Chesterfield Champions: driving our economy, community, and innovation
Our Chesterfield Champions are continuing to make a difference locally. Peak Edge Hotel launched inclusive golf breaks in the Peak District. Derbyshire Addictions Advice Service received funding for the Veteran Community Hub. Alicia Williams has become a Partner at Shorts Chartered Accountants, and BSP Consulting has strengthened its senior team with three new Directors.
Peak District ‘Stay & Play’ golf breaks launch for 2026
A new Peak District ‘Stay & Play’ golf break has launched for the 2026 season, pairing an overnight stay at Peak Edge Hotel with a round at Stanedge Golf Club, alongside dining prizes to extend the experience beyond the fairway.
Launched in March 2026, the £240 package includes overnight accommodation for two, breakfast, 10% off à la carte dining at the Red Lion Restaurant, and a pre-booked round at Stanedge Golf Club, with sweeping Derbyshire views.
Mark Thurman, Managing Director at Peak Edge Hotel, says:
“Golf today is about enjoying time outdoors and spending time together.”
Fame Tate, PGA Advanced Fellow Professional at Stanedge Golf Club, adds:
“Golf can sometimes feel intimidating to newcomers… We’ve created a place where people can come with friends, enjoy the scenery and simply have fun with the game.”
The partnership also offers dining vouchers as prizes, encouraging guests to enjoy the wider Peak Edge experience.
Together, the partnership offers a golf break that combines fresh air, scenic play and award-winning food, all set against the backdrop of the Peak District countryside.
For more information and bookings, visit: peakedgehotel.co.uk/sleep/hotel-packages
Local charity secures government backing for veteran support centre
Derbyshire Addictions Advice Service (DAAS) has secured funding to become one of the UK’s first government-backed veteran support centres.
The STAND TO Armed Forces Support project is one of 14 centres chosen through the VALOUR programme, which is investing over £50 million to improve access to services for veterans and their families.
Based in our town centre, the Veteran Community Hub provides a central access point alongside outreach across Derbyshire, supporting health, housing, employment, finance and wellbeing.
John Ydlibi, Chair of Derbyshire Addictions Advice Service, said:
“We are absolutely delighted that our Veteran Community Hub in Chesterfield (Derbyshire) has been selected in the first round of funding for the VALOUR programme supporting our veterans.
Derbyshire Addictions Advice Service has been working with charities, such as the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, for several years through our STAND TO services, addressing the needs of our veteran community across subjects such as addiction, loneliness, homelessness, mental and physical health and wellbeing. Employing ex-service personnel and volunteers within our projects reduces barriers and fosters a sense of camaraderie.
It’s great to see increased support for UK veterans and a strengthened commitment to our veteran community.”
Minister for Veterans and People Louise Sandher-Jones MP said:
“This government is stepping up the nation’s commitment to its veterans. We are building the first ever system that brings together a headquarters in the heart of government, coheres charities and support services, and connects a network of veteran support centres.
For more information on the Veteran Community Hub, visit: www.standto.co.uk/veteran-community-hub
Alicia Williams promoted to Partner at Shorts Chartered Accountants
Derbyshire and South Yorkshire-based Shorts Chartered Accountants has promoted Alicia Williams to Partner, recognising her leadership across the firm, her role in developing Shorts’ Genus management information offering, and her support in helping clients use data and technology to drive better business outcomes.
Alicia joined Shorts in 2016, became Director in 2024, and has over 17 years of accountancy experience, including expertise in cloud accounting and Xero. She has led the Genus team independently, contributed to AI and data analytics initiatives, and represented the firm at industry events.
Alicia Williams said:
“When I joined Shorts, I quickly discovered a supportive and inclusive culture… Becoming a Partner is something I am incredibly proud of, and I am excited to continue and play a part in the ongoing development and growth of the firm.”
Malcolm Pope, Partner, added:
“Alicia’s promotion to Partner is thoroughly well‑deserved… We are delighted to welcome her into the partnership and look forward to collaborating with her as Shorts continues to grow.”
Andy Irvine, Managing Partner, added:
“Alicia’s journey at Shorts reflects the way the firm itself has evolved over recent years… Her promotion to Partner is not only a recognition of her individual contribution, but also a clear statement of our commitment to developing talent and building sustainable leadership from within.”
For more information, visit: shorts.uk.com
Trio of Director appointments at BSP Consulting
East Midlands-based civil and structural engineering specialist BSP Consulting has appointed three new Directors to support its continued growth.
Carol Ell (Leicester) becomes Director of Civils, specialising in flood risk and drainage, having joined in 2004. Monika Anszperger, with the company since 2014, becomes Director, leading the Derby office. James Payne, who joined as an apprentice in 2001, is now Director with responsibility for IT infrastructure and administration.
Carl Hilton, Managing Director at BSP Consulting, commented:
“Carol, Monika and James have each been with BSP for a number of years and are already well-respected senior leaders within the business. They have made significant contributions to the company’s management and effectiveness and have consistently demonstrated strong leadership, professionalism and commitment to our core values and long-term success.
Clive Roddick will remain as a consultant, while Tony Goddard retires after more than 20 years. The appointments took effect from 1 April 2026.
For more information on BSP Consulting’s expertise, visit: bsp-consulting.co.uk
Peak Edge Hotel, DAAS, Shorts Chartered Accountants and BSP Consulting, are a handful of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.
Find out more about our Champions network here: www.chesterfield.co.uk/destination-chesterfield/champions
