Gifted and talented pupils at Bungay Middle School attended an intriguing workshop run by The Zen Machine in Gisleham this week. Pupils were introduced to the ancient Japanese game of GO by two of Britain's leading experts in the game.

Gifted and talented pupils at Bungay Middle School attended an intriguing workshop run by The Zen Machine in Gisleham this week.

Pupils were introduced to the ancient Japanese game of GO by two of Britain's leading experts in the game. GO, which pre-dates chess, requires an extraordinary blend of strategic, intellectual and creative thinking.

It is the second most played game on Earth, and yet little is known about it in the UK - although that is set to change. After an accelerated learning session in the morning with Peter and Sheila Wendes students launched into a series of tournaments against

pupils from Gisleham Middle School.

This addictive game looks a little like drafts, but uses strategy akin to Ma Jong and chess. Pupils found the basic rules can be learnt in a few minutes, but its complexity can take years to master.

Pupils at Bungay have decided to set up a lunchtime club at school and play against fellow pupils. Gisleham, who hosted the event, are keen to set up inter-school competitions - and both schools are considering taking part in the national GO tournaments.