Rob Newby, chairman of the club which meets in the Leyton Road day centre, said: "This was the second time Ron had visited the club, the first time being in October 2004 when his topic was defence.

"Ron is a prolific author, having written over 40 books on bridge, many of which were on sale during the evening.

"He has been a teacher for more than 30 years and has won many national and international titles.

"Because of his reputation and popularity, the Harpenden Day Centre was full to capacity and the evening was sold out within a week of the event being publicised.

"Ron gave an extremely instructive and entertaining seminar and those present will, surely, give more thought in future when making an opening lead."