Author: Mollie Brown

Housing association CEO Lindsey Williams inducted as new East Midlands Chamber president

Lindsey Williams, who has headed up one of the region’s largest housing associations for almost two decades, is the new president of East Midlands Chamber.

The chief executive of Futures Housing Group, which manages more than 10,000 homes across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Northamptonshire, was inducted into the role at the Chamber’s annual general meeting.

In her first speech as president, she spoke about her two priorities – to support the Chamber’s objective of strengthening links between businesses and communities to create a “Sustainable East Midlands”, and to support the wider region in attracting, developing and retaining great talent via the young professionals’ network Generation Next.

She said: “I’m extremely proud to become president of East Midlands Chamber after observing much of its great work across the region as a board member, and I’m excited about what we can achieve in the year ahead.

“I’m passionate about people having choice – something that is limited by poverty and a lack of opportunity – so I want to ensure our region has equity of investment compared to the rest of the country and, specifically, to promote how any company can have an impact on the local community.

“As a housing provider with an important role in our communities, I’m aware of the many benefits this can have for organisations – building reputation, raising employee loyalty and establishing networks – and there has probably never been a more important time for this connection as we continue to see the negative impact of the pandemic on communities.

“The Chamber’s aim is to help its members achieve their aspirations in supporting the communities in which they operate by getting 70% of our members active in local communities – so I hope I can support in increasing this number over the next year by sharing best practice and ideas, celebrating the work of members and providing encouragement to organisations to engage.”

Lindsey, who joined the housing sector via a management traineeship at Birmingham City Council before becoming one of the UK’s youngest housing association directors before the age of 30, has been chief executive of Futures Housing Group since 2003, when it was known as Amber Valley Housing.

She led it through the acquisition of Daventry and District Housing in 2007, as well as in buying a stake in Nottingham-based training provider Access Training – which helps more than 1,000 learners a year – and launching a grounds maintenance social enterprise Futures Greenscape, which last year merged into the wider group.

During her time at Futures, the organisation has doubled headcount to about 330 people, achieved Investors in People platinum accreditation and, earlier this year, moved from Ripley to a new 20,000 sq ft home called Futures House, based at Pegasus Business Park next to East Midlands Airport. Lindsey has also been a strategic leader on various boards and is an active member of the National Housing Federation in the region.

As well as inviting Chamber members to approach her to discuss how they can build links with their communities and encouraging them to put forward young leaders for Generation Next membership, she announced the three charities she will raise money for throughout 2022.

These are Treetops Hospice Care, an end-of-life care charity that operates in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire; Focus, which helps young people in Leicester to develop skills, confidence and aspirations; and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, which has helped protect the green spaces that have become so valuable during the pandemic.

Outgoing president Eileen Richards MBE, who owns Leicester-based ER Recruitment, presented her three charities – Chesterfield Samaritans, Help the Homeless Leicester and Nottinghamshire Hospice – with their equal share of the £12,000 she fundraised.

In her speech, she said: “I chose these three charities carefully to reflect the wide range of good work being done every day and I’m incredibly proud to have quadrupled the Chamber’s previous best amount thanks to the amazing generosity of our members and staff.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my year as president and feel very honoured for the experience. It has been immensely fulfilling to see my priority objectives take great strides forward.

“Members have come to us in huge volumes and almost two-thirds have accessed at least one service; Generation Next has developed significantly to establish its own shadow board and stage its first awards event; and our strategy to help shape the region’s economic recovery has been witnessed by the Kickstart Scheme, in which we have helped to fill more than 1,500 placements.

“It was also exciting to see our Business Awards return to face-to-face events and encapsulate the best of all that our people and members do. Each of our three ceremonies highlighted the outstanding talent we are blessed with in our region.”

During the Chamber’s AGM, which was hosted by chair of the board of directors Ian Morgan OBE, Stuart Dawkins was elected as the new vice-president. He brings a wide range experience, including heading strategic planning and corporate communications for a FTSE 100 company, and has been a bord member for organisations for a wide variety of sectors.

New directors elected to the board were University of Derby commercial director Dr Peter Dewhurst, Geldards LLP chairman David Williams, SMB Group chief executive and principal Dawn Whitemore and Dr Cham Kang, chief visionary officer at business growth consultancy Qinesis.

David Campbell, director of the Chamber’s Derbyshire Business of the Year, SureScreen Diagnostics, which has supplied Covid-19 lateral flow tests to the UK and overseas, gave a speech about his company and there was a presentation for longstanding members of the Chamber.

Posted in Business, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , ,

Chesterfield Borough Council backs sustainable electricity bill

Chesterfield Borough Council has unanimously approved a motion that supports the Local Electricity Bill.

The motion means the council will support the bill when applied to renewable electricity and will also write to local MPs to encourage them to support the bill in parliament. The Local Electricity Bill empowers community groups, local businesses and councils to become local energy suppliers, which aims to help ensure that the supply of renewable energy across the UK can be increased.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It was important for the full council to support this motion and for us to support the Local Electricity Bill in principle, because we all agree that we must reduce our carbon emissions in order to minimise the effects of climate change. We are already doing lots to reduce emissions in Chesterfield but energy remains one of the most significant areas to decarbonise.

“I hope our local MPs will listen to our motion and support this bill in parliament. It could help revolutionise electricity supply and create new local networks of renewable energy generation, which is essential to helping reduce emissions both in Chesterfield and across the UK.”

Currently to sell electricity there is a high cost because of complex grid balancing codes and network agreements, which is a barrier to entry for small local electricity generation.

The Local Electricity Bill aims to remove this barrier, making it financially viable for electricity generators to sell directly to local people.

The bill would establish a Right to Local Supply which would make the setup and running costs of selling renewable electricity to local people proportionate to the size of the supply company.

Provided the carbon cap on electricity generation is low enough it could lead to increasing the supply of local renewable electricity which could help the UK meet its climate change targets.

The council will now write to local MPs to encourage them to support this bill in parliament.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

College Santa Dash raises vital funds for Derbyshire Stroke Centre

Students and staff from Chesterfield College took part in a 3km Santa Dash earlier this week to raise money for Derbyshire Stroke Centre.

There was a sea of Santas, a team of elves, a Christmas tree, a Grinch and plenty of other fantastic festive fancy dress costumes at the event in Queens Park in Chesterfield.

The participants all braved the rain to support the Principal’s Charity of the Year. Their efforts raised over £600, which the charity say is vital to help them carry out their work and develop services to support people who have suffered a stroke.

Debbie Newton from Derbyshire Stroke Centre came to the event to cheer on the runners. Before she started the race she commented: “I am amazed at the turnout today, it is fantastic. Fundraising has taken a back seat during the pandemic so whatever we are able to raise is amazing.

“Events like this are superb and very important to raise awareness about the centre and the support that is available as well. We are currently fundraising for specialist transport for people with mobility issues to access our day centre. We offer a door to door service.”

The centre offers a community for stroke survivors. It has a café and a gym on site. It also provide a day centre which offers lots of activities from exercise to dance groups as well as singers and entertainers. At the moment around 50 to 100 people use the service over the week.

The Santa Dashers were keen to raise funds for the centre and enjoyed a bit of healthy competition too. There were prizes for the fastest student and staff runners as well as for the best fancy dress outfits.

Students from across the college took part in the dash. Media students took photographs and videos to document the event and public services students marshalled the event.

Julie Richards, Principal and Chief Executive Officer of The Chesterfield College group said; “It was wonderful to see so many staff and students supporting Derbyshire Stroke Centre this morning. I’d like to thank them for their generosity and community spirit.

“Not only was it a fantastic festive start to the last week of term before the Christmas holidays, I know the money raised by will be put to good use. The service the charity provides offers such a lifeline to so many people and I am proud that the college is able to support them.”

Chesterfield College supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Christmas, Home, Leisure, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Chesterfield Champions reflect on 2021 and look ahead to the new year

As we enter the festive season and the new year, Chesterfield Champions have been sharing their successes and reflecting on the challenges and progress made throughout 2021.

If you love Chesterfield and would like to chat about becoming a Champion, find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/destination-chesterfield/champions/

Find out what local businesses and organisations had to say below, as we head into 2022.

Rod Auton, Chesterfield Canal Trust

“It’s weird to think nothing happened for the first four or five months of the year, but we adapted wonderfully.  This resulted in our trip boats and our Information Centre & Shop both being really busy; and more than 1,000 seats booked on our Chesterfield Santa Special cruises.

“The restrictions have made people explore their own town more and discover how great it is, including the canal where towpath use has gone up hugely. We are now looking forward to the final Government approval of the Staveley Town Deal next spring, receiving the money and starting detailed planning of the restoration of our beautiful canal. We are also working out our carbon footprint as a first step towards becoming a carbon net-zero organisation.”

Amy Revell, We Are Spaces

“I have been super impressed with how resilient and positive the Chesterfield business community is. Everyone is supporting one another and are super ambitious for the future. Chesterfield has performed strongly against all the national statistics in relation to unemployment and job creation, especially for under 25s, which is fantastic news.

“I am hoping the risk and consequences of COVID reduces as we move into 2022. It’s been a tough few years for many, but I know we will continue to be resilient, push innovation and draw new investment into our fantastic town of Chesterfield!”

Howard Freeman, Shorts Chartered Accountants

“2021 was yet another challenging year for the region’s businesses, with many continuing to show resilience and diversification. I’m proud of the way our region has pulled together and facilitated new opportunities, with many businesses going from strength to strength. We’re looking forward to 2022 when we hope to see even more of a return to the normality, that we all recognise.”

Nick Hogan, Chesterfield Escape Rooms

“After opening on 17th May 2021, we have had over 5000 players through our doors, and this has given me the confidence to expand the business and create a fourth room.  I am really excited about the new Chesterfield Games Quarter which will service all of the gaming needs of the town.”

Fiaz Sadiq, ActionCoach

“We’ve celebrated a number of successes in 2021, not least doubling our team members and clients. I have been really impressed with the resilience of the Chesterfield community and it wanting to help each other. I hope in 2022 that there is more financial support for local business and supporting wellbeing in the community.”

Joe Cattee, Director, Peak Pharmacy

“The challenges we’ve faced this last year have been extraordinary. We’ve had to adapt our pharmacies, depots and offices to ensure that they are as Covid compliant as possible, whilst juggling staff shortages due to positive tests results. Despite this we have managed to administer nearly 50,000 Covid jabs to date, as well as provide 48,000 flu vaccinations.

“Our staff have been fantastic during this whole process. Looking to 2022, we are looking to really invest in the area next year, relocating our sites into one depot. This will support our ambition to be as sustainable as possible and being as carbon neutral as possible over the next decade.”

Richard Fowler, Technical Sales and Account Manager, Ra Information Systems

“Having worked alongside our customers for over two decades we have seen technology play a pivotal role in enabling business success and continuity. We have worked closely with our customers throughout 2021, supporting them to adjust to changing demands. We were delighted that our proactive approach to product development was recognised when we won the Flexible Space Association award in Technology Innovation 2021.”

Chris Sellars, Managing Director, Bridge Help

“2021 saw Bridge Help undergo a rebrand, a recruitment drive and a move to larger premises which we have already outgrown. It’s been a year of sustained growth which is showing no signs of slowing down and which means we’ll shortly be moving to larger offices. It’s not just at Bridge Help where I see growth.

“Chesterfield has always had a resilient business community and I continue to be impressed at how businesses have adapted and evolved to both survive and thrive throughout Covid and Brexit. Bridge Help is very proud to be part of the community. The team and I are looking forward to working closely with more local businesses, sports clubs and charities in 2022. Exciting times are ahead.”

Tom Swallow, Development Manager, Bolsterstone Group PLC

“2021 has been a formative year for Chesterfield Waterside. Works continues apace on the Waterside Quarter with Avant Homes with excellent sales progress. Construction of the office block also continues to progress and we are now close to completion. Despite the challenges of Covid, I have been particularly impressed by the resilience of the contractors at Waterside and the continued progress of other exciting schemes across the borough.

“The amount of progress we are now seeing is testament to the investment confidence in the town, Chesterfield Borough Council and their forward-thinking vision. Our office at Waterside, One Waterside Place, will welcome its first tenants next year – that is an office party I am very much looking forward to!

Anna Melton, Director, In the Works PR

Anna Melton - In The Works PR

“The end of year COVID restrictions, while a disappointment, must not overshadow the successes of the town and its businesses. I am very fortunate to work with a number of businesses and projects in the town and I have been so impressed how, uncomplainingly, they have adapted quickly to the ever-changing COVID landscape throughout 2021.

“Their resilience, can-do attitude and forward-thinking makes me very proud to be part of the business community in Chesterfield and I am filled with hope and enthusiasm for 2022.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council

“It’s been an incredibly challenging year for everyone in our community, but I am deeply proud of the spirit and resilience that has shone through from Chesterfield people and businesses – pulling together to help one another.

“While the pandemic is not over yet, 2022 brings hope and our borough has a bright future. Our ambitious investment and regeneration projects mean we’re in a strong place to recover from the impact of the pandemic at a faster rate than many other towns. We will continue to work closely with the community to make sure Chesterfield remains a thriving borough.”

Peter Swallow, Chair, Destination Chesterfield

“2021 has been a year of change and adaptation which has seen the town’s drive, commitment and community spirit come to the fore. As we continue to navigate through one of the most testing periods in recent history we have shown, once again that Chesterfield is resilient and forward thinking.

“New developments have come out of the ground and plans are in place for a further £1billion of developments across the borough. This will bring employment and opportunity to local people, not just in 2022 but far beyond that. Exciting times are ahead for Chesterfield – it is a town, and community, which I am proud to be part of.”

Hannah Bowdler, Junction Arts

“Junction Arts’ main aim for 2021 has been to bring our communities back together again. It has been a year of returning to face-to-face workshops and support within our communities helping people to feel confident and give them something to look forward to. A highlight has been bringing back one of our largest annual events back to the Chesterfield Canal: The Tapton Lock Festival.  And this year was our busiest yet! We were so proud this festival enabled people to reclaim the canal as a space to use and enjoy together at a local event.”

Sarah Temperton, Chief Executive, NLT Training Services

 

“What a year it has been. Like all training providers we have juggled the ever-changing COVID regulations to ensure people can access the training they need to do their jobs properly and safely. It has also opened our eyes to a gap in training provision; older people in particular who find themselves out of work. Looking to 2022, NLT is drawing on its charitable roots and will be working with a number of grass roots charities and groups in the area to ensure that free training is available to help people get work-ready. The team and I are very excited by the prospect.”

Charlotte Watson, Interior Designer, SDE Group

“As always, SDE Group have continued to look at ways in which we can expand. Our latest highlight is the launch of SDE Electrical where we have responded to the continued growth in the electric vehicles market and introduced our EV Charging service. Our 3D Design team have grown due to the increase in demand for 3D design and visualisations, welcoming university graduates to develop their career within interior and industrial design. We are looking forward to another successful year in 2022!”

Rebecca Priest, JP Fire Safety

“As we come to the end of what was meant to be a more positive year, we count ourselves thankful that we have continued to see consistent growth. With an increased workforce and the lease signed on new offices on Beresford Way, 2022 looks set to be another successful year for JP Fire Safety Solutions. By continuing to adapt and develop different ways of working we look forward to a healthy and prosperous 2022.”

Julie Richards, Principal and CEO of Chesterfield College Group

“The sheer determination and willingness of so many local people and organisations to support our students and apprentices to achieve has impressed me this year. I am forever grateful to teaching and support staff of the college for the work they do every day. I must also thank employers for creating so many work experience opportunities this year.

“We have excellent partnerships with employers who are as committed as we are to ensure they have a workforce for the future. I am looking forward to developing even stronger partnerships with employers and exploring more innovative ways to help businesses and individuals bounce back from the effects of the pandemic or take advantage of new opportunities it might have created.”

James Pogson, Director, Northern Tea Merchants

Northern Tea Merchants

“I think we all thought 2021 was going to be a breeze compared to 2020 but in many ways it’s been harder, with even greater uncertainties… Having said that 2021 has still seen huge strides being made by Northern Tea Merchants in our sustainability journey and is something we are really proud of.

“I am delighted to share that ALL our teabags are now made with fully biodegradable teabag paper, and we are working hard on our journey to become carbon neutral and as part of this, we are now planting a tree for every web order placed. We have exciting plans for 2022 which we know many of our tea and coffee devotees are going to really love.”

Theresa Goldsmith, Owner, The Goldsmith Clinic

 

“Another year amidst a global pandemic has been a whirlwind for sure! As a close contact business and a registered nurse practitioner, my main aim is to keep our patients safe and well and we have certainly been kept on our toes with the ever-changing COVID regulations. However, we have managed to grow exponentially in 2021 introducing ground-breaking treatments to The Goldsmith Clinic.

“We are finishing the year on a high by adding another two treatment rooms and taking on a full-time beauty therapist that will appeal to a new customer base for us. The entire team are very much looking forward to 2022 and sharing our passion for skin health with the good people of Chesterfield.”

Neil Johnson, Managing Director, DBCP

“It has been so encouraging to see development projects progressing in 2021 despite COVID restrictions, not only in Chesterfield but throughout Derbyshire bringing real benefits to the local economy. The team at DBCP has been phenomenally busy all year prompting the creation of a number of new jobs.

“And there are no signs of slowing down in 2022, which is a direct reflection of the town’s resilience and can-do approach. Planning for the future demands of DBCP, building control and the town, next year will see us recruit two degree apprentices. The prospect of developing the career of school leavers here in the town is something the team and I are very much looking forward to. Chesterfield really is a town of opportunity.”

Izabella Edwards, Managing Director, Edwards Employment Solutions

“2021 has been another colossal year for many industries and people and, it seems, is not going to end quietly. Despite the pandemic, we have experienced two busy and successful years, helping many key worker industries to find the staff they need. We are also ending the year on a high, having just recruited three new team members – an apprentice and two people via the Kickstart scheme.

“We are committed to giving them the help and support they need to really enjoy and succeed in the industry during the programmes, but more than that, helping them to progress here at Edwards. We are really looking forward to 2022 and helping many more local businesses and people find the staff and jobs they need.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

Grassmoor Memorial Parkland to honour those lost to COVID-19

The first steps towards creating a lasting memorial parkland to remember and honour local people who died from COVID-19 and pay tribute to the work of the NHS have been taken with the planting of the first trees.

A ceremony held earlier this month (Wednesday, 8th December) saw Council Leader Councillor Barry Lewis and Civic Chairman Councillor Jean Wharmby help to plant a Japanese flowering cherry tree at Grassmoor Country Park near Chesterfield. An avenue of oak trees has already been planted at the site.

The ceremonial planting was attended by multi-faith representatives, Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Environment Councillor Carolyn Renwick, an NHS representative, members of the Friends of Grassmoor Country Park and our countryside service staff. Attendees made short speeches about the effects of COVID-19 on their communities and welcomed the start of work on the memorial parkland.

Councillor Barry Lewis said: “The idea for the memorial parkland came from a lady who contacted me during the pandemic and had lost loved ones to COVID-19 and wanted somewhere to remember them and celebrate their lives.

“From that conversation the idea grew, and what we will have as the trees grow is a beautiful, green, peaceful space where people will be able to sit, walk, reflect and remember.

“I’m incredibly honoured to have been part of the ceremony to mark the first trees being planted and very pleased we have been able to make this happen.”

Council Civic Chairman Councillor Jean Wharmby said: “This has been an incredibly poignant and moving event to officially mark the start of our memorial parkland, which will grow and grow.

“So many of us have been affected by COVID-19 and sadly many have experienced the loss of someone close to them.“While we know the pandemic is far from over, we are beginning the process of recovery and healing, and the start of the memorial parkland is part of that process. In years to come people will be able to visit this area of Grassmoor Country Park and remember and celebrate the lives of those who were lost. It already feels like a truly special place.”

The county council agreed the creation of the memorial parkland in September and it has been supported by the Friends of Grassmoor Country Park.

The memorial parkland will be designed in keeping with the character of the local landscape and will feature a native wildflower meadow with an avenue of trees including wild cherry, rowan, hazel, birch, hawthorn, dogwood, oak, wych elm, willow and aspen. These trees have been selected for their spiritual meaning and to give displays of blossom in the spring and fruit for birds and other wildlife in the summer and autumn. They will be complemented by smaller, native shrub species.

A walkway to a memorial feature is also proposed, which will be made accessible to all.

The ceremonial tree planting marks the first phase of work to develop the memorial parkland area, and in time the newly created area will become a location for people to visit, spend time and remember loved ones lost during the pandemic. Further work to install seating to provide an area for quiet contemplation overlooking the parkland as it matures would follow in the second phase of the project.

Friends of Grassmoor Country Park have agreed to help the council with the planting and maintenance of the memorial parkland which will contribute to the authority’s target of planting a million trees by 2030.

Grassmoor Country Park is a popular country park that was developed on a reclaimed colliery site. It is easily accessible from Junction 29 of the M1 and the A617 and can be visited by bus.

The attendees included: The Bishop of Repton, Reverend Malcolm Macnaughton, Chief Executive of Derby and Derbyshire Clinical Commissioning Group Dr Chris Clayton, Jewish Faith Trustee at the Multi-Faith Centre Ruth Dolby, Chairman of the Muslim Welfare Association Farooq Saddique, Buddhist community representative Keith Munnings, Zen Buddhist community representative Julian Bowers-Brown, and Friends of Grassmoor Country Park Councillor Lee Hartshorne and Peter Myers.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

Local Hospice encourages residents to take part in ‘Ashgate to the North Pole’ challenge

People from across North Derbyshire are being invited to collectively run, walk, cycle or swim  the distance between Ashgate Hospice and the North Pole, to help the charity be there for the families who need its support most this Christmas time.

The mammoth fundraising challenge, called ‘Ashgate to the North Pole’, will see participants race more than 2,167 miles before Christmas Day.

Whether you’re setting yourself a target of running a couple of miles a day or heading out on a weekly cycle across the Peaks, taking part in the challenge will help fund the charity care for patients and their families living with a life-limiting illness.

Those who sign up to the free virtual event can compete against friends, family and colleagues in the online league table.

Savannah Redhead, Events Fundraiser at Ashgate Hospice, said: “We’re delighted to be able to launch our brand-new virtual Ashgate to the North Pole event!

“We’re inviting you to join us on our collective trip to the North Pole so we can bring some festive cheer to our patients both at the hospice and in the community.

“Whether you’re an avid runner or prefer to take the bike out for a Sunday cycle, your efforts will mean so much to us and the families who need us.

“We rely on the generosity of our community to raise millions of pounds each year to help fund our specialist care. And at Christmas time that means helping our patients and their families to create precious memories together.

“So, what are you waiting for? Come and help us achieve our collective challenge of reaching 2,167 miles over the festive period – we know we can reach the goal with your support!”

Everyone who raises £50 in sponsorship or more will receive a festive treat that will be available to collect from the hospice.

Ashgate is hoping that fundraisers who take part will help fund a special gift on its Christmas list to Santa this year:

  • £6 could pay for a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings for a patient.
  • £15 could pay for a counselling or creative therapy session, to help guide a bereaved person through the darkest of times
  • £18 could pay for a one-hour visit from a Community Nurse in a patient’s home over the festive period.

Participants can choose to use the mobile phone app Strava to track their activity or manually input their miles themselves – it’s entirely up to each individual.

Taking part in Ashgate to the North Pole will help families like Elaine Clarke’s, whose mum, Sheila Clarke, received Day Services support before spending her final days on the hospice’s Inpatient Unit.

Sheila died in October 2015, aged 78, after being diagnosed with vulval cancer the year before.

Elaine said: “I had a really hard time accepting my mum’s diagnosis but was able to receive support from Ashgate Hospice, who helped me through the whole experience tremendously.

“The care my mum had really was second-to-none; she was so well looked after, and I don’t know what we would have done without the support of the team at Ashgate.

“I’ll never forget my mum made a special friend with a lady in the next room to her.

“Over the weeks the friendship became so special between them both that the staff moved them out of the rooms and into a ward area where their beds could be placed side-by-side.

“That’s just one example of how everyone at Ashgate goes above and beyond for each and every family it cares for.”

To find out more about the Ashgate to the North Pole fundraising challenge and how you can take part go to www.ashgatehospice.org.uk/events.

Alternatively, you can contact Ashgate’s Fundraising Team by calling 01246 567250 or by emailing events@ashgatehospice.org.uk.

Ashgate Hospice supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Christmas, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

Hot Tub Award Success for Superior Wellness

Chesterfield based Superior Wellness were successful in winning four awards at the prestigious UK Pool and Spa awards, held on 13 December 2021 in Birmingham.

The first accolade was for International Team of the Year – the team has doubled in size in the last 12 months and between them can speak six different languages. International sales account for 13% of total sales vs 3% the prior year highlighting the sheer success and growth. The team are focusing on further expansion in Europe as well as the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The After Sales and Logistics team have also created new roles to support international customers including a French speaking customer service advisor.

The second award was for Best Marketing Initiative – awarded for the Channel 5 documentary ‘Hot Tub Brits – More Bubbles Please!’ which featured Superior Wellness. The marketing team also received a Gold Award for the Superior Wellness rebrand, the 10-year anniversary campaign and the partnership with Fibromyalgia Action UK. Sarah Elphick, Head of Marketing said: “The team have transformed the marketing during the last 12 months and continue to take it to the next level. I am very proud of what we have achieved so far and excited about 2022.”

The third award was for Spa Supplier of the Year; over the past year the partner network has grown to over 200 partners. Gareth Ward, Sales Director said: “It has been an incredible year for our business and industry as a whole and we are delighted that our efforts and dedication has been recognised with this award win. A huge thank to all our partners and suppliers for their continued support.”

And last but certainly not least the evening ended with Rob Carlin, Managing Director winning the prestigious Special Achievement Award. The award marked the 10-year anniversary of Superior Wellness.

Rob Carlin said: “It has been an incredibly special year for Superior Wellness, which is why the Special Achievement Award is so fitting in this particular year. We moved into our new 130,000 sq ft head office and warehouse in March. The move coincided with the ten-year anniversary on 28 April; which was a huge milestone for the whole team.

“It is a great honour for us all to end the year with the award success, the team have been working hard all year and it’s great to see that all of their hard work has been recognised. I am extremely proud of the whole team.”

Superior Wellness also received a Gold Award for the following categories:
• UK Team of the Year
• Spa Product of the Year – Thermals Spas Hydro hot tub
• Spa Product of the Year – Platinum Spas Onyx 2021 hot tub
• Energy Efficiency Eco Award – Platinum Premium Shield
• Energy Efficiency Eco Award – Superior Wellness Head Office
• Above Ground Hot Tub Project of the Year – the Bowen Home Project

Showcasing the best examples of spa and home wellness design from across the country, the UK Pool & Spa Awards celebrated it eleventh anniversary with featured projects and products.

Winners across 30 categories were announced during the prestigious awards.

The entrants were awarded gold, silver or bronze standard in the competition covering both home and public pool and spa facilities in a contest that attracted on-line votes and votes from judges, before being scrutinised by an independent jury.

More information on the awards, including a full list of winners, can be found at www.ukpoolandspaawards.co.uk

The awards ceremony took place on Monday 13 December at the Vox, Resorts World, Birmingham.

Superior Wellness supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

The Chesterfield venues seeing in 2022 in style

Chesterfield’s best restaurants, hotels and hospitality venues will be making sure people across North Derbyshire can see in the new year with their loved ones at the end of 2021.

There’s no better time than a New Year’s Eve party than to come together and celebrate the achievements of the last year, while looking ahead to what 2022 will bring.

We’ve compiled a list of just some of the venues hosting celebrations in our area, so you can be sure to finish off the festive season with a bang!

Don’t forget there’s still time to get your Christmas shopping done here in Chesterfield. For great gift ideas, delicious food and drink, and fun festive activities and events, head over to our Christmas In Chesterfield Page!

(All the listings below are subject to availability. Book early to avoid disappointment. Listings may change depending on Covid-19 protocols. Contact the venues for more information.)

Van Dyk

new year

Welcome In The New Year at Van Dyk by Wildes, with options to suit different tastes and budgets…

Garden Ballroom

Black Tie Dinner with Live Entertainment – £115 per person
It’s the biggest night of the year, so welcome 2022 in style. Enjoy a black tie dinner with live music!

The Chapel

7 Course Meal and Live Pianist – £85 per person
If sophisticated and intimate is more your preference, then New Years Eve in the Chapel restaurant is the perfect location to relax and enjoy a 7 course meal with a live pianist.

Sherwood Suite

Disco & Meal – £59 per person
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a Dinner & Disco. A fantastic night out with a 3 course plated meal. A brilliant night to see in the new year with family and friends.

Call the reservations team on 01246 387 386 or email: guest.services@vandykbywildes.co.uk

More info: https://www.vandykbywildes.co.uk/festive-dining

Ringwood Hall

New Years Eve Masked Ball

Dress Code Strictly Black Tie – £105.00 per person

Hosted by a resident DJ and complemented with amazing table magic by Ringwood’s close hand magician, this event is not to be missed!

  • Kir Royale and canapes at 7.00pm. Dinner at 7.45pm prompt.
  • Bar available until 1.30am with bacon butties served at 1.30am, Disco concludes at 2.00am. Carriages at 2.15am
  • New Year Residential Package and Spa packages also available.

Contact on – 01246 280077 or Email: Sales@ringwoodhallhotel.com

More info: https://ringwoodhallhotel.com/christmas/

Chesterfield FC

Proact Stadium - DT Business Awards

New Year’s Eve Party 2021

Join the Spireites for a New Year’s Eve party with a great night of entertainment from The Soul Sensation. Saying “Goodbye 2020, hello 2021” in style!

Includes:

  • Prosecco reception, with luxury canapes at 7pm
  • Exquisite five-course banquet, served at 7:30pm
  • Live entertainment from The Soul Sensation
  • Resident DJ
  • Bar closes at 1:30am and the function ends at 2am
  • Dress Code: Black Tie, Cocktail Dresses and Dancing Shoes!
  • £75 per person

Email: events@chesterfield-fc.co.uk

More info: https://tickets.chesterfield-fc.co.uk/en-GB/categories/Events

Casa Hotel

Casa Hotel has a number of options available for dining and parties on New Year’s Eve, including the luxurious Barcelona Suite, and the stylish Barca Bar

New Year’s Eve Dining Experience
Friday 31st December / 6pm – 10pm – £70 per person
Indulge in a luxurious 3 course meal with a glass of chilled Champagne on arrival.

New Year’s Eve in the Barcelona Suite
Friday 31st December / 7pm – £100 per person

More info: https://www.casahotels.co.uk/

Peak Edge Hotel

Spice Girls Tribute Peak Edge Hotel

New year’s eve at The Red Lion

  • £70 per person

Join the team at The Red Lion to round off the old and welcome in the new. The indulgent New Year’s Eve menu is the perfect way to celebrate with your family and friends in a stylish yet cosy setting.

New year’s eve in The Ashover Suite

  • £100 per person

Enjoy a night of pure luxury with Champagne and canapés welcoming you on arrival at 7pm, followed by a delicious four-course meal and live entertainment. The resident DJ will continue the party to welcome you into 2022.
Dress code: Dress to impress (no jeans or trainers)

More info: https://www.peakedgehotel.co.uk/occasions/christmas/

Brampton Manor

R’n’B and Funk New Year’s Eve party 

Join Brampton Manor for its ‘fuNkYE’ R’n’B, Soul and Funk New Year’s Eve, priced at £15 per person.

Bring in 2022 with a bang! Brampton Manor’s very own DJ Shaggy will be playing the best in R’n’B, Soul and Funk!

  • Tickets priced at £15pp includes a delicious Soul Food Buffet.
  • Doors open 7pm.

More Info: https://bramptonmanor.co.uk/event/our-funkye-soul-and-funk-new-years-eve/

Fox and Goose Inn

Celebrating the best of Derbyshire cuisine on New Year’s Eve

To bring in 2022 in style, The Fox & Goose Inn is hosting a special New Year’s Eve dinner & disco Tasting menu.

A 6 Course Celebration of Derbyshire Fayre, including:

  • Champagne & Canapés on Arrival
  • Selection of Derbyshire Tapas
  • A Bakewell Gin Sorbet
  • A Choice of fresh locally Sourced Dishes
  • An Assiette of Desserts
  • A variety of Derbyshire Cheeses and Oatcakes for the table

Arrival 8pm, Disco in the Old Pub Snug from 10:30pm Shuttle Service for groups of 6 or more.

£65 per person

More info: 01246 566335 or www.thefoxandgooseinn.com/nye

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NHS recruitment event to take place in Chesterfield in the new year

A recruitment event is set to take place in the new year, showcasing the opportunities available within the NHS across Derbyshire.

Derbyshire Healthcare is a specialist provider of children’s, learning disability, substance misuse and mental health services – across community, inpatient and other settings. The Trust is actively looking to recruit Band 5 and 6 registered mental health and learning disability nurses, as well as occupational therapists.

To assist with this a series of recruitment events around the county are being planned, with the first one taking place from 10.00am-3.00pm on 15 January in Chesterfield at the Technique Stadium. There will be staff available to chat to about working for the Trust and the opportunities that are available. To make the recruitment process more effective and efficient, applications will be handled on the day, with interviews and conditional offers being made at the same time.

The Trust employs more than 2,800 staff providing services from several community and inpatient settings across the whole of Derbyshire. Across the county and the city, it serves a combined population of approximately one million people.  The Trust is looking for enthusiastic, talented and compassionate qualified staff to provide quality children’s, mental health, learning disability and substance misuse services to the people of Derbyshire.

The Trust is positive about making a difference to the people who use its services and we can offer a great career. It is also growing – with lots of local investment in services and new services being developed, offering lots of opportunities to colleagues.  There are also some innovative progression schemes, such as a Band 5 to Band 6 progression scheme for inpatient nurses.

The first in a series of recruitment events will take place on Saturday 15 January at the Technique Stadium in Chesterfield, focusing on opportunities in our acute and community mental health teams for nursing and occupational therapy colleagues.

If you are interest in attending the event, which will run from 10.00am – 3.00pm, you can register your interest by contacting the team at: DCHST.peopleresourceteam@nhs.net

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Chesterfield residents encouraged to support local theatres across the festive season

The Pomegranate and Winding Wheel Theatres in Chesterfield have a packed line up across the festive season and into the New Year to keep everyone entertained.

This year’s Pantomime Beauty and the Beast is currently on stage at the Pomegranate and will run until Sunday 2 January 2022.

Tickets are still available for the production that stars West End actress, pop star and TV personality Suzanne Shaw as Belle, with Thomas Redgrave from Britain’s Got Talent Winners Collabro as Gaston and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Andrew Fleming in the comedy role of Philippe Philoppe.

If you enjoy seeing Ballet there is a satellite broadcast of The Nutcracker by the Royal Ballet in January and Ballet Theatre UK will be taking to the stage with their re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale ballet, The Snow Queen both at the Pomegranate Theatre.

If you are looking to celebrate 2022 in style, there is a New Year’s Eve Party including a five-course meal and a DJ and then later in January a New Year Viennese Gala Concert from Sheffield Symphony Orchestra both taking place at the Winding Wheel Theatre.

You can also enjoy satellite broadcast of Christmas with André Rieu as part of the Pomegranate Theatre’s cinema programme on 5 and 6 January.

Theatre tickets can also be purchased as gifts for Christmas, and these can be sent directly to your inbox, so you don’t have to visit the box office in person if you are short on time this month.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “There are lots of great performances to be seen at our local theatres from the annual Pantomime to Ballet, there is something on offer for everyone to enjoy.

“Theatres across the country have had a difficult 18 months due to the ongoing pandemic, so we encourage residents and visitors to keep supporting both the Pomegranate and Winding Wheel Theatres and enjoy all of the entertainment there is to see there.”

Tickets for the pantomime and all of the other productions are on sale now via chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk or from the Box Office on 01246 345222.

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West Studios marks landmark anniversary for tenant Junction Arts with Christmas giving tree

This year, to celebrate West Studios tenant and charity, Junction Arts 45th Anniversary, West Studios are hosting their first Christmas Giving Tree celebrating the work they have done across North East Derbyshire, Bolsover district and Chesterfield.

Junction Arts is a community arts charity embedded within communities facing social barriers such as poverty, poor mental health and isolation. They work across the community in care homes, schools, youth clubs and directly with families offering opportunities to be creative, learn new skills and create lasting and supportive friendships. Best known for their events Tapton Lock Festival and Bolsover Lantern Parade, the charity is also hosting Chesterfield’s first lantern parade on the 19th December.

West Studios is supporting Junction Arts campaign to raise £3000 this Christmas to go towards new projects and events to celebrate what matters most to communities across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Joby Parsons, Events & Sales Coordinator, West Studios said: “Junction Arts are a fantastic organisation that uses the arts to bring communities together and help our most isolated and vulnerable. Their values align closely with those of West Studios which is why our community believes it’s so important to give them support, especially at Christmas when those isolated and vulnerable individuals are at more risk.”

Hannah Bowdler, Relationship Fundraiser at Junction Arts commented: “Through the generous support of individuals, local businesses and our incredible volunteers, Junction Arts has been able to carry our aim of bringing our communities back together safely and confidently in 2021! The support of the West Studios Giving Tree signifies our plans to continue vital creative activities which empower lives and create strong and supportive friendships within our communities.”

To support Junction Arts, West Studios is welcoming people to visit the Gallery Shop reception to see the tree, donate and find out more about the charity.  You can also donate directly through Junction Arts online giving page:  https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/18702#!/DonationDetails

Donations will support local creative workshops giving isolated and vulnerable older people the chance to reconnect with their community; help the charity to create events that give young families the space and time to make magical memories together; and offer opportunities for young people to learn new skills, building their confidence to reach new heights.

West Studios and Junction Arts support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Christmas, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,