SOME of the best backgammon players in the UK will return to the Lake District later this year for an annual championship.

Staged in April at Windermere's Cedar Manor Hotel, the contest will return for its fifth outing in the county.

Organised by hotel owner Jonathan Kaye, the winner gets a cash prize and voucher for a hotel stay.

Mr Kaye said: "We are now recognised as one of the major tournaments on the UK calendar, but while we attract the top players, we also welcome people of all abilities.

"We’ve had some great surprise results in the past, and we will be very pleased to hear from any local players who want to take part."

Anyone interested in taking part should ring 015394 43192.

The Championship will be held on Sunday April 8.

Backed by the UK Backgammon Federation and the British Isles Backgammon Association, the board game combines skill and chance and is played in cafes across the Mediterranean.

Last year's contest attracted 16 top players from around Britain, with Bradford's Steve Lee claiming a 7-3 victory in the final against Pol Lapidakis from Newcastle.