This BBC interactive chess programme from 28 years ago is just an amazing watch
Viewers of a certain age might remember the time the BBC invited viewers to take part in an interactive chess match against grandmaster, Jonathan Speelman.
It was shared online by the fabulous BBC Archive Twitter feed and it really is an extraordinary watch.
#OnThisDay 1990: Interactive chess came to your telly! Your Move aired for the first (and last) time.
Don't bother phoning in – the lines have been closed for 28 years. pic.twitter.com/7pKUBqrqVG
— BBC Archive (@BBCArchive) December 7, 2018
That’s entertainment. And yes, that is William Hartston, more familiar nowadays (probably) from Channel 4’s Gogglebox.
‘A highly experimental programme, the first of its kind anywhere in the world. We’re attempting to link computers and telephone lines all over the country so you can join us here at television centre for live chess match.’
‘In case you are wondering why there seem to be 9s on this board where it would seem to be logical to have 1s in the notation – I was wondering that too – we asked British Telecom and they said they are unable to let us use the number 1 for technical reasons.’
My goodness, everything about this is incredible. https://t.co/PAm5NG88yz
— Richard Osman (@richardosman) December 7, 2018
Can't believe that's 1990. Looks like 1981!
— Kevberto (@kevberto78) December 7, 2018
We went from this to Babestation in the blink of an eye.
— Stephen Kerr (@kidcobbler) December 7, 2018
How did it end??
— KDP (@kerrydupont) December 7, 2018
Slowly.
— Mike F (@turbogeek421) December 7, 2018
This would probably work quite well with modern day TV and technology such as an app.
— Mark F (@Mk_FRugby) December 7, 2018
They should bring back First Class, with the kids playing Hypersports, 720° and other arcade games…
— Warren Pilkington (@zawtowers) December 7, 2018
And in case you were wondering…
I remember watching this, pretty sure Speelman won.
— Ceefax the Cat (@Tiresias_) December 7, 2018
