Congratulations to this month's winner's Michael Kaye and Ivor McLoughlin. A worthy win for the pair, and noticeably the only ones to defeat 3NT on Board 8. Well done Ivor for your smart unlocking play!

We have a new feature. Each month the Director will select four hands based on a contemporary theme. This month we are improving our Defense. Hands 3,8,10 and 17 had a lesson for our defensive game. The STAR Defender Hand Commentary is available to print, or click on your scorecard for Boards 3,8, 10 and 17 for a tip to defend simply and cleanly to win matchpoints.

WHere are some links to some of the methods and terms mentioned for you to explore at your leisure.