Author: Tara Underhill

Banner Jones puts best foot forward for Ashgate Hospicecare

29th August 2017

Banner Jones Solicitors has raised £1,000 for Ashgate Hospicecare by completing a fundraising walk around the scenic Linacre Reservoirs.

The team clocked up a combined total of 240 miles on the day, with over 40 people taking part, including employees of Banner Jones, friends and family.

Ashgate Hospicecare, an independent registered charity, which provides care to patients across North Derbyshire at its hospice, in the community and at Chesterfield Royal Hospital, relies on the generosity of the local community and a team of volunteers to provide a range of vital services offered free of charge to those with a life-limiting illness.

Ali Darwood, the organiser of the sponsored walk on behalf of the team at Banner Jones, said: “The walk was a fantastic experience for everyone and we’re really pleased to have raised so much for Ashgate (Hospicecare), as it’s such a worthwhile cause.

“As a business, we feel that it is important to give something back to the communities within which we work and, as such, we regularly participate in charitable events and fundraisers across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire.”

Josanne Richardson from Ashgate Hospicecare, has said: “As the demand for our services grow, so does the need for funding. As a charity the fundraising and support that local businesses provide through events such as this is absolutely vital to ensure that we can continue to support the people in our care.

“We have a longstanding relationship with Banner Jones and are so grateful that they continue to support our cause in all of their fundraising and charity efforts.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Summer

Derbyshire students succeed in new GCSE exams

29th August 2017

Provisional results show that 75% of Year 11 students in Derbyshire achieved grades four to nine in English this year and 59% achieved grades five to nine.

In maths, 70% of Year 11 students achieved grades four to nine and 49% achieved grades five to nine.

The traditional A* to G grades have been replaced with a nine to one system, with nine being the highest mark. Grade seven is equivalent to an A under the old system and a four is equivalent to a C.

More than 7,200 students across the county’s 45 secondary schools received their results on Thursday 24 August 2017 with many outstanding stories from both schools and individual students.

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Young People Councillor Alex Dale said:

“It’s fantastic news that early indications show our GCSE students have done so well.

“Not only are GCSEs qualifications for life but they also teach young people valuable skills such as time management, organisational skills and revision techniques − skills they can take with them to the next stage of their career − whether that’s vocational or academic.

“I want to congratulate all the students for their hard work and dedication. I also want to thank heads, teachers, staff, governors, parents and our school improvement service for supporting our young people in achieving their success.”

This year English and maths are the first subjects to be graded under the new system. By 2020 all GCSEs will be graded in this way.

Further education or training options open to Year 11 students are:

– full-time education such as sixth form, college or work-based learning
– an apprenticeship
– part-time education or training if they are employed, self-employed or volunteering for more than 20 hours a week.

Councillor Dale added:

“Whatever results students may have received it’s important they know what options are open to them as they stay on in education or training.

“Staying on in education or work-based training opens up a lot of doors for young people and offers a range of opportunities to learn new skills to get a future career they will enjoy.

“Even if students don’t do as well as expected in their GCSEs, schools can put them in touch with advisers who can go through all the options open to them. These include a wide range of vocational qualifications and apprenticeships which will be showcased at our Derbyshire Skills Festival.”

Students aged 15 to 19, including those in Year 11 who are considering their options after school are invited to attend the Derbyshire Skills Festival. This year’s event takes place on Thursday 14th September 2017 (3.30pm – 8.00pm) at Queen’s Park Sports Centre.

Training providers, the Armed Forces, larger employers and our community adult education service will be on hand to talk to young people. They will also be invited to take part in a range of have-a-go activities.

There will be sessions for young people with special educational needs and disabilities and young people who are not in education, employment or training will also be invited.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business

Perez joins new team ahead of Rockingham

24th August 2017

Chesterfield’s young racing driver, Seb Perez has found a new home with Lincolnshire-based Rob Boston Racing in time for this weekend’s Michelin Ginetta GT4 Supercup at Rockingham.

JHR Developments, which was the leading team in the Championship, was suspended from all Ginetta competitions for the remainder of the 2017 season pending an investigation by the Yorkshire manufacturer.

Perez, who is tenth in the series, has been joined by his teammate, Nottinghamshire’s George Gamble. Along with six other drivers, the pair will retain their points from Derbyshire-based JHR Developments.

Looking forward to new challenges, Perez said: “After a crazy week, myself and teammate George will stick together as we join Rob Boston Racing. Now (it is) onwards and upwards to Rockingham this coming weekend.”

The race will be broadcast live on Sunday on ITV 4 as a support race to the popular British Touring Car Championship.

Images and editorial courtesy of Paul Horton Motorsport Photography.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer

Ernie Moss Day raises more than £3k

24th August 2017

More than £3,000 has been raised so far for the Alzheimer’s Society and Team Ernie through fundraising efforts as part of last Saturday’s Ernie Moss Day.

The money has been raised from the sale of commemorative t-shirts and wristbands, together with a collection made on the day and a donation from Chesterfield FC following the sale of programmes and Brampton Brewery’s ‘Ernie 8’ ale.

The Moss family said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to the club and staff for all their support and our wonderful helpers on the day.

“Also a massive thanks to the fans for their never-ending support and to everyone who made Ernie Moss Day an emotional, proud day to remember…and of course to the lads for a win!”

A second Ernie Moss Day was held to honour Chesterfield’s record goalscorer, who is suffering from a form of dementia.

The fund will continue to grow as t-shirts and wristbands are still on sale in the Club Superstore at the Proact Stadium.

Photo by Tina Jenner: Ernie Moss carries the match ball out before Chesterfield’s game against Port Vale, joined by daughters Sarah (left) and Nikki.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

£5m funding to boost employment

3rd August 2017

Sheffield City Region is set to receive up to £5million from the Department of Work and Pensions to support more people into employment.

Thousands of disadvantaged people and those at risk of becoming long-term jobseekers across the region are set to receive a combination of specialist advice and support to get into work. The scheme will start in January and run for five years.

Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Borough Council and Chair of the SCR Skills, Employment and Education board, said: “I am very pleased to see this pilot, which will help underpin the inclusive approach of the Sheffield City Region.

“We are in the vanguard of this work. As we see the numbers of our high value jobs growing we are ensuring that no one in our communities misses out on this growth.”

Nigel Brewster, Vice Chair of the SCR Local Enterprise Partnership and Co-Chair of Skills, Employment and Education board, added: “This is a visionary exercise. Employers want the best people, and they are very keen to see help for those who face hurdles getting into work. This scheme will benefit the whole region.”

In the Sheffield City Region the scheme is expected to help support 3,000 people – including disabled people and older people. Employment and health specialists will work together to help vulnerable people facing multiple barriers to getting or keeping work.

Secretary of State for Work & Pensions, David Gauke said: “We have record numbers of people in work which is great news, but there are still people missing out on the available opportunities because of barriers to employment.

“This new scheme led by the Sheffield City Region is a great step forward in our efforts to identify groups of people most at risk of long-term unemployment, and ways we can support them in work.

“This pilot is yet another step forward in our efforts to help people of all backgrounds enjoy the benefits of work, and will boost the wide ranging support we currently offer through local experts like Jobcentre Plus.”

Northern Powerhouse Minister Jake Berry added: “We’re boosting jobs and growth across the Northern Powerhouse, with Sheffield City Region set to benefit from up to £5million for a new employment scheme. This pilot will help people across Sheffield City Region to find high quality jobs and help the people most vulnerable in the jobs market.”

Posted in Uncategorised

Craft beer and sports bar to open in Chesterfield

3rd August 2017

A new food, drink and live sports venue, specialising in craft beers, cocktails, artisan burgers and pizzas, is set to open in Chesterfield this weekend.

The All Saints Tap, based on St Mary’s Gate will open officially at 7.00pm on Friday 4th August.

A spokesperson from the All Saints Tap said: “Our concept has already proven to be extremely popular in some of most innovative cities across the UK, and we’re pleased to bring it to Chesterfield.

“Our vision is simple. We want to create somewhere that has a leading selection of the top craft beers the world has to offer, great food and exceptional service.”

“We will combine a number of the world’s most popular beers and carefully created cocktails with artisan burgers and pizzas. As well as all of this, we want to give you somewhere to watch your favourite live sports events on the big screen in a lively, social and laidback atmosphere.

“Plain and simple, we want to give you and your friends an unrivalled experience that you can shout about. No nonsense, just great food, drink and sport.”

The prominent building on St Mary Gate now home to The All Saints Tap was previously occupied by York House.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Striker extends Spireites stay

3rd August 2017

Chesterfield striker Kristian Dennis has signed an extension to his contract, which now runs until the summer of 2019.

After penning his new deal, Dennis said: “I am delighted to have extended my stay here at Chesterfield and I can’t wait for the season to start on Saturday.”

Chesterfield director & company secretary Ashley Carson said: “We are delighted to have secured Kristian on an extended contract as he is a very talented player.

“Signing him until 2019 shows the club’s commitment to the player and we think he will do very well this season.”

Dennis, 27, joined the Spireites last summer after leaving Stockport County and was Chesterfield’s top scorer last season with ten goals.

Destination Chesterfield: Chesterfield Football Club B2net stadium match day experience.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Chesterfield Rotary wins award

3rd August 2017

Chesterfield Rotary Club has been named Best Club in District 1220 by District Governor Michael Longdon.

The prestigious Gordon Taylor Trophy is presented to one club each year in Rotary District 1220, which covers 69 clubs throughout Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire and parts of Lincolnshire.

The award is recognition for Chesterfield Rotary’s thriving Satellite Club – the first of its kind set up for young professionals, who have so far contributed significantly to the local community.

The Gordon Taylor Trophy also commends the Rotary’s varied programme of charitable events.

Chesterfield president Peter Barr shared the success with Satellite Club members at the July monthly meeting held at The Manor at Brampton.

For more details about the Rotary Satellite Club of Chesterfield contact secretary Rachel Trueman 07792 719 238.

Image: Chesterfield Rotary president Peter Barr with satellite club chairman Peter Blant and members of the satellite club with the Gordon Taylor Trophy.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield

Spireites welcome Barrow

1st August 2017

Chesterfield manager Gary Caldwell has strengthened his backroom team with the appointment of Graham Barrow as assistant-manager/chief scout.

Barrow, who assisted Caldwell during his time as manager of Wigan Athletic, said: “I’m delighted to be here. I’ve had a good working relationship with Gary and we’ve always kept in touch.

“On matchdays, I’ll be up above in the stand watching the game and provide input. I’ll also help Guy Branston with recruitment.

“The set-up here is great and it’s all geared for success. I’ve got a wide range of experience so I hope to make a valuable contribution.”

Caldwell is pleased to be reunited with his former colleague. “I have 100% trust in Graham and I value his opinions,” he said.

“He has great knowledge at every level of the game. He will be a great help to me in various ways, including preparing for matches and signing players.”

After a playing career which took in lengthy spells at Wigan and Chester City, Barrow managed Chester (twice), Wigan, Rochdale and Bury. He also took charge of Wigan on a caretaker basis on several occasions.

The 63-year-old left Wigan in May, shortly before the appointment of former Spireites boss Paul Cook as manager.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Chamber seeks withdrawal roadmap following vote to leave EU

24th June 2016

East Midlands Chamber* believes that providing facts and clarity about the UK’s withdrawal from the EU should be the Government’s main focus after yesterday’s Referendum resulted in a vote to leave.

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber*, said: “The immediate priorities for UK business in the wake of this historic referendum result are market stability, economic security and political clarity. Business thrives on certainty, but the nation has been mired in uncertainty since the date of the ballot was announced.

“From a business perspective, the referendum debate was a shouting match, heavy on bombast and hyperbole but light on the sort of cool-headed information and mature argument that local business leaders required.

“Companies will expect swift, decisive, and coordinated action from the Government and the Bank of England to stabilise markets if trading conditions or the availability of capital change dramatically. They will also want an immediate and unambiguous statement from the Prime Minister on next steps, along with a clear timeline for the UK’s exit from the European Union.

“Not having a clear direction stifles growth. Businesses struggle to invest or create jobs when they have no clear understanding of what lies ahead. Now that we have a decision, we can begin to plan for the future.

“One of the biggest fears expressed during the campaign was that we would have no international trade deals in place once we leave the EU. It is essential that Government begins negotiations immediately to establish trade deals which are in the best interests of UK plc.

“There will be many hurdles along the way and we need to know that the Government not only recognises what they are but also has policies in place to ensure they can be overcome.

“Whatever happens during the withdrawal process, it is vital that Government listens to business as the creators of jobs and wealth and takes steps to ensure that investment and growth can continue in the East Midlands and across the UK.

“Now is the time for clear heads, strong leadership and decisive action. Firms want help to get Britain back to business at a time of great uncertainty. The health of the economy must be the number one priority.”

*Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire

Posted in Business

Financial advice sector gets a new start

22nd June 2016

Two leading financial planners have joined forces to launch a new independent financial planning company in Chesterfield.

Start Financial Planning, which is based on Beresford Way, is the brainchild of Michael Heath and Steve Taylor. Both were individually established professionals on Chesterfield’s financial scene before combining their talents under the banner of Start.

Steve Taylor, director of Start Financial Planning, explained: “Michael and I have worked together for a number of years and share the same belief that financial planning should be a journey with no hidden costs and open and honest independent advice.

“On this basis, the decision to formalise our partnership in our new venture seemed like the obvious next step. We want people to begin their financial planning journey with us – hence the company name.”

The business boasts a team of four and is already on the look out for another financial planner and an apprentice too.

Working closely with firms within Chesterfield’s professional services sector, Start is aiming to bring a new approach to the world of financial planning.

Steve added: “We’re bringing a fresh, joined-up approach to financial planning. We passionately believe that it shouldn’t be done in isolation of other professional services, such as legal and accountancy services; rather everyone should work together in the interests of the client. This delivers a better, uncomplicated experience for the client.”

As well as pensions and exit strategies, Start Financial Planning also specialises in tax planning, estate planning, investments, business and personal protection.

Posted in Business