Social gaming event returns for two-day convention

The event sold out at Kettering Arts Centre last summer

A social gaming event offering hours of board games is being extended after the "huge success" of its inaugural gathering.

The Northants Board Game Convention aims to bring together anyone who loves a board game for fun, games and community.

It is returning to Kettering Arts Centre on Friday and Saturday, after the one-day event last summer attracted hundreds of people, with many having to be turned away at the door.

"It was so great to see so many families attend last year; there was such a relaxed vibe in the room, and I loved seeing everyone get involved in the tournaments, especially Connect 4," said Polly Shackleton, one of its organisers.

The event is run by Ms Shackleton, Gavin Price and Dez Dell, who formed Boards of Kettering, a Community Interest Company (CIC), to promote skills and wellbeing through play.

Dez Dell, Polly Shackleton and Gavin Price also run board game cafe nights

A "vast library" of more than 500 games will be available, with experienced players on hand to demonstrate, plus role-playing game sessions and a murder mystery to solve.

Tournaments and competitions will return, including Connect 4, Dro Polter and Crokinole, and the venue's quiet rooms are set aside for those who prefer a peaceful place to play.

"After the huge success of last year's convention, we wanted to grow on that, so this year we decided to hold it over two days, said Mr Price.

"We are also bringing even more entertainment this year - I'm especially excited about the introduction to roleplay and miniature tabletop games being run by local volunteers."