About Chesterfield

Chesterfield estate agent shortlisted for another national award

15th December 2023

The team at Redbrik Estate Agents is celebrating national recognition at the prestigious EA Masters in London.

The North Derbyshire and Sheffield-based firm was once again listed as exceptional in the Best Estate Agent Guide, taking home the Gold award for its sales and lettings service for the seventh year. At the ceremony, its trademarked SecureMove service, designed to minimise fall-throughs and speed up sales for buyers and sellers, also earned the firm a place on the shortlist for the Innovation Award.

Redbrik‘s national commendation has been complemented by a flurry of accolades over the past few months including a regional win. At The Negotiator Awards in London, Redbrik’s letting department received Highly Commended status in the competitive Property Management Department of the Year category.

Closer to home, the team was crowned Property & Construction Company of the Year at the inaugural unLTD Business Awards. Judged by some of the region’s most accomplished business leaders, this award acknowledges the company’s achievements and contributions within the property industry in South Yorkshire.

Mark Ross, Managing Director at Redbrik, said: “We have continuously aimed to set the standard for excellence in the property sector, and our win at the unLTD Business Awards, alongside our recognitions at The Negotiator Awards and EA Masters, are a well-deserved acknowledgement of the team’s ongoing dedication and hard work.

“This year, the implementation of SecureMove™ has been a game-changer, redefining our sales service and elevating the experience for movers by improving the efficiency and security of moving home. It is fantastic to receive recognition for the work we are doing to improve the home moving process and the industry as a whole.

“We can’t wait to build on our success in 2024 and continue to provide the best possible support for those considering a move.”

Redbrik Estate Agents support 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, Home

Chesterfield voted happiest place to live in East Midlands

14th December 2023

Chesterfield has been ranked as the happiest place to live in the East Midlands by Rightmove in its 2023 Happy at Home index.

Each year, the firm asks thousands of people across Great Britain how they feel about where they live. This year’s study was completed by over 26,000 residents.

Contributors said Chesterfield gives them a sense of pride, belonging and community. Access to green space and nature is also important to residents, with those living in a rural area near a national park, or an area of outstanding natural beauty more likely to feel happy where they live.

Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield Manager, said: “It comes as no surprise that Chesterfield has been ranked as the happiest place to live in the East Midlands.

“My wife and I chose to base our family here thirteen years ago because of all the town has to offer. It is an affordable place to live, with green spaces and good schools, close to the Peak District National Park, and its central location allows us to travel to the rest of our family across the country easily. These strengths have only increased as our children have grown up in Chesterfield.”

Richard Sherwood, Director at Roy Peters Estates, commented: “Chesterfield enjoys a warm community feel, historic charm and a range of fantastic local amenities, making it a great choice for people without the added cost of living in a major city.

“The town also boasts fantastic transport links, with the added benefit of having the glorious Peak District National Park on its doorstep. All of these things make it a unique location to build a happy and healthy lifestyle.”

Daniel Elliott, Managing Director at Wilkins Vardy added:

“Chesterfield has always been a popular place to buy property, with a beautiful historic town centre and Chatsworth so close. When compared to the national average, property prices are extremely competitive and we are looking forward to a busy 2024 now that the market and mortgage rates seem to have settled.”

A popular town for families to live in, Chesterfield was also named the happiest place to live in the East Midlands by Rightmove in 2021.

Roy Peters Estates and Wilkins Vardy support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Family walking at Queen's Park, surrounded by wild flowers

Queen’s Park, Chesterfield town centre

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Regional unemployment rate remains among lowest in the UK

13th December 2023

The East Midlands’ unemployment rate has remained at 3.7% for the fifth month running, new figures by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show.

It puts the region near the top of the list for having a low proportion of over-16s out of work and significantly below the UK average of 4.2%.

The data, for the period between August and October 2023, means the region’s unemployment rate has now been under 4% for the past two years, having last been above the threshold in the three months to October 2021.

The economic inactivity rate for 16 to 64-year-olds – which measures the number of working-age people who have dropped out of the labour market for reasons such as retirement, caring duties, long-term ill health or studying – remained at 20.9% for the East Midlands for the third consecutive month, above a pre-pandemic trend around the 19% mark.

East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “The fact our region’s unemployment rate has remained at a relatively low level for such a prolonged period is testament to the efforts and resilience of our region’s business community in the face of significant economic challenges.

“Rising economic inactivity has been one of the greatest concerns over the past couple of years as it led to a dwindling labour market, which has restricted capacity – and therefore the ability to grow, raise productivity and bring prices down.

“While this rate remains above pre-Covid levels, it’s pleasing to see this has now come down by about 2% throughout this year, giving firms more room to manoeuvre.

“However, our own research shows there is no room for complacency. Our Quarterly Economic Survey shows a net 7% of businesses have increased their workforce during the final three months of 2023, compared to a net 15% in the previous quarter – an indication of the tough trading challenges that persist. Over the next three months, a net 17% expect their workforce to expand in size, so prospects may improve.

“Many employers continue to face challenges with filling job vacancies. More than half (55%) of organisations attempted to recruit during Q4, and more than seven in 10 (72%) of these experienced problems in finding suitable staff. There are particular shortages to fill skilled manual and technical roles, as well as professional and managerial positions.”

East Midlands Chamber published its regional economic blueprint, titled A Centre of Trading Excellence: A Business Manifesto for Growth in the East Midlands and Beyond, in November last year, urging Government to focus on the “four Is” of investment, innovation, infrastructure and international trade.

It set out a list of policies to encourage businesses to invest in their people, including introducing flexible incentives for businesses that invest in staff training and bringing forward the introduction of the Lifelong Loan Entitlement to support retraining and the retainment of an older workforce.

Scott added: “We really need a dedicated Government policy that supports companies to invest in their people, whether that be in upskilling their existing workforce or reskilling prospective employees to fill skills gaps.

“We must also tailor policies to recognise the diversity of people who are out of work and avoid a one-size-fits-all solution. We would also like to see Government work with businesses to offer support, and share best practice, on what a flexible and inclusive workplace looks like as this is another vital ingredient in enticing people back to work.”

To read the Chamber’s Business Manifesto for Growth, A Centre of Trading Excellence, visit www.emc-dnl.co.uk/manifesto.

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in business news, chesterfield business news, east midlands business news, east midlands chamber, East midlands employment figures

Chesterfield’s Addooco celebrates 15th anniversary with award win

13th December 2023

A Chesterfield IT company is celebrating, after winning a coveted award at the same time as marking 15 years of continued success.

Addooco began with humble beginnings in a small office at Chesterfield’s Dunston Innovation Centre with predominantly local clients, before a move in 2016 to state-of-the-art offices on Dunston Technology Park.

Now with global reach and a new best-of-breed data centre, featuring the latest in cutting-edge technology, Addooco celebrated its 15^th Anniversary in 2023.

To cap off an excellent year, Addooco were recently named Technology Supplier of the Year at the Taxi Summit & All Industry Awards.

The Addooco team attended a lavish evening held at The Troxy in London, celebrating the achievements of leading industry fleets and suppliers and attended by nearly 500 business leaders.

On receiving their prestigious Award, Richard Walters, Addooco’s Managing Director, commented: “I am super proud to be celebrating 15 years in business and Addooco being named Technology Supplier of the Year is the icing on the cake.”

Richard added: “We have a great team who work tirelessly and around the clock, who understand our clients and the industries they operate in. Being recognised for our efforts, hard work and progress with this Award feels amazing”.

Addooco IT provides a comprehensive range of managed IT, Cloud, Telecommunications & Support services to progressive organisations across the UK.

The company is a proud Chesterfield-based business, owned by local people and with a team who virtually all live in the town, many of whom have graduated through the company’s successful apprentice scheme.

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

Invest in Chesterfield – the perfect location for your business

North Derbyshire is cost-effective, well-connected and full of potential.

Invest in Chesterfield and you will join businesses from world-leading manufacturers to multinational communication companies. Enterprises of every kind already benefit from our positive approach, supportive community, superb travel links and excellent strategic location.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in Addooco IT, chesterfield business news, Chesterfield IT Companies, chesterfield news, Chesterfield Technology Companies, Love Chesterfield

Chesterfield Borough Council agrees new partnership with University of Derby

12th December 2023

Chesterfield Borough Council and the University of Derby have signed a new strategic partnership agreement to establish a closer working relationship and recognise shared ambitions between the two organisations.

The agreement was officially signed by Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, at a ceremony in Chesterfield Town Hall on Monday 11 December.

The strategic partnership agreement sets out three joint ambitions:

To establish Chesterfield as a University town – delivering higher level skills and education for our people and employers.
To work jointly with business partners, education providers and the public sector to deliver world leading research that drives innovation, provide world class facilities to meet the needs of our community and establish a platform to help our entrepreneurs reach their potential.
To use our combined assets, within community partnership across Chesterfield, to raise people’s aspirations through delivering effective core skills, careers information, support and advice.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “I am delighted to have signed this agreement with the University of Derby, on behalf of Chesterfield Borough Council. This agreement sets out our joint ambition to establish Chesterfield as a University town. Strengthening higher level skills and education across the borough will bring with it further opportunities for residents, businesses, and support for wider economic growth.

“Working with our partners across the borough we are also ambitious to establish opportunities for world leading research and world class facilities to drive innovation and bring inspirational opportunities for our communities and entrepreneurs, helping everyone to reach their potential.

“I look forward to working closely with the University of Derby over the coming years to help achieve our ambitions of being a thriving borough and improving the quality of life of local people.”

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “As Derbyshire’s only university we take our role working with communities and organisations very seriously, and this Strategic Partnership Agreement underlines our commitment to driving ambition and positive change.

“I am looking forward to seeing the positive impacts of this partnership as we work together to support skills development and improve outcomes for the people and businesses of Chesterfield and the surrounding area.”

The strategic partnership agreement also sets out a series of high level outcomes to which both organisations are committed over the next three years, focusing on the themes of:

Health and wellbeing, community, skills and resilience
Innovation and research
Experiential learning and curriculum design
Brand profile and awareness
Assets and investment

To achieve these ambitions and outcomes a delivery plan is being developed which focusses on the assets of the University and within Chesterfield borough. It will also identify the resources both organisations can contribute to achieving the ambitions laid out in the partnership agreement.

University of Derby and Chesterfield Borough Council 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, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield borough council, chesterfield business news, Chesterfield Education, chesterfield news, Chesterfield partnerships, Chesterfield Skills, university of derby

Record breaking year for Superior Wellness at UK Pool & Spa Awards

12th December 2023

Superior Wellness is celebrating after receiving multiple awards at this year’s UK Pool & Spa Awards.

Founded in 2010, the UK Pool & Spa Awards is a competition that is open to all companies involved in the delivery of water leisure, regardless of trade association affiliation. The UK Pool & Spa Awards has earned itself a reputation as one of the water leisure industry’s most valuable marketing tools.

Competition categories cover wet leisure manufacturers, pool and spa wholesalers, retailers, leisure operators across residential and commercial swimming pools, hot tub and swim spas, wellness and other accessories.

Chesterfield based Superior Wellness were successful in winning five awards at the prestigious event held on 7 December 2023 in Birmingham.

Superior Wellness scooped the following awards:

Hot Tub and Swim Spa Trade Supplier of the Year
Spa Product of the Year – Chill Tubs
Team of the Year – Superior Wellness
Marketing Initiative of the Year – Chill Tubs featuring on ITV’s This Morning
Energy Efficiency ECO Award – Thermals RX

The first award success of the evening was for Marketing Initiative of the Year for the appearance on ITV’s This Morning with Chill Tubs. Sarah Elphick, Head of Marketing said: “It was a great experience to be featured on This Morning and showcase Chill Tubs. This generated lots of PR coverage from the opportunity which increased brand awareness of Chill Tubs.

Following this Chill Tubs also won the accolade of Spa Product of the Year, which has enjoyed huge success since the launch. Gareth Ward, Sales Director, at Superior Wellness said: “Our Chill Tubs containers are selling before they arrive into the UK and we have more constantly on the way to meet the demand. We have also launched two new models which will be available in 2024. The launch has been a huge success and I am looking forward to its continued success next year.”

The Superior Wellness team were also awarded Team of the Year for their response to Storm Babet in October 2023. The flood video was shared on the evening with the room falling silent whilst they watched in amazement at how the team responded with a clean-up operation starting the next morning to ensure they were operating as usual on the Monday morning.

The pinnacle of the evening was the accolade of Hot Tub and Swim Spa Trade Supplier of the Year. Managing Director, Rob Carlin has been a driving force with his exemplary leadership and innovative vision and has propelled Superior Wellness to become one of the leading hot tub companies in the world. This would not have achieved without the hard work and dedication of the whole team at Superior Wellness.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director said: “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 Standard Award for the following categories:

Energy Efficiency/Eco Award – Mr Silence, Aquark Heat Pumps
Spa Product of the Year – Palma Hot Tub, Platinum Spas
Marketing Initiative of the Year – Location Shoots

And a Silver Standard Award for the following categories:

Spa Product of the Year – Derwent Hot Tub, AquaSolus
Energy Efficiency/Eco Award – Platinum Spas Deluxe range

This was Superior Wellness’ most successful year yet in terms of numbers of awards at the UK Pool and Spa Awards.

Showcasing the very best examples of pool and spa design from across the country, entrants were awarded bronze, silver or gold standard in the competition covering both home and public pool and spa facilities in a contest that attracted thousands of on-line votes and votes from judges, before being scrutinised by an independent jury.

Winners across over 30 categories were announced during the presentation at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham on Thursday 7 December.

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

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, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, Superior wellness, UK Pool and Spa Awards

New brain injury rehabilitation centre to open in North Derbyshire

11th December 2023

A new purpose-built centre has opened in North Derbyshire to support people with recovery from brain injuries.

Located in Clowne, Linnet Mews will be pivotal in providing active, community-based rehabilitation to individuals in the area.

Opened by national provider, Voyage Care, the centre will now undertake some limited accessibility improvements to the home to meet the needs of those with brain injuries before opening in Spring 2024. This includes the addition of a passenger lift and expanding communal spaces to provide more space for socialising and therapy activities.

Spread across two floors, Linnet Mews features both en-suite bedrooms and self-contained apartments on the ground floor, providing a transition pathway as people progress towards greater independence. On the first floor, there’s a dedicated therapy quarter comprising of a consultation room and fully equipped gym, reflecting the vital role of therapy interventions in promoting effective brain injury rehabilitation outcomes.

When asked about the decision to introduce a dedicated therapy area, Operations Director Vicki Bennett said: “Having a therapy quarter in our new development is crucial for promoting tailored rehabilitation pathways. It provides people with brain injuries convenient access to their therapy treatments and fosters a supportive environment for their sessions – which is vital for engagement in rehabilitation. This integration will also promote active rehabilitation, which instils independence and achieves amazing outcomes for people with brain injuries.”

Specialising in slow stream rehabilitation, Linnet Mews supplements Voyage Care’s brain injury services in North Derbyshire that offer longer-term placements for those requiring ongoing or permanent support – enhancing the pathway of specialist, brain injury support in the Midlands.

With a firm focus on developing daily living skills and regaining independence, the slow stream rehabilitation approach enables people to actively participate in their local community. Conveniently located at the heart of the Clowne community, the location of this new home offers the perfect place for people to put their skills into practice.

This new brain injury rehabilitation service will also create several rewarding jobs, further strengthening community ties and demonstrating the sector-leading provider’s commitment to enhancing local opportunities in communities across the UK.

Andrew Pedley, Partner in the Real Estate team at Blacks Solicitors: “The Real Estate team and I have really enjoyed working closely with James Mcdonnell and the team at Voyage Care to secure the purchase of a property in Clowne, near Chesterfield for the purpose of renovating and running a new specialist rehabilitation centre. I’m looking forward to seeing how the new space will support Voyage Care in providing active and community-based support.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in Brain injury rehabilitation Chesterfield, Chesterfield Healthcare, chesterfield news, Linnet Mews, Linnet Mews Chesterfield, Love Chesterfield

Boots Opticians store in Chesterfield receives exciting new makeover

11th December 2023

Boots Opticians has unveiled an exciting new look for its Chesterfield store, after undergoing a contemporary refurbishment to update and modernise the facility.

This latest revamp is part of a wider investment programme in Boots Opticians stores across the country to improve and refresh the store environment for both customers and team members.

Chesterfield customers that wish to check their eye health with an eye test, find a new pair of glasses or sunglasses or try contact lenses, can now enjoy an enhanced in store experience. With new upgraded technology and a revamped open plan and modern design, it is easier than ever for customers to browse and try the many frame styles and shapes on offer, including designer brands such as Mulberry, Versace, and Ray-Ban, as well as sustainable ranges and stylish own brand frames.

As well as NHS and private eye tests, contact lens aftercare and free contact lens fitting and trials, Boots Opticians Chesterfield offers Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) eye scans. These are cutting edge, non-invasive scans that allow the Optician to see what’s going on under the surface of the eye. It takes a couple of minutes and can help to detect underlying conditions, such as glaucoma, before any symptoms occur.

The new look store also has a dedicated and revamped Boots Hearingcare facility, with an expert team of audiologists who can offer free hearing checks and provide advanced solutions for hearing loss.

Amber Hurst, Store Manager at Boots Opticians Chesterfield said: “We are delighted to show off our new refreshed store and can’t wait to welcome the people of Chesterfield, whether they are coming in for an eye test for the first time, upgrading their frames or having a contact lens check. We hope they will love it as much as we do!”

Enjoy a unique shopping experience in Chesterfield and browse a range of independent and nationally recognised retailers. Find out more about visiting Chesterfield.

Do you own a retail business and are looking to expand or relocate? Look no further than Chesterfield. Find out more about our town’s ideal location here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Boots, Boots Chesterfield, Boots opticians, chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Chesterfield Opticians, Love Chesterfield, shopping in chesterfield

10 family-friendly events in Chesterfield

8th December 2023

Looking for family-friendly events in Chesterfield and the Peak District? There are already plenty of fun events to add to your 2024 calendar.

Fill up the whole family with delicious food and drink. Listen to live music and dance along. Plan a day out at our beautiful parks alongside popular entertainment or sports. Or take on a challenge.

How will you make memories with little ones, big ones and even your furry friends? Read on for just 10 of the family-friendly events to look out for in 2024.

1. Indulge in delicious food and drink at Chesterfield Peddler Market

Imagine relaxing with the kids at Market Square on a beautiful spring day this March. Everyone enjoying woodfired pizzas and burgers and luxury brownies and ice-cream, washed down with a craft beer for you. Our most searched-for event since its launch only last year, the Chesterfield Peddler Market had to make our list of family-friendly events.

If you didn’t know, Peddler Events operates an extremely successful street food market from its base in Kelham Island in Sheffield. Over the last nine years, it has become known for delivering award-winning cuisine, craft drinks, live music, bespoke products, art, and excellent entertainment.

Make sure to attend this event in March and look out for more dates being announced later in 2024.

Looking for other markets to explore? You will find speciality markets to suit all interests.

2. Take on a challenge or cheer on the runners at the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K

Families can participate in the family-friendly 1k Fun Run set within the grounds of Queen’s Park. Perfect for all family members, even the dog! Even if running isn’t for you, go along to enjoy the entertainment and atmosphere while cheering on participants at dedicated cheering stations.

Up for a challenge? Why not train for the full 10k? The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K is centred in Chesterfield town centre, taking in major landmarks such as the famous Crooked Spire. Make sure to book your place ahead of race day.

3. Explore the beautiful market town of Chesterfield by foot

Did you know Chesterfield has a dedicated Walking Festival? Enjoy family time in the fresh air whilst taking in the local history, wildlife and countryside.

The littles ones can join you for a steady stroll through our award-winning parkland. For the more adventurous family members and bigger kids, you could take on the impressive 34-mile round walk.

Keep an eye out for walk announcements. Mark your calendars as bookings open in March 2024!

4. Cheer on your favourite celebrities at the SMH Group Stadium

This is one not to be missed. A host of TV personalities will play in a soccer match in May to raise funds for Chesterfield FC Community Trust.

The line-up includes Dan Osbourne, Jake Wood, Callum Best, Cal the Dragon, Tom Zanetti and more. Make sure to book your tickets before they run out.

5. Create memories at the Rail Ale Festival

Enjoy a family day out with dogs and children welcome until 5pm each day. Alternatively, you could get a babysitter and enjoy the live music in the evening.

Hosted at the last surviving railway roundhouse in the United Kingdom, the Rail Ale Festival is a firm favourite in Chesterfield’s event calendar. Despite the name, everyone is welcome at the Festival – not just real ale drinkers. The wide range of drinks available, entertainment, trains, and street food appeal to all ages.

Each year a Rail Ale Party Night celebration takes place to open the Festival. Keen to know who it could be? Keep your eyes peeled for announcements.

6. Sparkle and raise funds for Ashgate Hospice

The best part about participating in the Sparkle Night Walk is the atmosphere. As you light up the streets of Chesterfield with your bunny years, you can enjoy entertainment and make memories with colleagues, friends, and family. Children aged 12 years and over can get involved with the fun!

Sparkle Night Walk is an award-winning fundraising event and North Derbyshire’s most exciting night of the year. Get ready to sparkle this June whilst helping to raise funds for your local hospice.

7. Enjoy cricket in the picturesque Queen’s Park

Why not take a picnic and enjoy the cricket action as a family? The BRM Chesterfield Festival of Cricket features two matches against Yorkshire, beginning with the 4-day County Championship match, and concluding with the fast-paced Vitality Blast T20 match.

New for 2024, you can purchase a Festival Pass – giving you access to all five days of cricket for just £49.

8. Be entertained at Chesterfield Pride

The award-winning Chesterfield Pride is back for families to enjoy an action-packed day of fun. Look forward to exciting entertainment, market stalls, fabulous food vendors, a kids zone and more.

Stand Road Park was brought to life in 2023 with a rainbow of artists such as Tinchy Strder, A1 and Baga Chipz. Who will make an appearance in 2024?

Keep up to date with the latest act announcements on Facebook.

9. Experience the Peak District Highland Games

Looking for a unique day out with the family? The Peak District Highland Games returns for 2024.

See some of the country’s leading strongmen and mighty strongwomen compete in a series of games including The Eight Tonne Tractor Pull, The Peak District Dinnie Stone Challenge, The Tossing of the Caber, The GIANT Stone Throw, The 120kg Log Press and The Stone of Destiny Carry!

As the event takes place at Matlock Farm Park, you can experience even more fun on the day. There will be a market, craft and games stalls, pony rides, animal handling and more.

10. Make memories at Chatsworth’s Country Fair

Another family-friendly event local to Chesterfield is the Chatsworth Country Fair, attracting thousands of visitors from across the country.

All in one day, you can have a go at clay pigeon shooting, watch horse driving and even enter your furry friend in a race or competition. The entertainment doesn’t stop there, watch cooking masterclasses delivered by the nation’s favourite chefs, be entertained by the Grand Ring, enjoy delicious food, and explore hundreds of trade stands.

Make sure to explore what else Chatsworth Country Fair has to offer.

Spread the word

From a mega line-up of family-friendly events, local attractions, and a wide choice of independent shops and restaurants, Chesterfield has everything you need for the perfect family day out.

With new events being added to our website each week, keep an eye out for more via our dedicated what’s on guide.

We love sharing our ideas for things to do in Chesterfield. Could you help share what our town has to offer? Tag us in your photos and videos, tag in Destination Chesterfield and use #LoveChesterfield to help spread the word events in Chesterfield!

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Visiting

Derbyshire residents set to vote for the first ever East Midlands mayor as devolution gets the green light

8th December 2023

Residents across Derbyshire will get the chance to vote for the first-ever East Midlands Mayor next May, after councils gave the go-ahead to devolution for the region.

Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council have each approved plans to create the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), which will come into existence next Spring.

EMCCA is set to bring in around £4 billion of funding for the region, alongside devolved powers for transport, skills and adult education, housing, the environment and economic development.

Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “Our shared vision is for the 2.2 million people who live and work in the heart of the country to be better connected and more prosperous – addressing years of historically low investment in our region.

“Devolution brings much more control over our own area. Rather than many major decisions being made for us in London, local people would have a say in the region’s priorities. This is just the start and more benefits and funding are already starting to flow – such as the Government’s recent announcement of £1.5 billion local transport funding for the new East Midlands Mayor.

“The creation of a new mayoral combined county authority will unlock the benefits of the East Midlands devolution deal and bring improved public services and a brighter future for our residents.”

Plans for East Midlands devolution are similar to those already in place in other mayoral regions, like the West Midlands and Greater Manchester.

The East Midlands devolution deal, agreed with Government ministers last summer, would see Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Nottingham benefit from a £1.14 billion investment fund. Other areas with devolution deals have been able to make their funding go even further and have greater impact by leveraging significant private sector investment.

A public consultation on East Midlands devolution, carried out between November 2022 and January 2023, showed strong support for the plans among local residents, businesses and community groups.

In October, the Government announced around £1.5 billion in transport funding for the East Midlands Mayor.

Thanks to devolution plans, the East Midlands has also been invited to establish an ‘Investment Zone’, which will attract £160 million of support over ten years, with tax incentives for businesses that will help boost economic growth right across the region.

It is estimated that the East Midlands Investment Zone will unlock hundreds of millions of pounds in private investment, creating thousands of jobs right across the region.

Government will continue to work with the proposed East Midlands Mayoral County Combined Authority (EMCCA) and other partners to co-develop the plans for the East Midlands Investment Zone, including priority development sites and specific interventions to drive cluster growth, ahead of final confirmation of the plans.

£18 million has already been awarded to the area during devolution negotiations, which is being spent on improving local housing, transport and skills provision.

Further investment for the region would also be provided through annual Whitehall budgets and spending reviews.

All four councils have now agreed to the creation of East Midlands Combined County Authority and the legal regulations around creating this new authority.

The Government will now need take the deal before Parliament, as this is first of a new type of combined authority and it requires new legislation.

If the legislation is passed in the coming weeks it would come into force by March 2024, meaning the EMCCA will officially come into existence.

The inaugural election for East Midlands Mayor will take place on 2 May 2024.

Image courtesy of Derbyshire Economic Partnership

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, derbyshire business news, Derbyshire news, Devolution, East Midlands Devolution, east midlands news

Chesterfield Champions support the community with sponsorship, fundraising and events

7th December 2023

Chesterfield Champions continue to support Chesterfield’s community, with various initiatives.

Our latest roundup features charitable donations, voluntary efforts, sponsorship of local events and even some festive cheer.

Find out more in our latest roundup below:

Champions sponsor upcoming Champions Against Loneliness Awards

Two Chesterfield Champions, Magnavale and Hopkinson Waste Management have confirmed to sponsor two categories at the upcoming Brightlife Champions Against Loneliness Awards.

Scheduled to take place at the SMH Group Stadium on Saturday March 16th, 2024, the event will bring together local businesses, charities, volunteers and members of the public, at an awards evening designed to celebrate those members of society who have gone above and beyond in their actions to ensure that loneliness and isolation doesn’t occur amongst older people living within our communities.

Jules Gaylor, Managing Director of Hopkinson Waste Management Ltd commented, “The elderly in our community can be vulnerable and easily forgotten. They are also often the last to complain. BrightLife’s work is outstanding, we’re delighted to help out and spread their message too, which is a brilliant one.”

Amanda Cogan, COO, Magnavale commented: “We are excited to announce our latest partnership with BrightLife, as part of our ongoing commitment to giving back to the community, we are honoured to continue our sponsorship with BrightLife and the exceptional fight against loneliness within the community, in which they continue to deliver.”

Healthy Living project supports Staveley pupils

A new project aims to provide Staveley school students with the skills to cook healthy meals at home.

Delivered in partnership by Community Growth, Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, Springwell Community College and Netherthorpe School, the Staveley To Eat Well (STEW) project had its first session on Wednesday 8 November.

Students from Springwell Community College travelled to Chesterfield College where level 3 students in the Hospitality and Catering School taught them how to cook Butternut squash soup with sage and croutons.

Natalie Pearce, Co-Director at Community Growth, said: “It’s such a wonderful opportunity for students to have exposure to fully trained chefs and a professional kitchen. Inspiring and eye opening. The College staff are exceptionally welcoming. I’m honoured to be part of this innovative project.”

The concept initially arose through the Staveley Town Deal Board where members discussed how to tackle health inequalities in the town. The project has since been incorporated into Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Action Plan.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board said: “This is a fantastic project for young people in Staveley, it will help them develop important skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives. This is also a great example of how partnerships formed through the Town Deal can help create more opportunities and help improve the quality of life for local people.”

Catering students at Chesterfield College will be working with their tutors to develop a meal to cook for each session and will lead these sessions for 15 students each time.

Julie Richards Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Chesterfield College said: “It’s so exciting to see the project finally come to fruition after initial ideas at the Town Deal Board meeting. I’m delighted to welcome students to Chesterfield College and hope it’s the start of a much bigger initiative for the town and local residents.”

Ian Wingfield, Headteacher of Springwell Community College and Town Deal Board member, said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to get this project going, it will give our students a fantastic experience and help ensure they can develop some really useful skills that will benefit them for a long time to come.”

Further sessions are planned in 2024, in total around 72 students from both Springwell Community College and Netherthorpe School will take part in the project.

Funding for the project was secured through the Staveley Health and Wellbeing Group.

Chesterfield solicitor lights up Bolsover Castle with ‘Fame, Fashion, and Fortune’ exhibition

Legal eagle-by-day, Lacey Bates-Blinkho, has been helping bring a taste of Christmas past to Bolsover Castle.

She has become a key figure in the Fame, Fashion and Fortune project which is now on display until the end of January 2024.

The touring exhibition – which is set to visit various stately homes and museums in the region in the coming months – is sponsored by Lacey’s firm, Graysons Solicitors.

Various members of staff have been part of a team of volunteers working tirelessly to re-create the costumes worn by the influential women connected with Bolsover, stretching right back to Bess of Hardwick.

Fame, Fashion, and Fortune has attracted nearly £50,000 in National Lottery Funding and is being coordinated by Bolsover Parish Church.

Caroline Murray, partner at Graysons, added: “We’re a firm that has a long and proud history of championing the careers of women. To be involved in ‘Fame, Fashion, and Fortune’ is a great privilege, and we’re proud to have the opportunity to help tell the inspiring stories of these great women who helped shape our region. Special thanks have to go to Lacey Bates-Blinkho – she has truly gone above and beyond the call of duty once again!”

Graysons Solicitors specialise in property, family law, lifetime planning, private wealth, wills, estates and trusts, elderly client services, personal injury, occupational illness and clinical negligence.

The law firm first formed in 1925 and currently employs around 65 staff.

CSLAS recieves donation from DCJ Group Insurance & Risk Management

A four-figure donation to Chesterfield charity, CSALS has been made by DCJ Group Insurance & Risk Management to help boost fundraising efforts.

CSALS provide free online first aid training with over 11,000 people having completed the Prepared to Save a Life course, which is offered in partnership with Virtual College. Practical sessions are also delivered in schools and at companies that support the organisation’s 999 Appeal.

DCJ Group specialises in commercial and personal lines insurance with four offices across the Chesterfield, Lincoln and Nottinghamshire area, putting them in a great position to support clients across the UK.

With a turnover in excess of £30 million, DCJ Group also comes under the umbrella of global insurance giant Brown & Brown – one of the world’s largest insurance broking businesses, supporting DCJ Group and others by providing access to strong insurance partnerships, enhanced insurance products, risk management resources, and the expertise of over 14,000 insurance professionals worldwide.

Debra Johnson, CSALS’ community facilitator, added: “We rely heavily on assistance from the local business community and I would like to thank Chris and DCJ Group Insurance & Risk Management for their generous donation, which is very much appreciated.”

Business invited to College Santa Dash event

Chesterfield College’s Santa Dash is set to return this Christmas, in support of Bluebell Wood Childrens Hospice

The event takes place on 15th December, and all students, staff and local businesses are welcome.

The Santa Dash will be taking place at Queens Park at 9:30 am to start the warm-up at 9:45 am.

The event itself is three laps of the park which can be run, jogged or walked dressed in festive attire (Christmas jumpers, Santa costumes, etc. or wearing purple to show support for Bluebell Wood) to raise as much money as possible for the charity whilst being together and having a fun-filled morning at the same time.

Sports students will lead the warm-up from the college while the college’s Public Services students will marshal the route. There will be prizes for:

1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishers
Most money raised
Best dressed individual
Best dressed team

The College is asking local businesses to help in any way they can, be it by entering a team for the event and raising sponsorship money or donating prizes. Details following the event will be published on the Chesterfield College website and social media platforms including any details/social media tags of all businesses involved.

Business which would like to donate a prize or enter a team for the event, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Jake Wilshaw by email: wilshawj@chesterfield.ac.uk.

BHP Supports the Elm Foundation with charity advent calendars

The BHP Chartered Accountants team in Chesterfield have been collecting advent calendars for children currently living in a domestic abuse refuge house based in the town.

The refuge is run by The Elm Foundation, which runs four such safe houses for men, women and children.

A total of 38 advent calendars have now been donated to the children in the refuge.

Vicar Lane Opens Food Bank this Festive Season

To support Chesterfield Foodbank, Vicar Lane is taking part in the ‘Let’s Can Hunger’ campaign once again, to support those most in need within the community this Christmas.

From Monday 4th December until Thursday 21st December, visitors can contribute by donating to either of the food banks in Iceland or the Vicar Lane Centre Management Suite.

Items that can be donated are tinned goods and other non-perishable goods such as pasta, cereals and toiletries. To see the full list please visit https://www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk/whats_on/lets-can-hunger-2023/.

For more information speak to a member of management at Vicar Lane, email enquiries@vicarlane.com or call 01246 234630.

Brandon Howard, Centre Administrator, Vicar Lane said, “We are always blown away by the generosity of our local community, so we anticipate this to be a successful collection to support the work that Chesterfield Foodbank do. We know that times are tough for everyone this season and so we are happy to do our part in helping out and welcome any donation however small”.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital launches charity appeal

Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is appealing to businesses, organisations and communities to help give the ‘gift of extraordinary’ this Christmas through the Chesterfield Royal Charity.

Dr Hal Spencer, Chief Executive, explained: “Our Christmas wish this year is to show our patients and colleagues that they truly matter through a small act of kindness. Our goal is to always provide exceptional care and look after the health and wellbeing of our people. One of the ways we’d like to do this is by offering small gifts, paid for by the Chesterfield Royal Charity.

“We already have plenty of kind donations and from community organisations bringing gifts in – such as motorcycle clubs bringing appropriate gifts children but this year, we’re wanting to make it even more exceptional and we’re launching a last-minute appeal for kind gestures from local businesses and organisations.

“We know it’s a difficult time for many people and it’s important to not go above your means, so please do only donate if you’re able. As they say; every little helps!”

The appeal ‘Webster is Quackers for Crackers’ is running from now until 4 January. Find out more here.

Hopkinson Waste Management, Magnavale, Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, BHP Chartered Accountants, Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, CSALS, DCJ Group Insurance & Risk Management and Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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