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EBU members can now play bridge at home - all night if they want to - with a real partner, courtesy of the new EBU Online Bridge Club.

To bring this exciting new service to members, a deal was finalised last week between the English Bridge Union, Gameplay.com and International Online Bridge Club. Gameplay.com, the country's largest internet-based games company, has long wanted to add bridge to its portfolio. It is providing the backing and investment for the venture.

One of the great advantages of the EBU Online BC for British players is that Acol is the primary bidding system (other on-line systems use Standard American). As at any bridge club, there is, in fact, no restriction on the systems that may be played. Benji Acol and the Multi are very popular, but all players are happy to play basic Acol with a new partner.

Playing at the new club couldn't be easier. Members just log on to www.ebuonline.co.uk, and follow directions. They can play with a regular partner, start a new table for a game with friends or go in alone and wait for a partner to be found - a host will be in attendance. Play starts at 8pm and players can join in at any time after that. At the moment, play is either Duplicate with Butler scoring or Rubber. Match Pointed Pairs and Teams of Four will soon be added.

A scheme awarding net points is being planned and these points will be credited directly to members' Master Point ranking lists.

EBU members can play for a month at no cost, after which an annual subscription of £40.00 will be charged.

The EBU has appointed Barry Partridge as Online Bridge Manager. Barry, who lives in Sheffield, is an EBU-qualified Club level Tournament Director. He will answer any queries about the EBU Online Bridge Club. Contact him at Barrie@ebuonline.co.uk, or telephone 01629 584567, fax 01629 580 474.