the top club for a few days at the end of August. We lead, you need to ask yourself whether think driving along the Mediterranean to be active or passive. And that partly coast from Nice to Pisa and back again Dealer West. Game All. depends on how many clubs partner might be fun and spend a fair part of ♠ A K has. If partner has three clubs then the afternoon planning exactly when ♥ A 9 6 4 you might as well be passive and and where to go. ♦ A Q 8 3 continue the suit, or switch to a trump; I’m quite proud that Briony has ♣ Q 7 6 if partner has four clubs, however, you recently been prepared to try eating ♠ 6 3 2 ♠ Q 10 may need to set up a trick to cash when fish, a hitherto ‘disgusting’ idea. She ♥ 8 2 N ♥ K J 10 7 5 you get in with your other top club. ♦ K 9 7 5 W E ♦ 10 6 ♣ had salmon on holiday and tonight S Here, when the Q is in the dummy, we try monkfish with a tomato sauce ♣ A K 9 2 ♣ 10 5 4 3 partner should be telling you how – perhaps not quite so good, but I ♠ J 9 8 7 5 4 many clubs he holds at trick one. am really impressed that she’s giving ♥ Q 3 When you see that he has four clubs, it a go. Toby, on the other hand, who ♦ J 4 2 you know that a diamond switch is has previously seemed prepared to ♣ J 8 pointless as any defensive diamond try most things, has now decided he trick you may have is too slow,

Page 43 Seven Days continued Wednesday they can have a pre-dance drink and have lots of photos taken. I get up early as I still have a couple of Home for a while and then back to hours’ work to do before I can send off Lauren’s to take a carload (owners of but if partner has the ♥K, you need to Oman and I need to get it done. seven-seater cars are very popular) of switch to a heart now. Later I take Briony to her riding girls and boys to Pinewood Studios for That is what Barry does at the other lesson and stay and watch – not the the ball. table. Declarer plays low and East, best week to watch as her regular Back in time to have dinner with Gunnar Hallberg, wins his king and horse is poorly and she has to ride Toby and Barry (Toby’s turn to cook plays a second club (he knows there is the real beginners’ favourite, Pepper, – turkey chilli was surprisingly good). some urgency to cash the second club whom she can barely get to walk, let We spend the evening in front of the or declarer might be able to discard it alone trot, canter or jump. We cut the TV going through some of the hands on the ace of hearts). West now plays a lesson short and drive off down the from Ostend – how quickly you forget. diamond. What is declarer to do? Take M4 towards my parents. Then, at midnight, it’s back to the finesse and go down if East has the We pick up my father and go to the Pinewood Studios for the home run. It king? Or rise with the ace and hope to pub for lunch and then to Chippenham seems that a jolly good time was had be able to discard all his diamonds? In Hospital to visit my mother. She is by all. Fall into bed exhausted at about practice, he rises with the ♦A, plays a coming along quite well and has been 1.30am. heart to his queen, cashes the ♠A-K, given a provisional discharge date a discards one diamond on the ♣Q and week away, but she does need to be another on the ♥A … but West ruffs able to walk with a zimmer frame with and the contract is one down. only one helper before they will let her Friday After the match, Robert takes us out go. She is worried they are not letting I’ve been looking forward to this for an excellent Thai meal in South her practise enough. She is much more weekend for a long time. We are going Kensington. It is good to be able to like her former self now. to Aldeburgh for a silver wedding play the match early enough to have We play some cards – she’s not quite anniversary party at Richard and dinner afterwards. up to bridge yet, but we start with Jenni’s country retreat (that’s the Beggar My Neighbour (which goes on Richard of Richard and Gerry, my and on and on and on – it never finishes regular online students). but eventually we’ve had enough) and We leave High Wycombe at about Tuesday then play Sevens for a while. All while 10am and are travelling roughly at I stay over in London and drive home in watching Andy Murray losing the first the same time as Simon. There is an time for lunch. I have been questioning set of the quarter-final at Wimbledon. accident on the A14 which holds us up this Mediterranean holiday. I’m game We get home in the early evening for a while but we finally meet up for if Briony really wants to do it, but I’m and collapse in front of The Apprentice, lunch just before Aldeburgh at a farm not sure the Med in August is really a painting our toenails. shop. good idea. After lunch, we check in at our hotel I send off a few emails to people who before turning up at Richard’s. Prep- I think might have a personal opinion arations are underway; everything and the answer is a resounding, ‘you Thursday looks remarkably under control. The must be mad’. Up early and out to the gym. These house looks lovely and there is a huge There is no point in working for days, if I don’t go early I never seem to garden, some of which is covered by a a travel guide company if you don’t get there at all. couple of pretty large marquees. We get a bit of free advice from time to Today is the day of Briony’s school have a cup of tea and sit in on Rich- time, so I send off another email and ball. She has a beautiful Ted Baker ard and Gerry’s system discussion Slovenia is highly recommended. So dress and pink shoes at least eight with Simon before heading back to the I send Briony off on a new tack to do inches high. She’s going to look hotel for a short rest. At seven, we are some online research and it looks fabulous but there are decisions to be back for a fish pie supper and instead promising. Flights are cheaper, but we made. We play about with her hair of my regular online lesson we play at have really set our sights on hiring a a bit but it is apparent that in that the table for a while with all kibitzers convertible car and that seems very department I am fairly useless and the welcome. expensive. We’re still undecided. friend whose house she is changing at I’m still working hard on Oman but is much more likely to be helpful. take a break later in the afternoon to After lunch, we go and have a go to the gym (it’s been a while). manicure. Then we pick up Briony’s Saturday There’s a problem with Briony’s car car (which costs a fortune) and I take After a sumptuous English breakfast, so we take it to the garage for them to her to Lauren’s where she is going to all made to order, we visit Barry’s sis- have a look. Then it’s a shower, supper change. All her other friends are going ter Carol, who has a small cottage in a and more Oman in front of the TV. to join them in advance of the ball so neighbouring village. Then, at one,

Page 44 Seven Days continued (the lemon cheesecake is win by 13. delicious). Fish and chips A very pleasing result are handed round at about against a good team. Mr Bridge 11.30pm. And I believe ba- The decisive deal from we are back at Richard’s for con butties about 1.30am, the last set is this slam the official afternoon bridge though I confess I had gone hand which is not a good 2014 drive. to bed by then (no staying advertisement for opening There are twelve tables of power). light. regular bridge, i.e. the par- There is a live band, fol- Bridge ticipants are or have been lowed by a disco. And a fairly regular players, but cocktail bar. Also going on Dealer East. Game All. Players’ also another ten tables or are table football, table ten- ♠ 8 7 ♠ A J 6 5 N so of people whose previ- nis and a couple of bouncy- ♥ A K Q J W E ♥ 6 4 ous experience has been ex- castle-for-semi-adult games ♦ Void S ♦ Q J 6 5 4 Diaries tremely limited. provide good spectator ♣ A Q J 10 9 6 5 ♣ K 8 For example, Benita, sport. Gerry’s wife, has only ever And to cap it all they have played three hands before. managed to arrange perfect Our bidding is: This may prove taxing for weather. tournament director, Mar- West North East South tin Lee. Pass Pass I am drawn to play with 1♣ 1♦ 1♠ Pass David, who was Richard Sunday 2♥ Pass 3NT Pass and Jenni’s best man. He After a second sumptuous 4♣ Pass 4♠ Dbl Pass Pass Rdbl Pass learnt to play at school with breakfast (all that food yes- Contents include Richard but has been too terday doesn’t seem to have 6♣ All Pass busy to play much since, dented my appetite this ♦ Acol Summary or so he says. In truth, he morning), we set off for Sur- My final 6♣ bid is by Bernard Magee. played very well. Barry and rey where we have a Gold something of an overbid. I ♦ Guide to the Laws. Simon were also drawn Cup match against Frances should have bid 4NT which, with friends of Richard Hinden’s team. for us, is just a further slam ♦ Scoring Tables for duplicate and and we three ‘professionals’ The original plan had try, leaving it to Barry to rubber bridge. filled the top three places. I been to go around the M25 bid the slam because of his am pleased to say that the to get there, an estimated ♣K. But I like bidding slams ♦ Distributional odds. right person was at the top two-and-three-quarter- and know it can’t be worse ♦ Hand patterns and of the list. hour journey. However, than a finesse. I know with fascinating figures. I would like to stress the Barry wants to pick up some certainty that a grand slam ♦ Cover colours: quality of the hospital- papers from Chambers is out of the question. Red, Navy, Tan, Black, ity. When we arrived, there and Gerry’s son and his In the other room, East Ivory, Green, Burgundy, was a barbecue, with ex- girlfriend need to get to opens 1♦ and after a lot Cambridge Blue. cellent burgers, sausages London, so we decide to go of artificial bidding West ♦ All covers printed in and mushrooms. Halfway through central London identifies that there are gold-coloured ink. through the bridge, we had instead. It is hard to estimate no key cards missing. He ♦ Individual diaries £6.95 a pause for afternoon tea: how long that takes, even on thinks that East has to have each including p&p. sandwiches, scones with a Sunday and we arrive 40 some combination of cards cream and strawberries, minutes late for the match, in spades and diamonds (or ♦ Special concession to clubs and teachers. and some excellent cake. in a pretty stressful state. perhaps three trumps in a 10 for £35, At six, we all go off in a The rules are that for every 3-2-5-3 distribution where thereafter £3.50 each bus back to the various ho- 15 minutes late you lose two two spades can be discarded including p&p. tels for a very quick rest and boards and the opponents on hearts) to make the ♦ Luxury version with super- to change into our glad rags get 3 IMPs a board. So we grand slam either cold or at soft kidrell cover, gilded before being bussed back for start with only a four-board least playable. page edges and a ball-point pen attached, the evening session. We are set and a 12 IMP deficit. So there they are in in ruby red, navy blue greeted with a choice of hog At the end of that first set, a grand slam that has or bottle green. roast or paella (actually it we are a net 6 IMPs up. The virtually no play at all. £14.95 each including p&p. isn’t really a choice because match is close throughout We head off to the pub it is perfectly OK to have with neither side being for a quick drink before See Mail Order both). There is a stall serv- ahead by double figures driving to High Wycombe, Form on page 7. ing homemade ice-creams until the very end when we via Shepherds Bush. ■

Page 45 C1216 A16MB Mr Bridge Joanna 297x210_Layout 1 05/04/2013 12:36 Page 1

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There are no catches. Simply order your size & send the special coupon below but PLEASE DO NOT SEND MONEY. We'll send your order together with our invoice. Inspect & wear at home for a week. If you are happy with it, simply pay the invoice. If you are not satisfied, return in any condition, post free and you owe us nothing! Why are we making such an offer…we want you to see and feel the quality for yourself, at home and at your leisure. Joanna Top by Poppy ONLY £25 EACH This easy-to-wear top is a comfortable classic that you'll get loads of wear out of. Cut from Poppy's famous soft, high-quality jersey that keeps its shape and colour, it's smartly finished with a step-neckline that comes up nice and high, short sleeves and a deep hem. j Sizes 10-28 j Length 23" j Blue or White j 65% polyester, 35% cotton j Machine washable at 40°

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0844ANYTIME 324 DAY OR NIGHT8538 FREEPOST ERIC HILL, Carriage House, Forde Road, Newton Abbot TQ12 4EY

Please send me the JOANNA TOP in the size(s) and colour(s) I have indicated below. I understand that I do not need to pay for them now. I can inspect and wear them at home for 7 days. Once I am completely happy with them, I will pay your invoice. A postage and packing fee of £4.95 will be charged on payment. Should I be dissatisfied, in any way, I can send them back POST FREE (in any condition) and I will not owe you a penny. PRODUCT SIZE QTY PRICE CODE BLUE TOP £25 2289 Title Full name WHITE TOP £25 2289 BLUE PATTERN SKIRT £49 1513 Telephone BLACK TROUSERS £39 2291 Address

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A416MB Joanna Top in White FREEPOST ERIC HILL, Carriage House, Forde Road, Newton Abbot TQ12 4EY Jeremy Dhondy Says Use the Rule of Fifteen

ow do you decide whether to You deal and pass and, after two more open the bidding in fourth seat? Hand 2 passes, your right-hand opponent opens It’s a funny question really. Why ♠ 9 4 1♠ in fourth seat. Would you overcall Hshould it differ from any other position? ♥ Q 4 2♦? You might, but it is unsound and We are probably used to having some ♦ K Q 10 6 3 dangerous to do so at least, in part, different rules about whether we open ♣ K J 9 2 because you must proceed to the two and what we open with marginal hands level to do so. The risk of conceding a – perhaps the rule of 20 or the rule of penalty is higher at this level. 22. Whatever we do, we often open a bit Assuming you would open 1♠ on hand How do you decide when to open? lighter in third seat because partner has 1, why wouldn’t you open 1♦ on hand This is where the ‘Rule of 15’ comes in. already passed and we might make an 2? I would always open 1♠ with the first It applies when you are in fourth seat opponent’s life just a bit more difficult. hand, but think carefully about the sec- after three passes. You add your number If we are undisciplined in first seat, we ond and probably pass. The reason for of high card points to your number of may put the opponents off but partner this is that, with hand 1, we hold the spades. If the answer is 15+, you open may be the one with a good hand and highest ranked suit and opening will the bidding. If it is 14 or fewer, you pass. not appreciate our marginal pre-empt. make it quite hard for the opponents to Like most rules of this nature, it is Likewise, we often hear that the time to come in. Even if they do come in, we will intended only as a guideline to help be soundest is in second position when be able to outbid them at the same level when you have a marginal hand. Say you vulnerable. This is because the danger of should they compete and we have a fit. hold the following hand: a penalty is high and partner has not yet On the second hand, if I open 1♦ I have had a chance to call. So there are tactics given my left-hand opponent an easy en- according to position just as much as try into the auction if he has a five-card Hand 5 according to vulnerability. major. If he does come in and his partner ♠ 8 5 In the last seat, some openings are no has something of a fit, they will outbid us ♥ K Q 7 longer sensible. For example, opening and may win the contract in two or three ♦ A J 8 3 a three-level pre-emptive bid to keep of a major. Judge this for yourself: ♣ Q 9 3 2 the opponents out is silly when passing is sure to keep them out. A three-level opening in fourth seat is constructive. Hand 3 In the fourth seat, after three passes you Many who play weak twos in the majors, ♠ K Q 10 4 2 might decide to pass it out because points showing 5-9 points, change what they ♥ J 7 5 plus spades adds up to 14. You may be on do in fourth seat. Perhaps they play ♦ K 9 4 your own if you play at a club at which strong twos or make their weak twos the ♣ 7 6 the common method is to play a weak strength of an opening bid. It is a good no trump and nobody else has read this idea to know what you and your partner article. From time to time, the cards do in this position. You deal and pass and, after two more will fall in such a way that 1NT makes Anyway, let’s get back to the main passes, your right-hand opponent opens and you get a poor score. Rather more issue. What do you open with these 1♦ in fourth seat. You would overcall 1♠ often, you will notice that many of the hands after three passes? wouldn’t you? players sitting in your direction concede 100 or 200 because they go down – or they may concede 110 because their Hand 1 Hand 4 opponents have got together in spades. ♠ K Q 10 6 3 ♠ K 9 4 At least, if you do decide to open 1NT, ♥ 9 4 ♥ J 7 5 you force your opponents to come in ♦ K J 9 2 ♦ K Q 10 4 2 at the two level – but it is still worth ♣ Q 4 ♣ 7 6 giving a thought to whether you should pass. ■

Page 47 BRIDGE PLUS 10 If undelivered or unwanted kindly return to Q Ryden Grange, Knaphill, Surrey, GU21 2TH Really user-friendly bridge-playing software

QPLUS TRADE-IN OFFER Return any QPLUS CD and booklet with a cheque for £43 and receive QPLUS 10 now and QPLUS 11 at the end of October. FEATURES INCLUDE SYSTEM Order with absolute confidence. l QPlus 11 sent when ready l 8mb RAM

l CD-ROM l QPlus can be passed on to a friend l Windows XP, Vista, 7 or 8 l Comprehensive manual l Displays on HD and large screens TUTORIAL TRADE-IN OFFER l Minibridge option l 5,000 preplayed hands for teams Send in any QPLUS software together with l 4,000 preplayed hands for match-point pairs a cheque for £46 and receive the Bernard l Save match function £92 Magee tutorial program of your choice. l Closed room – buttonto view other table including post and packing

Make your cheque payable to Mr Bridge and send to: Ryden Grange, Knaphill, Surrey GU21 2TH This offer must end 30 November 2013.

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