Demis Hassabis

Chris Ledgard presents a series looking at the lives of people who were labelled child prodigies.

Demis Hassabis was once the highest-ranked 12-year-old chess player in the world.

He wanted a career in chess and hoped one day to become world champion.

Then he gave up playing the game seriously, a decision he doesn't regret.

Why does chess have such a hold on so many bright young people?

International Masters Bill Hartston and Malcolm Pein join the debate.

Producer: Chris Ledgard

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2008.