Celebrating community, nature and giving back
From supporting local charities to protecting green spaces, people across Chesterfield are working together to make a positive impact. This month’s round-up highlights a few of the Chesterfield Champions’ inspiring efforts to support our communities.
A Sea of Remembrance at Chatsworth
This spring, Ashgate Hospice’s Dragonfly Appeal brought a moving tribute to the grounds of Chatsworth House. Over 2,500 handcrafted steel dragonflies, created by local sculptor James Sutton, were dedicated in memory of loved ones. The installation, which ran until 22 May, offered families a chance to reflect, remember, and support the hospice’s vital work.
Among those taking part was Barry Hancock, 81, from Brimington, who dedicated a dragonfly in memory of his wife Sue. “Being at the hospice felt like home,” Barry shared. “One of Sue’s favourite moments was being wheeled out to the garden — her face lit up.”
The appeal, supported by Graysons Solicitors, helps Ashgate raise essential funds, with only 31% of its income coming from the NHS.
Supporting Charity Trustees Nationwide
BHP Chartered Accountants is marking a major milestone, supporting over 1,500 charity trustees through its free training programme. Launched in 2015, the initiative was created to fill a gap in support for those giving their time and expertise to the third sector.
This year’s programme was the most successful yet, with over 200 attendees joining practical webinars from across the UK. Laura Masheder, Partner at BHP, said: “Trustees are vital to the success of charities, and we’re proud to help them thrive.”
Planning for Nature’s Future
Chesterfield is also taking bold steps in nature recovery, thanks to a growing partnership between Derbyshire Wildlife Trust (DWT) and Chesterfield Borough Council. At the recent Climate Change Forum, DWT shared insights from the new Plan for Nature — a roadmap for rewilding and sustainable development in the borough.
Councillor Martin Stone, cabinet member for climate change, planning and the environment, said:
“The council already considers protecting wildlife to be a priority in our planning process and general development. We have well-considered systems in place for the management of our wide variety of open spaces, which ensure we don’t disturb habitats unnecessarily. In the last three years, we have planted 14,000 trees, with 6,000 of those being in the last year. Everything that grows has a role to play in our fight against climate change.”
The forum, which includes 38 community representatives, continues to grow as a space for sharing ideas and shaping local action. With strong collaboration between residents, local groups, and the council, Chesterfield is showing how people, places, and the planet can thrive together.
