The chess set was removed from the Square when renovations were undertaken.

The original imported, laminated wooden pieces had badly deteriorated and were unsuitable to be returned.

So the Christchurch City Council investigated a suitable replacement chess set and has obtained one of fibreglass pieces, made in Christchurch.

These will be available for free use by the public seven days a week from 28 February.

The chairman of the City Services Committee, Cr. Denis O’Rourke, will give a short speech at the "welcome-back" ceremony and take part in the first game.

Members of the Canterbury Chess Club and pupils and staff of the Christ’s College Chess Club will also compete at the ceremony.

The pieces will be stored during playing hours in the grandstand, which is also being renovated ready for the reopening.