Author: Alex Baddley

SDE Energy Solutions powers sustainability at Markham Vale

A major solar installation by SDE Energy Solutions, part of Chesterfield Champion SDE Group, has helped bilstein group take a big step in its sustainability journey at Markham Vale.

The renewables specialist installed 1,555 solar panels across 3,036.5 m² of roof space at the bilstein group distribution centre, based at Markham Vale. As a result, the company now generates a large portion of its own clean energy. Early data shows that 77.7 percent of the electricity produced is used directly on site. This powers day-to-day operations and office functions.

“We are delighted to support bilstein group in reaching such an important sustainability milestone,” said Aaron Olver, Technical Director at SDE Energy Solutions. “This project shows how targeted solar solutions can deliver both environmental and economic benefits, helping businesses take control of their energy usage.”

Paul Dodgson, Managing Director for bilstein group UK said “Sustainability is central to every major decision we make. Our new solar installation spans 3,036.5 m² of roof space and now supplies clean, renewable energy to our operations and offices. It cuts our reliance on fossil fuels, supports long-term energy savings, and delivers an annual carbon reduction equal to planting roughly 7,000 trees”

Paul went on to say “We are proud of the collaborative project with SDE Energy Solutions. By working together, we have taken a major step forward towards our sustainability goals. Thank you to everyone involved in the project for their hard work and professionalism, from start to finish.”

This project not only highlights bilstein group’s commitment to sustainable practices but also serves as a strong example for other manufacturers and distributors considering investment at Markham Vale. Businesses looking to grow sustainably in the region can see how renewable energy solutions can be integrated effectively, delivering both environmental and financial benefits.

Posted in Business, Development, Home

Council receives national award for innovative construction skills support

The Construction Skills Hub, operated by Chesterfield Borough Council in partnership with local organisations, has been awarded National Skills Academy for Construction qualifying status by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

This national recognition highlights Chesterfield’s leadership as a centre of excellence for construction training and best practice in local labour processes. It further strengthens collaboration between the council, CITB, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby, and the Devonshire Group to expand opportunities at the Construction Skills Hub.

Achieving the new status provides a formal framework for delivering local labour initiatives. Contractors including, Stepnell, Vistry, and Harron Homes will now collaborate more closely with the hub to boost skills development and employment opportunities for local residents.

The Construction Skills Hub, a sector-specific training facility linked to the Devonshire Group’s emerging development at Mastin Moor, is a flagship project within the Staveley Town Deal. Over the next decade, it is expected to support more than 5,000 learners, from school pupils exploring careers to adults seeking to re-skill, providing careers insights, training and work experience.

The hub has been created to help tackle well-documented skills shortages across the construction industry. CITB’s latest Industry Outlook Report highlights that the East Midlands alone needs over 3,000 new construction workers every year until 2029 to keep pace with demand for housing and infrastructure.

The Construction Skills Hub is a unique collaboration between Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby and the Devonshire Group. The project supports the council’s ambition to make Chesterfield a thriving, modern borough and improve the quality of life for local people.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Skills and Employment Partnership, said:

“I’m delighted Chesterfield Borough Council has received this award. As the first council in our region to enter into this positive partnership with the CITB, we are truly leading the way when it comes to providing support for skills development.

Securing National Skills Academy for Construction qualifying status endorses our approach to creating fantastic opportunities for local people arising from development, not only through training but also by strengthening the local supply chain. The work we do has real impact too—students at our Construction Skills Hub are more than three times more likely to go into construction-related employment, giving them the best chance to build a bright future in our borough.”

Luke Mantle, Director of School (Construction, Plumbing, Electrical and Automotive) at Chesterfield College, said: “Being awarded the status of National Skills Academy for Construction is another huge milestone for our Skills Hub.

The quality of our training begins with its unique setting – a live construction site, where students gain real-world experience from day one. This hands-on approach is strengthened by the expertise of our industry-leading tutors. They equip students with the practical skills and knowledge employers need to tackle the well-documented skills gap in construction.

This initiative continues to go from strength to strength, demonstrating the powerful impact that collaboration between the public sector, private sector, and local community can achieve. Securing NSAfC status will further deepen our partnership with employers, enabling us to support both the recruitment of new talent and the upskilling of existing staff.”

Andrew Byrne, Group Property Development Director at the Devonshire Group, emphasised the long-term value of the project: “The Devonshire Group is delighted to support the Construction Skills Hub, and this latest achievement is a credit to all the teams involved.

Creating great communities is core to our values, and we hope to create a lasting legacy for Chesterfield by supporting construction skills for those who will help build communities in the future.”

Nathan Wilkins, Customer Engagement Manager for the East Midlands and East of England at CITB, added: “We’re excited to be working with Chesterfield Borough Council and local partners to bring the National Skills Academy for Construction to the area.

This collaboration will create new opportunities for local people to gain high-quality training, apprenticeships and careers, ensuring major developments directly benefit the community. CITB is proud to help strengthen the local workforce and support Chesterfield’s growth for years to come.” 

Cllr jean Innes and nathan wilkins skills

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Development, Home, Skills

Chesterfield projects selected as part of East Midlands Investment Fund

Projects for Chesterfield and Steveley have been approved to enter the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s (EMCCA) £25 million Investment Fund pipeline.

Funding will support ten projects that strengthen town centres, boost small businesses, create jobs, and promote greener, more sustainable communities across the East Midlands.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “This funding marks another major step forward in our shared ambition to unlock the potential of the East Midlands.

“Inclusive growth is at the heart of everything we do and we’re ensuring the benefits of investment reach every part of our region, from our cities to our towns and villages.

“These projects will help create new opportunities, drive innovation, and support local jobs, all while strengthening the foundations of our communities.”

The projects in Chesterfield and Staveley are:

Other projects across Nottingham and Derbyshire include: Clay Cross Town Deal, Ashbourne Reborn, Long Eaton Town Deal, Stapleford Pencil Works, Greening Growth in Giltbrook, Yorke Drive Housing, Newark, Sherwood Revival, Ollerton, and Becketwell Enabling.

Mayor Claire said: “We’re working with partners to build a region that celebrates its heritage while looking confidently to the future. I’m committed to making the East Midlands a place where everyone has the chance to thrive, contribute, and feel proud to call home.”

Progress across the region

EMCCA board members approved the projects during their meeting on Monday, 24 November 2025. Each scheme is now moving through final due diligence ahead of funding release.

This funding round builds on previous regional successes, including:

  • The South Derbyshire Growth Zone, backed by Derbyshire County Council in October.

  • The upcoming demolition of Nottingham’s Broadmarsh shopping centre, unlocking regeneration and future homes.

  • The launch of the Infinity Prototyping Centre at Infinity Park East Midlands in Derby, a new innovation and R&D hub.

Cllr Rob Reaney, Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said:

“We’re working in partnership with our district and borough council colleagues on these projects as part of our wider regeneration plans for the whole of the county.

“With the support of funding from EMCCA, they will make a real difference to local residents by boosting businesses, bringing benefits to our local economy and improving spaces within our communities.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Development

Mayor sets out £4.8m boost for East Midlands tourism and investment

East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward has unveiled plans for the new Visit East Midlands and Invest East Midlands programmes to strengthen the region’s profile and drive growth.

The initiatives will spotlight the East Midlands as both a leading UK visitor destination and a prime investment region, and were signed off by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) Board on the 24th November. EMCCA will provide £4.8 million in baseline funding over the next two years to strengthen the visitor economy, support local businesses, and attract new investment into Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

The move supports the newly published East Midlands Growth Plan and is expected to help EMCCA leverage further Government and private sector contributions as it works towards its £13 billion growth ambition.

A unified approach to promotion and growth

A new Visit East Midlands partnership will be formed to promote the region’s attractions, develop new experiences, build a clear identity for the area and deliver coordinated campaigns to encourage more visitors from the UK and internationally.

Running alongside it, Invest East Midlands will work with partners to attract new businesses and investment, creating jobs and supporting economic growth.

Mayor Claire Ward said: “Visit East Midlands was something I promised to deliver when I was elected, because working together as one region is how we put the East Midlands back on the map. We won’t grow if we don’t work together to achieve it – and this moment is a key milestone in defining how that collaborative work will look when it comes to attracting visitors and boosting investment.

“The investment we are making to set this in motion puts in place the building blocks to power our regional economy and will be the foundation for future investment. We will work hard to ensure this investment pays off.”

Strengthening regional identity

The decision follows a review into how economic development functions,including visitor economy, business support and inward investment, are currently organised across the region. With the UK Shared Prosperity Fund due to end in March, the review highlighted the need for improved coordination and a clearer regional identity and brand.

In response, EMCCA will invest in three major programmes:

  • Invest East Midlands – Driving regional effort through working with partners such as Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, Marketing Derby, Destination Chesterfield and Freeport to bring in new investment and support business growth.

  • Visit East Midlands – Promoting the region, working with partners such as Visit Peak District and Derbyshire and Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire to grow the visitor economy and develop new visitor experiences and campaigns.

  • East Midlands Growth Hub – Providing support and advice to help local businesses start and grow, delivered in partnership with universities and the private sector.

Detailed plans for each programme will now be developed with regional investment and visitor economy partners, councils, businesses and national organisations.

Mayor Claire Ward continued: “I will continue fighting for more investment to come into this region so we can deliver real change. This new approach will ensure the East Midlands gets the attention, recognition and money it needs to help me do that.”

Chair of EMCCA’s Business Advisory Board, David Williams, said: “I welcome the Mayor’s decisive action to use EMCCA funds to invest in the future of the East Midlands. In a time where funding is challenging, this commitment will enable us to strengthen our regional economy, enhance our visitor offer and create the conditions for sustainable business growth, driving prosperity for communities and businesses alike, strengthening the positioning of the East Midlands as a leading destination for investment and tourism.”

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Local Champions continue to grow

Local businesses are thriving as several homegrown companies expand their services, launch new offerings, and bring innovative solutions to our region. From workplace wellbeing to technology consulting and iconic property acquisitions, Chesterfield is proving to be a hub for entrepreneurial growth.

Central Technology expands with new North West office in Warrington

Central Technology (CT) has opened a new office in Warrington, marking the company’s fourth location and a key milestone in its growth across the UK. The new office will enable CT to better serve clients in the North West and strengthen its regional presence.

Founded in Chesterfield, Central Technology has built a reputation for delivering innovative IT solutions and technology services to businesses across a range of sectors. Since its launch, they have focused on helping organisations modernise infrastructure, streamline operations, and adopt cutting-edge technology to drive growth.

The company has steadily expanded, establishing offices in key locations to stay close to clients and regional markets.

The Warrington office represents the next step in this expansion, providing a local hub for businesses seeking expert technology support. The team looks forward to building relationships with clients in the area and exploring new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

Two female employees collaborate in office while looking at computer

On-Site workplace pain and injury relief to Chesterfield businesses

Chesterfield businesses now have access to professional pain and injury relief delivered directly on-site, thanks to a new workplace programme from The Body Health Centre. The service helps teams stay healthy, mobile, and pain-free throughout the working day.

The Body Health Centre’s experienced therapists specialise in targeted treatments for workplace-related aches and injuries. From desk-based tension and repetitive strain to physically demanding roles, they help teams:

  • Reduce aches, stiffness, and fatigue
  • Prevent work-related injuries
  •  Improve posture and mobility
  • Boost staff morale and productivity

Businesses can book flexible options, including one-off wellbeing days or regular workplace visits.

Services include on-site sports massage and soft tissue therapy, postural and movement assessments, injury prevention support, and workplace ergonomics advice. Each session is tailored to the business and its team, combining clinical expertise with practical results.

The team delivers evidence-based care and rehabilitation, offering the same professional standard as clinic treatments. Workplaces benefit from fewer sick days, improved energy and focus, and a healthier, happier workforce.

Businesses in Chesterfield and surrounding areas can book a workplace visit or find out more by calling 01246 860317 or emailing tbhc7@outlook.com.

BHP launches expert technology consulting service for Chesterfield SMEs

Chesterfield small and medium-sized businesses can now access specialist technology leadership through a new consultancy from leading accountancy firm BHP.

The Information and Technology Consulting service gives SMEs access to experienced technology leaders without having to hire a full-time IT director. It helps businesses define and deliver tailored technology strategies, either as part of a wider business plan or as a standalone project.

The initiative is led by technology experts Carolyn Pearson and Jim Stott. Carolyn has international experience with the BBC, ITV, easyJet, and KLM, specialising in technical development, programme delivery, and large-scale transformation. Jim brings board-level experience, aligning technology strategy with business outcomes across software development, infrastructure, and service delivery.

Melanie Foster, BHP’s chief information officer, said:
“Technology drives business growth, but SMEs often struggle to know when and how to invest. Our service provides expert guidance to help businesses build value, accelerate growth, improve efficiency, and use data to make informed decisions.”

Mark Roberts, head of consulting at BHP, added:
“Carolyn and Jim bring real-world experience in growth strategy and transformation. Our flexible model delivers expert technology leadership without the cost of a full-time director, letting SMEs focus on their core strengths while maximising business value.”

SMEs start the process with BHP’s TechOrtunity workshops, which provide a deep dive into aligning technology with business goals.

For more information, visit BHP Information and Technology Consulting.

BHP Carolyn Pearson and Jim Stott

Dawson Radford advises on acquisition of Iconic ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ property

Dawson Radford Solicitors and Sheffield-based Mason Thomas Law have advised on the purchase of Skeldale House in Askrigg, North Yorkshire, the iconic setting for the BBC series All Creatures Great and Small.

The firms worked with entrepreneur Greg Parkin, with Dawson Radford handling the acquisition of the established luxury holiday business and Mason Thomas Law advising on the property itself. The teams completed a complex, time-sensitive transaction smoothly.

Skeldale House, a Grade II listed Wensleydale property, featured in 90 episodes of the BBC series between 1978 and 1990. Built in the early-to-mid 19th century, it has served as a family home, care facility, and B&B before becoming luxury serviced holiday apartments in 2021.

Greg, who previously built and sold several successful construction businesses, said the opportunity to acquire Skeldale House was “too good to miss.” He added: “It’s a very special place. I grew up watching All Creatures Great and Small and have always loved the Dales. Skeldale House captures authenticity, beauty, and a sense of welcome. I want guests to feel the same when they visit.”

The property now offers six luxury serviced suites, a self-contained holiday apartment, and an event space called ‘The Surgery’, featuring original veterinary paraphernalia, James Herriot memorabilia, and photos from filming. Plans include bespoke rural retreat packages to let visitors explore the landscape that inspired James Herriot’s stories.

Cathy Mason, solicitor and director at Mason Thomas Law, said: “Skeldale House is part of Yorkshire’s cultural heritage. Completing the purchase within a tight timeframe was a real team effort. It’s exciting to see the property continue its legacy as a Dales destination.”

For more information, visit www.skeldalehouse.co.uk.

Skeldale house

For more information on Chesterfield Champions please click here: Chesterfield Champions 

Posted in Business, Home

Chesterfield rewilding project shortlisted for two prestigious awards

Based in Cutthorpe, Wild & Other, a 20-acre rewilding project and three sustainable holiday cottages, has been shortlisted in both the Regenerative Tourism Award and New Tourism Business of the Year in the 2026 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards.

Wild and Other is celebrating a strong year of awards that highlight its care for nature people and place. Based at Cow Close Farm in Cutthorpe the project continues to gain praise for its gentle approach to sustainable tourism.

The aim is simple. Create spaces where nature flourishes and where people can rest. The team has brought new life to the twenty acre site on the edge of the Peak District. Its three cottages offer calm comfort and space to switch off. As a result guests often slow down and enjoy the land at their own pace.

This approach continues to impress award judges. They praise Wild and Other for its eco conscious design its support for local suppliers and its active work to restore rare habitats. They also highlight the warm visitor experience that defines every stay.

Founders Steve and Emily Coles lead the project with a clear shared vision. Steve works closely with local ecologist Julie Riley to restore meadows hedgerows and woodland. Already barn owls and sparrowhawks have returned and fresh signs of plant and insect life are appearing across the site.

Meanwhile Emily brings the same care to the interiors. She uses natural materials and soft modern comforts to create simple peaceful spaces. As well as her attention to detail also stands out in recent tourism awards.

The team makes clear ethical choices across every part of the site. They use renewable energy and choose sustainable supplies for each cottage. In addition, local and B Corp partners help keep standards high.

The awards push the team to go even further. They plan new ponds to support the great crested newt and new bee banks to give solitary bees a safe home. At the same time they are exploring a second site to expand their impact.

“We’re thrilled to have been shortlisted, especially as we’ve heard that there were a record number of entries this year. Being a finalist for the Regenerative Tourism Award feels particularly special because supporting nature and increasing biodiversity is at the very heart of everything we do.” explains Steve Coles – Co-Founder and Managing Director of Wild & Other. 

Overall, Wild and Other continues to grow its reputation as one of the areas most thoughtful eco tourism destinations. Its award success shows the strong impact a small focused team can achieve with a clear purpose.

Wild and other

Posted in Home, Visiting

Exciting new food vendor coming to The Batch House

Local food lovers have something new to enjoy: Butcher & Catch, the acclaimed Yorkshire-based Meat House and Seafood Bar, is opening at The Batch House.

Since opening in 2021, The Batch House based on Whittington Moor has quickly become a hub for food and social gatherings in Chesterfield. It is part of The Glass Yard, the wider redevelopment of the historic Chesterfield Glass Works, a landmark of the town’s industrial heritage. The Glass Yard now combines artisan food vendors, bars, and creative spaces, with The Batch House serving as a key part of this lively scene.

Butcher & Catch already delights customers in Sheffield, where its stall at the award-winning Cutlery Works Food Hall in Kelham Island serves an innovative and hearty menu. Now, the team is bringing their signature dishes to Chesterfield, promising a dining experience that is both unique and perfectly suited to the Batch House family of vendors.

Highlights of the menu include the Soft-Shell Crab Roll, celebrated for its playful and fresh flavors. Meat lovers can enjoy the Signature Meat Tray, which features local produce such as Pipers Artisan Sausage and Moss Valley baby back ribs. Traditionalists will appreciate proper Fish & Chips with mushy peas—a perfect choice on home match days.

Moreover, Butcher & Catch will keep things exciting with regular specials and a loyalty rewards scheme, ensuring that customers always have something new to try.

“Our feast-like food has already caught the eye of many Chesterfield customers, and we think that our menu offers something different but fits well within the Batch House family of food vendors.”

The Chesterfield stall is expected to open within the next few weeks, and the team encourages locals to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

With its mix of fresh seafood, hearty meats, and inventive dishes, Butcher & Catch looks set to become a must-visit spot for anyone exploring The Batch House.

Butcher and Catch

Posted in Business, Home, Leisure

Olympia House Emporium reopens following flood recovery

Olympia House Emporium officially reopened its doors on Monday, 10th November, following several months of recovery and restoration work after severe flooding temporarily forced the popular destination to close.

The unexpected flood caused significant damage to the building, affecting trading areas, flooring, electrical systems, and multiple trader units. The impact was felt not only by Olympia House itself but also by the community of independent traders who rely on the venue to showcase antiques, vintage furniture, art, home décor, collectibles, and handcrafted items.

Despite these challenges, the team at Olympia House has worked tirelessly to restore the space. Repairs and improvements included:

  • Restoration of all flood-damaged areas
  • Complete cleaning and safety checks
  • Updates to layout and customer access
  • Fresh decoration throughout the building
  • New windows, flat roofs, and flood barriers

The reopening marks a significant milestone, celebrating the resilience of the Olympia House team and the wider trader community.

“We were devastated when the flood hit,” said Sofia Brown, owner of Olympia House Emporium. “But the support we received and our determination to bring Olympia House back stronger than ever have been overwhelming. We can’t wait to welcome everyone through our doors again.”

From reopening day onwards, customers have enjoyed the same welcoming atmosphere, along with refreshed spaces, new traders, and carefully curated stalls.

However, on the evening of Friday, 14th November 2025, the area experienced further flooding. While fortunately the water did not enter the building, it left a mess in the car park, highlighting the ongoing challenges of extreme weather for local businesses.

Olympia House Emporium thanked its customers, traders, and the Chesterfield community for their patience and continued support during the recovery process, underscoring the strength and resilience of local independent businesses.

Olympia House Emporium

Posted in Development, Home, Visiting

New homes for local residents

Work has officially started on a development that will bring 18 brand-new, energy-efficient homes to Mastin Moor in Chesterfield – a major step forward in Chesterfield Borough Council’s commitment to providing more affordable housing for local families.

The scheme is among the first in the region to tap into the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s (EMCCA) Brownfield Housing Fund. This fund unlocks stalled developments and turns under-used land into vibrant communities. Backed by the UK Government and delivered with Homes England, it’s driving regeneration across the East Midlands.

Where are the homes being built?

  • 13 council homes on Miller Avenue
  • 5 homes on Edale Road
In total, the development brings seven four-bedroom homes and eleven two-bedroom homes, all allocated to families on the council’s housing register. Henry Boot Construction is leading the build, ensuring every home meets the highest energy-efficiency standards.

Each property will feature:

  • Solar panels and air source heat pumps to cut energy bills and reduce carbon emissions
  • Private gardens and off-road parking for residents
  • Electric vehicle charging points
  • Bat and bird boxes to support local wildlife

The homes are also located on bus routes, making it easy for families to access local amenities.

Mastin Moor

Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “As a council, we remain committed to increasing the supply of affordable housing for local people and this latest project is helping us to achieve this.

“We are really pleased that EMCCA has allocated part of its Brownfield Housing Fund to help deliver this project that will provide much needed homes for local families. We look forward to working with EMCCA and Henry Boot Construction and watching the project progress.

“With the cost of living continuing to rise, we know how important it is to our tenants to keep homes warm but energy costs down, so we’re really pleased to be delivering new properties with the top energy efficiency rating.”

To mark the start of the project, Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, joined the Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, Councillor Tricia Gilby, and the council’s cabinet member for housing, Councillor Jean Innes for a site visit hosted by Henry Boot Construction.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “This project is a powerful example of how we’re turning our vision for inclusive growth into reality. Through the Brownfield Housing Fund, we’re creating high-quality, affordable homes that meet the needs of local families while supporting greener, more sustainable communities. By investing in places like Mastin Moor, we’re making the East Midlands a region that everyone is proud to call home.”

EMCCA has secured a devolved allocation of Brownfield Housing Fund investment from the UK Government to support the delivery of housing on brownfield sites in the East Midlands. The funding commitment will deliver more than 2,000 high-quality homes, supporting Mayor Claire Ward’s ambition to build 100,000 new homes in the region by 2035.

Mat Clarke, Head of Construction at Henry Boot Construction, said: “We’re proud to be supporting Chesterfield Borough Council in its mission to deliver affordable, energy-efficient homes for families across the borough.

“It’s great for us to be back in Chesterfield after recently working with the council on its largest housing development in decades at Badger Croft, and we’re delighted to continue playing our part in increasing the local housing supply.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

Savings on bus travel now open to all Derbyshire residents

More people in Derbyshire can now save money on bus travel, thanks to an expanded discount scheme from Derbyshire County Council.

Previously available to companies to support employees, the scheme now includes anyone who joins Derbyshire Community Bank – a local credit union open to people who live, work, or study in Derbyshire and are aged 18 or over.

By becoming a member (which is free and easy to do), residents can access up to 20% off bus season tickets with Arriva and trentbarton, and spread the cost through monthly direct debit payments.

Derbyshire Community Bank is a not-for-profit financial cooperative that offers fair and affordable financial services, including savings accounts and loans. It’s designed to support local people, especially those who may not have access to mainstream banking.

Councillor Charlotte Hill, Cabinet Member for Potholes, Highways and Transport, said:

“I’m pleased that we are able to extend this discount scheme to members of Derbyshire Community Bank.

“Providing cheaper fares for people to get to work or college by using this discount scheme is important in these challenging financial times, and we will do all we can to help people save money.”

Phil Cole from Derbyshire Community Bank added:

“For many of our members, buses are a vital lifeline – helping them stay connected to work, education and family.

“Being able to spread the cost of a season ticket will make a real difference, helping households manage their budgets and ease financial pressure.

“At Derbyshire Community Bank, we’re rooted in the local community and committed to improving people’s lives. This partnership with Travel Derbyshire, Arriva, and trentbarton shows what’s possible when we work together – delivering practical support that truly benefits those who need it most.”

The scheme is part of Derbyshire’s Bus Service Improvement Plan, funded by the UK government, which aims to make public transport more accessible and affordable.

To find out more, join the bank, or apply for discounted travel, visit the Employee Discount Travel Scheme page.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

Local businesses lighting up the community

Local Chesterfield businesses are making a real difference, bringing joy, creativity, and support to the community. From festive Christmas tree campaigns to charity balls celebrating women, these businesses are not just thriving, they’re giving back in big ways.

RSPCA Chesterfield’s Pawfect Pines Christmas tree campaign

RSPCA Chesterfield is spreading festive cheer with its ‘Pawfect Pines’ campaign, offering real Christmas trees in a range of sizes, including some up to 10 feet tall.

Collection starts at the charity’s Christmas Fayre on Sunday, 30 November. Visitors can browse and choose their ideal tree, enjoy some fun and games, have a mulled wine, and take a tour of the animal centre. All proceeds from the sale go directly to RSPCA Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, helping local animals in need.

Lyndsey Dudley, supporter engagement manager, said:

“Our ‘Pawfect Pines’ campaign is a wonderful way for people to celebrate the festive season while making a real difference for local animals. Every tree purchased helps us provide care and support for vulnerable pets. We’re inviting the community to get involved and make this Christmas extra special.”

To secure your tree, order online by Monday, 24 November at the RSPCA Chesterfield website, or come along and pick one out in person from Sunday 30 November at the centre in Spital.

RSPCA team photo

Chesterfield business owner hosts Charity Ball for Nottingham Women’s Centre

Chesterfield entrepreneur Gemma Feek is bringing a sparkle to Nottingham next March with the Celebrating Her Charity Ball. The event takes place at Colwick Hall on Friday, 6 March 2026 and will support the Nottingham Women’s Centre.

Gemma, Director of Terrena Ltd and Chesterfield Champion Inspire Design and Development Ltd (IPD Ltd), is celebrating five years of Terrena Ltd alongside the rebrand of IPD Ltd.

Scheduled over International Women’s Day weekend, the ball will bring together professionals and community members from across the East Midlands to honour women and their allies creating positive change.

“I have ambitious goals for this event—it’s going to be a huge celebration!” said Gemma. “We’ve lined up a sax player, aerial acrobat, dancers, a DJ, live band and more. Most importantly, it’s about raising awareness and funds for Nottingham Women’s Centre and the incredible work they do.”

Gemma’s dedication to empowering women stems from her own journey. As a mum who returned to education later in life, she’s passionate about helping others pursue their goals. She’s also training for the London Marathon 2026 to raise additional funds for the Centre.

For more information and tickets, visit: https://lnkd.in/ehAah2t3

Gemma Feek

Snowflakes at Vicar Lane bring festive cheer for Sheffield Children’s Hospital

Chesterfield shoppers will once again have the chance to add a sparkle to the festive season with snowflakes 2025 at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre. The campaign raises money for Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, helping fund vital care for children and families across the region.

For £200, supporters can gift a personalised Snowflake tag to sit proudly on the front of the Chesterfield Vicar Lane display. Each tag carries your name and brings a little festive magic to shoppers, staff and visitors throughout December.

The Vicar Lane location is one of 13 sites across South Yorkshire and Derbyshire taking part this year, including:
  • Sheffield Children’s Hospital
  • Becton Centre
  • Ryegate Children’s Centre
  • Sheffield City Hall
  • Crystal Peaks

Snowflakes at Vicar Lane directly support Sheffield Children’s Hospital, making a real difference for the children and families they care for.

For more information, visit the Sheffield Children’s Hospital snowflakes website.

Sheffield children's hospital

Record number of early-bird entrants to the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K

Chesterfield’s popular annual running event, the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K, is off to a flying start for 2026. With a record number of runners signing up during the early-bird period.

Next year’s race, taking place on Sunday 17 May, will mark the fifth edition of the event. It has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated sporting occasions, attracting hundreds of runners each year. From seasoned athletes to first-time participants.

This year, 714 people registered during the early-bird period, a more than 25 per cent increase on last year. In 2025, 1,515 runners took part on the day.

The Chesterfield 10K isn’t just about running. The event also raises thousands of pounds for local charities, including Redbrik Foundation, Ashgate Hospice, and Bluebell Wood. Supporting people across Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, and South Yorkshire.

John Timms, lead organiser and director at MLS Contracts Ltd, said: “It’s fantastic to see early-bird sign-ups grow by a quarter from last year. It shows how much this event means to the local community and the difference it makes for our charity partners.

“General entries are now open, and there’s still plenty of time for anyone wanting to take on the challenge to sign up and start training for the big day. See you in May!”

Redbrik 10k

 

Posted in Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home