I hadn’t realised quite what a thriving bridge scene Manchester has until spending a weekend there recently. I went with Sally Brock and Barry Myers for the annual mixed pivot teams held in memory of Michelle Brunner. It’s a wonderful event: Michelle, who died of cancer four years ago, was one of England’s top players and a much-loved teacher at Manchester Bridge Club. The room was packed with her friends and former pupils, as well as many of Manchester’s bridge stars, like Alan Mould and, of course, Michelle’s husband John Holland. John Holland is not just a world class player — he’s also one of the speediest analysts I’ve ever come across:
Sally Brock and I bid easily to slam (my 2NT rebid showed 25-27 points, 3♦ was a transfer to hearts and my jump to 4 ♥ showed super-acceptance).
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