THE achievements of a former Kelty miner who became world draughts champion 100 years ago are to be celebrated with a new event in the village.

Robert Stewart reportedly lost only two out of 8,000 games, he was unbeaten for 21 years and held onto his title from 1922 to 1933.

A century on from his first win, his exceptional feats of skill and strategy are being recognised by bringing the Scottish Draughts Championship to Kelty this summer.

The annual tournament will become part of the Scottish Coal Carrying Championship weekend, with the two events celebrating the history of the village.

The Robert Stewart Tournament will be for adult elite players and will start on Thursday, August 25, with the final being played on the day of the coal race, Saturday, August 27.

There will also be an ‘all-comers' open competition which will consist of both junior and senior competitions.

Donald Oliphant, of the Scottish Draughts Association, said: “A century on from Robert Stewart claiming the world draughts title in 1922, the Scottish Draughts Association is delighted to partner with the Coal Carrying Championship organisers to increase the profile of the game in 2022.

“This will allow the community and the rest of Scotland to see for themselves the high level of skill required to play the game at its highest level.

"Nearly everyone has played draughts but very few move to the next level and begin to realise the vast depth of skill and knowledge required to become a master player.

"This competition gives an opportunity to the people of Fife to see world-class draughts on their doorstep.”

The events will be sponsored and supported by the Scottish Coal Carrying Championships, the Scottish Draughts Association and head sponsor National Pride UK.

Founded in 1995, the annual coal race was created by Michael Boyle whose aim was to create a link between the modern-day village and its rich coal-mining heritage.

The 1km race through the streets of Kelty sees the men carrying a 50kg bag of coal while the ladies have a 25kg bag.

There are races for children too, shouldering 15kg of coal.

National Pride UK was principal sponsor last year and will continue in 2022.

As the new owners of the neighbouring St Ninians former opencast mine, as well as Loch Fitty, they aim to create a health, wellness and leisure destination at the 976-acre site.

It will also deliver a leisure, entertainment and tourism offering with significant employment opportunities and support for local businesses.

Irene Bissett, from National Pride UK, said: “We are delighted to be again sponsoring the Scottish Coal Carrying Championship in Kelty, which is such a fantastic community event.

“The Robert Stewart Tournament not only celebrates his incredible achievement, but we are sure it will inspire all generations to participate in a new annual community event and have fun.”