About Chesterfield

Qoozies collaborate with Italian Chef to launch Sunday brunch offer

Qoozies have announced they will be opening on Sundays with a brand-new Sunday brunch experience at Vicar Lane.

Between 10 am-3 pm every Sunday, they will be serving a new Sunday Brunch Menu by Vito Scaravilli (the Italian chef behind Scaravilli Pasta Lab at the Batchhouse).

All dishes have been specially curated using the finest ingredients, including the Benedict (8 hour slow cooked beef shin, poached egg, hollandaise sauce and crispy shallots on a toasted English muffin), Pancake di Mama (American pancakes topped with eggs, crispy bacon, blueberries and maple syrup) and the Veganist (chickpea and beetroot hummus, avocado and black sesame seeds on toasted sourdough), to name but a few.

Over the festive period, they will be offering 10% off their Elfy-ccino hot chocolate for families that visit Santa’s grotto at Vicar Lane.

They have also launched seven new hot chocolates to be enjoyed over the festive period.

Shaun Brown, Centre Manager at Vicar Lane says: ‘’Qoozies have long been popular amongst visitors to Vicar Lane, and we are so excited that they will now be opening every Sunday with an amazing new menu”.

There is a great range of independent food businesses across the borough of Chesterfield check out our guide of 50 you should try.

Don’t miss all the great things happening in Chesterfield on the run-up to Christmas and our gift and food guides from Chesterfield retailers.  Discover more at Christmas in Chesterfield

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

Qoozies Brunch Menu

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Christmas, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Visiting

Hospital celebrates National Tree Week

To celebrate National Tree Week – which runs from 27 November to 3 December – Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is planting 230 trees across the hospital site.

The trees, which are from more than 20 varieties, are the result of a successful application to NHS Forest – an initiative which started in 2009 and has since seen more than 100,000 trees planted on or near to NHS property.

Thirty of the new saplings will be planted close to the Trust’s £2m Health and Wellbeing Hub – which opened in the summer and offers colleagues access to the latest gym and counselling break-out facilities, thanks to the Chesterfield Royal Charity’s fundraising appeal.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Chesterfield and senior officials will be joined by 15 members of staff who were nominated by their colleagues – some due to their commitment to the environment, some who have gone the extra mile and were nominated to mark their hard work and dedication.

Dr Hal Spencer, Chief Executive of the Trust, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to receive the 230 trees from NHS Forest. It’s great news for the Trust and our surrounding community as we recognise the importance of a cleaner and greener environment – linking directly to our Green Strategy.

“I think it’s incredibly symbolic that we have 30 colleagues and guests standing shoulder-to-shoulder to plant the final 30 trees, marking this occasion – especially since it is the 75th birthday year of the NHS. It’s a great legacy for us all to have.”

The initial 200 trees are also being planted during National Tree Week. It’s expected to only take four hours for these saplings to be planted.

Dr Jon Cort, Chief Digital Officer, added: “We already have a huge commitment to our green spaces and trees across the Trust site. I personally believe this makes a great difference in improving the hospital environment. These 230 trees, of such variety, will stand the test of time and hopefully add to people’s health and wellbeing.”

royal hospital aerial shot

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

Enjoy a festive feast this Christmas in Chesterfield

MPW Christmas 2 DoubleTree

Are you ready for mouth-watering food and drink this Christmas in Chesterfield?

With the countdown to Christmas usually comes more regular trips to the pub or meals out at restaurants. Whether you can’t get enough of traditional tastes of Christmas like roast turkey, orange and cinnamon, or are looking to try something new, you will find plenty of options in Chesterfield. But be quick – they tend to get booked up faster than Santa can say, “Ho-ho-ho”!

Don’t forget to find out more about the great gifts, food and drink, and activities on offer across Chesterfield this festive season. Find everything you need for the perfect Christmas, here.

Experience culinary creations at Taste Restaurant and Conservatory at Chesterfield College

Meal being plated up under food heater

Chefs at Taste Restaurant at Chesterfield College have been busy putting together their special Christmas menus. Their three course lunch is high quality and good value – you won’t believe they are training!

Starters

Celeriac Soup, Truffled Croutons, Herbs

Game Terrine, Chutney, Toasted Sourdough

Kidney Bean & Red Pepper Gnocchi, Sweet Potato Puree, Marinated Radicchio

Mains

All served with Roast Potatoes, Roast Parsnips, Buttered Sprouts, Spiced Glazed Carrots

Traditional Roast Turkey, Chipolata Sausage, Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce

Roasted Fillet of Salmon, Sweet Pepper, Red Onion & Caper Crust

Grilled Seitan Steak, Mushroom & Tarragon Sauce (VE)

Desserts

Christmas Pudding, Brandy Sauce, Brandy Butter

Chocolate Tart, Spiced Apricot & Orange Compote

Burnt Lemon & Blueberry Cream

Discover a symphony of flavours at Double Tree by Hilton

Christmas dinner being carried on a tray

At Double Tree by Hilton you can dance the night away after a delicious two or three course meal. Specific dates are available, so don’t forget to check the calendar!

Friday/Saturday Starters

Hearty Root Vegetable Soup, Warm Bread & Butter (VE)

Beetroot Carpaccio, Trio of Coloured Beets, Rocket, Candied Walnuts, Goats Cheese, Truffle Oil (V & GF)

Ham Hock Terrine, Local Ham Hock, Sun Dried Tomatoes, House Chutney, Pickled Carrots, Thyme Crisp, Pea Shoots (GF)

Thursday/Friday/Saturday/Sunday Mains

Roast Turkey Breast, Pig in Blanket, Sage & Onion Stuffing, Roast Potatoes, Roasted Roots, Green Beans, Roast Pan Jus (GF)

Pan Fried Salmon Fillet, Garden Peas, Green Beans, Chorizo, Crushed Herb Potatoes, Parsley, Beurre Blanc, Pea Shoots (GF)

Butternut Squash Risotto, Butternut Squash Puree, Oven Roasted Butternut Squash, Parmesan Shards, Crispy Kale (V/ VE)

Thursday/Friday/Saturday/Sunday Desserts

Christmas Pudding, Rum Sauce (GF)

Glazed Lemon Tart, Burnt Meringue, Blackberries

Christmas Eton Mess, Meringue Shards, Sweet Whipped Cream, Fruit Gel, Mince Pie, Mixed Berries, Chocolate Flakes

Fancy something more low-key? Find out about festive afternoon teas at Double Tree by Hilton, and evening meals at Marco Pierre, as well as their Christmas Day and Year’s Eve meal.

Indulge in Casa Hotel’s mouth-watering meals

Casa Hotel 873x466

If you want to bring in the festive season in style, look no further than Casa Hotel. Their sophisticated midweek festive lunch will satisfy your cravings with the option to have two or three courses.

Starters

Field Mushroom & Truffle Soup, Truffle Oil, Ciabatta Croutons (VG/GF)

Chicken, Port & Tarragon Terrine, Parma Ham, Smoked Tomato Chutney, Garlic Crostini

Classic Prawn Cocktail, Marie Rose Sauce, Cucumber Ribbons, Cherry Vine Tomatoes, Buttered Granary Bread

Goat’s Cheese & Beetroot Tart, Toasted Pumpkin Seeds, Watercress Salad, Yuzu Dressing (V)

Mains

Hand-Carved Derbyshire Reared Turkey Breast, Chestnut & Cranberry Stuffing, Pancetta Wrapped Chipolatas, Good Fat Roast Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables, Traditional Gravy

Walton Lodge Braised Beef Cheek, Horseradish & Chive Mashed Potato, Glazed Shallot, Buttered Savoy Cabbage, Red Wine Jus (GF)

Pan Roasted Fillet of Cod, Tarragon & Lemon Crushed New Potatoes, Wilted Buttered Greens, Crayfish & Parsley Beurre Blanc Sauce (GF)

Butternut Squash & Feta Wellington, Creamed Potato, Roasted Root Vegetables, Seasonal Greens, White Wine & Parsley Sauce (V)

Desserts

Traditional Christmas Pudding, Cranberry Compote, Dried Fruit & Brandy Sauce (V/GF)

Mulled Wine & Cinnamon Trifle, Cherry Jelly, Crème Anglaise, Berry Sponge, Freeze Dried Cherries

Passion Fruit & Yuzu Tart, Chantilly Crème, Mango Puree, Tuille (V)

Selection of Artisan Cheeses, Biscuits, Fresh Fruit, Homemade Chutney (V)

Casa Hotel will also be hosting Midweek and Christmas Party Nights in the Barcelona and Valencia Suites, which come with their own set menus.

Don’t fancy cooking on Christmas or Boxing Day? Find out more about celebratory meals in Cocina Restaurant or the Barcelona Suite.

For cosy meets charming, try Peak Edge Hotel

Christmas at Peak Edge

Perched on the edge of the Peak District National Park, Peak Edge Hotel is the perfect location for a picturesque festive lunch. Featuring the finest quality local ingredients, bookings are available for up to 10 guests.

Starters

Seasonal Soup of the Day, Warmed Sourdough (VG)

Prawn & Crayfish Cocktail, Marie Rose Sauce, Brown Bread

Chicken Liver Parfait, Red Onion Chutney, Toasted Brioche

Whipped Goat’s Cheese, Chicory, Pear Gel, Candied Walnuts (V/GF)

Cured Loch Duart Salmon, Dill Emulsion, Pickled Cucumber (GF)

Warmed Smoked Cheddar & Leek Tart, Tomato Chutney, Dressed Watercress (V)

Mains

Norfolk Bronze Turkey, Sage & Apricot Stuffing, Pigs in Blankets, Roast Potatoes, Chantenay Carrots, Maple Glazed Parsnips

Slow Cooked Blade of Walton Lodge Beef, Horseradish Mash, Crispy Pancetta, Baby Onions, Chestnut Mushrooms (GF)

Herb Crusted Cod Fillet, Caper & Dill Crushed Potatoes, Tenderstem Broccoli, Herb Cream Sauce (GF)

Butternut Squash & Sage Risotto, Toasted Pine Nuts, Watercress (VG/GF)

Goat’s Cheese & Beetroot Wellington, Herb Crushed Potatoes, Buttered Greens (V)

Market Fish of the Day

Desserts

Classic Christmas Pudding, Brandy Sauce

Bitter Chocolate & Malt Tart, Pistachios, Vanilla Ice Cream

Star Anise Poached Pears, Hazelnut Crumble, Pear Sorbet (BG/GF)

Yoghurt Panna Cotta, Mulled Fruits, Biscotti

Daltons Ice Cream Selection

Selection of Derbyshire Cheese, Apple & Sage Chutney, Crackers

Are you a big group who fancy a boogie? Why not check out the Christmas party nights, with a three course meal before a private function in either the Oak Room or Walton Suite.

Peak Edge will also be hosting Christmas and Boxing Day, as well as classic Sunday lunches every week in December.

Festive flavours with a twist at The Tickled TroutChristmas pizza with brussel sprouts and pigs in blankets

Tuck in at The Tickled Trout with their delicious festive party menu. Designed to cater for groups of eight and above, this seasonal delight is available throughout December, excluding Sundays. The meal can be served in both the private room and restaurant or lounge.

Starters

Baked Celeriac Gratin, Yorkshire Curly Kale (V)

Smoked Mackerel Pate, Torched Mackerel, Pickles (GFO)

Seasonal Velouté, Wye Bakehouse Bread (V Option) (GFO)

‘Bacon & Egg’ – Pork Belly, Quails Egg, Ketchup

Wicked Garlic Doughballs (V) (VE Option)

Mains

Slow Roasted Highfield House Beef, Roasted Beef Dripping, Carrot, Creamy Mashed Potato (GFO)

Hall Farm Barlow Herbed Turkey Breast, Date & Chestnut Stuffing, Garlic Roasted (GFO)

Looe Day Boat Hake, Fondant Potato, Crispy Pancetta, Chive Beurre Blanc (GFO)

Roasted Vegetable Lasagne, Tunworth Cheese Foam (V) (VE Option)

TT Christmas Pizza, Marinated Turkey, Pigs in Blankets, Parsnip, Cranberry, Sprouts (GFO)

Desserts

Passionfruit & White Chocolate Parfait, Lemongrass Ice Cream

Tickled Trout’s Famous Fruit Clootie, Gingerbread Ice Cream

‘Creme Caramel’ Vanilla Viennese

British Isles Artisan Cheese & Biscuits (£5 Supplement) (GFO)

Are you a group of less than eight? The Tickled Trout’s famous ‘festive pizza’ will be available for smaller groups who still want to get their taste buds tingling with festive flavours.

Taste a festive fusion at Tyzack’s Bar & Bistro – Stanedge Golf Club

Christmas tree next to a bar which says 'Tyzack's Bar and Bistro'

Whether you are a golfer or not, Stanedge Golf Club‘s Tyzack’s Bar and Bistro welcomes you for its Christmas Lunch set menu. With the option to select two or three courses, the menu will be available for dates throughout December.

Starters

Soup of the Day and Crusty Bread (V/VG)

Prawn Cocktail, Iceberg Lettuce, Marie Rose Sauce, Wholemeal Bread, Lemon Wedge

Duck and Orange Parfait, Sourdough Bread, Rocket, Festive Chutney (GF)

Mains

Hand-Carved Free-Range Derbyshire Turkey Breast, Roasted Potatoes, Creamy Mash, Seasonal Veg, ‘Pigs’ in Blankets, Sage, Onion & Sausage Stuffing, Pan Gravy (GF)

Oven Roasted Salmon Fillet, Roasted Potatoes, Creamy Mash, Seasonal Veg, Lemon Butter Cream Sauce (GF)

‘Chickmas Burger’, Sage & Onion Stuffing, Crispy Streaky Bacon, Cranberry Sauce, Brioche Bun, Goose Fat Roast Potatoes, Pigs in Blankets

‘Bauble & Squeak Burger’, Sage & Onion Stuffing, Melted Cheese, Cranberry Sauce, Toasted Bagel, Roasted Potatoes, Homemade Slaw (V/VG)

Desserts

Traditional Christmas Pudding, Brandy Sauce (V/VG)

Christmas Cheesecake of the Day (V)

Cheeseboard & Biscuits (£4 supplement)

Looking to continue the fun?

Band at Real Time Live

After your feast, continue the celebrations in Chesterfield with music, theatre and fun events.

Keep things relaxed by admiring the Christmas lights and decorations in Chesterfield town centre, at Revolution House or at Chatsworth House and Gardens.

Have a laugh and head to SMH Group Stadium for their Entertainment & Comedy Drag Night, or to the Winding Wheel Theatre for this year’s .

If a festive sing-song is your thing, there are plenty of carol concerts taking place in the town. More of a party animal? Why not check out a gig or the Christmas 80s Disco Party at Real Time Live?

Spread the word

We love sharing our ideas for Christmas dining in Chesterfield. What would be even better though? Seeing photos and videos of you enjoying yourselves! Please remember to tag in Destination Chesterfield or use #LoveChesterfield to help spread the word about Christmas in Chesterfield!

More things to do this Christmas in Chesterfield.

Winding wheel audience

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Top class cricket to return to Chesterfield in 2024

The BRM Solicitors Chesterfield Festival of Cricket, in association with Chesterfield Borough Council, will return to Queen’s Park in June and July next year.

Derbyshire is set to do battle with local rivals Yorkshire.

The festival consists of two matches against Yorkshire, beginning on Sunday, 30 June 2024, with the 4-day County Championship match, and concluding with the fast-paced Vitality Blast T20 match on Sunday 7 July.

You can now enjoy the full week of cricket, at the picturesque Queen’s Park with a new Festival Pass.  This gives access to all five days of cricket for just £49.  You can book your tickets at https://cricket.derbyshireccc.com/chesterfield-festival-of-cricket/

There is a great summer of events in Chesterfield after it has been confirmed that both Eat in the Park and Chesterfield Pride will also return in 2024.

Jimmy Drew, Commerical Manager of Derbyshire County Cricket Club commented: “Chesterfield has a really good opportunity to capitalise on the great things that are taking place in the town and the surrounding area as well”.

Looking for details of events, and festivals happening in Chesterfield check out www.chestrfield.co.uk/events or sign up for our weekly email update here.

Derbyshire County Cricket Club and BRM Solicitors support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Rainbow at Chesterfield Festival of Cricket

Posted in About Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Visiting

Taste Restaurant at Chesterfield College undergoes dramatic refurbishment

Chesterfield College’s Taste Restaurant has undergone a dramatic transformation after its extensive refurbishment this Autumn. The renovation includes new flooring throughout, an updated bar, cocktail station and Art Deco design features.

Taste Restaurant is operated by college students under the watchful eye of their tutors, all of which hold a wealth of industry experience. It’s a fully licensed restaurant offering themed, as well as à la Carte menus.

Running these facilities gives learners experience of working in a commercial environment, delivering high quality food and service to paying customers, to gain the knowledge required for a successful career in the catering and hospitality industry.

A hidden gem in Chesterfield, Taste is open, during term time, not just to college students and staff but also to the public. Businesses are also encouraged to hold meetings and lunches in the restaurant and a pop-up workspace offer also includes unlimited hot drinks and Wi-Fi for those looking for a comfortable and relaxing space to work from or take meetings.

Bookings are recommended. For all bookings and enquires please email taste@chesterfield.ac.uk or call 01246 500500 ext. 1964. Alternatively, message their Facebook page.

Caleb Wilkes, Vocational Lead of Hospitality and Catering at Chesterfield College, explains: “We are a learner-led restaurant offering our students valuable hands-on experience to help them succeed. Our learners prepare and cook all the food, prepare and serve all the drinks and plan our events.

We have just finished refurbishment and we are back better than ever! Due to our brand-new bar, our learners gain experience using the latest industry-standard equipment, giving themselves the skills and knowledge they need to be successful out in industry. This also means our drinks offering has been further extended to give customers a fantastic array to choose from.

“We already welcome in the local community on a regular basis, but we would love to see more of you! We will be holding an open day for the community to come down and experience what we have on offer on Wednesday 24th January, 12pm – 2pm. We hope to see you there!”

Find out more about eating out in Chesterfield.

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.

Taste restaurant refurbishment

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

New hires and promotions announced for Chesterfield Champions

Three Chesterfield businesses have announced new hires and promotions in recent weeks.

Banner Jones Solicitors, Shorts Accountants and Pinelog Ltd. have all bolstered their teams, showcasing further growth of their respective organisations.

Read more about the new team members from across the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions below.

Pinelog welcomes new Production Manager

Steve Betts - Pinelog

Steve Betts has joined Chesterfield-based timber lodge manufacturer Pinelog Limited as Production Manager.

He brings a wealth of experience in manufacturing, engineering and fabrication to his role at Pinelog, one of the UK’s leading designers and manufacturers of luxury timber lodges and buildings.

Within his new role, Steve will support Pinelog’s detail driven process, from design conception, manufacture, delivery, installation, and customer handover.

Steve commented: “I’m a process driven person, with years of experience in fine tuning production and developing teams’ skillsets. I’m excited to see how I can support Pinelog’s vision.”

Steve’s employment background spans a number of blue-chip companies, including Toyota in both Derby and Japan for 17 years. Most recently, Steve worked in a consultancy role for a modular building manufacturer in the north of the UK.

He explained: “I first became aware of Pinelog when I visited Mercia Marina holiday park in Derby in my previous role and saw one of the company’s timber lodges. I was impressed by Pinelog’s quality.

“I am delighted to now be working for a company with such high standards of design and production. The attention to detail is unrivalled. Pinelog’s products stand apart in the timber lodge market.”

As well as the production of complete timber holiday lodges, in his new role Steve will also be overseeing the production of the commercial buildings designed and built by Pinelog which are also manufactured at the company’s Chesterfield site.

Steve’s appointment is just one of a number of new management appointments Pinelog has created following its move to a new, larger site in Chesterfield in 2023. Earlier this year Pinelog appointed Judy Barwell to the position of Sales Account Manager.

Welcoming Steve to the role, Nick Grayson, Chairman of Pinelog Group, said: “Steve’s comprehensive background in production and management within a number of industries provides us with a springboard for further developing our own best in class processes.”

New recruit bolsters Business Legal Services team at Banner Jones

Tim Barley Banner Jones

Regional law firm Banner Jones has welcomed back Property Executive Tim Barley who returned to the firm in August.

Tim has commenced a 2-year Trainee Solicitor Apprenticeship with Banner Jones and begins studying for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), following which he will be a fully qualified solicitor.

Originally joining Banner Jones in 2018, Tim will now work alongside Head of Business Legal Services, Andrew Fielder, to support with both commercial property and corporate work.

Having previously specialised in residential property matters including leasehold enfranchisement claims for landlords and tenants, his return to the firm will see him further his expert knowledge in a range of Business Legal Services.

Andrew Fielder, Head of Business Legal Services at Banner Jones, said: “We are really pleased to be welcoming Tim back to the firm, and to be supporting him with his apprenticeship.

“He is an extremely passionate and capable trainee, and we know he will be a huge asset to both the team and our clients.”

Further commenting on Tim’s return to Banner Jones to complete his Trainee Solicitor Apprenticeship, Andrew said it was ‘indicative of the firm’s commitment to investing in talent’, adding: “As a firm, we see the huge value in company-funded training to enable our employees to achieve their ambitions.

“This is evidenced in the fact that we currently have nine Trainee Solicitors on the 2-year LPC route based across our offices in Chesterfield, Mansfield and Sheffield, as well as 2 Chesterfield-based Trainee Solicitor apprentices and various others undertaking CILEx and Licensed Conveyancing qualifications.

“We are delighted that not only are we helping our staff reach their potential, but also providing our clients with a high quality of service.”

Tim Barley added: “It feels great to be returning to such a great firm and to be assisting Andrew Fielder.

“The firm as a whole has an unrivalled reputation for delivering accessible, customer service-led legal services and that’s something I am equally passionate about.”

Shorts promotes Kirstie Wilson to Audit and Accounts Director

Shorts Kirstie

Shorts has announced the promotion of Kirstie Wilson to the position of Audit and Accounts Director with immediate effect.

Since joining Shorts in 2016 as an Audit and Accounts Senior, Kirstie has demonstrated exceptional dedication and aptitude, earning promotions to Manager in 2018 and then Senior Manager in 2021.

Her progression to Director is testament to her exemplary skills and continued commitment to excellence, and to the active role she has played in the development of our corporate team during that time.

On confirming her promotion, Audit and Accounts Partner Howard Freeman said: “Kirstie’s promotion is very much deserved, and she has worked hard to achieve it.

“As Director, Kirstie will take on the role of Engagement Leader on a portfolio of our clients, will hold Responsible Individual (RI) status, and in due course will be able to sign audit reports on behalf of the firm, in addition to leading non-audit work.

“A fantastic achievement, as Kirstie will be the first non-partner to hold this position in Shorts. She will also take on the role of engagement leader for most of our charity clients, having obtained the ICAEW Diploma in Charity Accounting earlier this year.”

Kirstie said: “I am delighted to have been promoted to Audit and Accounts Director at Shorts, and I’m proud to take the next step on my professional journey.

“Shorts provide an excellent environment for learning and development, and my promotion demonstrates the genuine commitment within the firm to support the team with structured career paths.

“I am very much looking forward to working with existing and future clients and helping to contribute to the continued success of the firm.”

Kirstie is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and holds a Diploma in Charity Accounting. She is a Xero certified adviser, proficient in many cloud-based accounting systems, such as Xero and Sage and has experience working with both incorporated and unincorporated businesses.

In December 2022 Kirstie was also appointed the youngest ever Trustee at Ashgate Hospice. She can be contacted by calling 0114 2671617 / 01244 559955 and more information can be found at shorts.uk.com.

Find out more about why Chesterfield is the ideal location to base your business here.

Pinelog, Banner Jones Solicitors and Shorts 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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Chesterfield welcomes more than 17,000 visitors to annual Christmas lights switch-on

More than 17,000 visitors got into the festive spirit in Chesterfield last weekend, according to data from Vicar Lane Shopping Centre.

The town officially switched on its Christmas Lights on Sunday, 19th November to mark the beginning of the Christmas period. In total, 17,313 came along to see the town lit up.

The weekend saw numerous attractions in the town centre, including a festive market, street entertainers, Santa’s grottos, fairground rides, and the annual Festival of Christmas Trees at the Crooked Spire.

Shaun Brown, Centre Manager at Vicar Lane says: ‘’We were thrilled to welcome so many visitors to Vicar Lane for the lights switch on. It was fantastic to see everyone getting into the Christmas spirit. We hope families will enjoy the upcoming festive activities we have planned including visiting Santa and our Festive Fun Day this weekend”.

After a successful opening weekend, the Christmas fun certainly isn’t stopping in Chesterfield. Santa is being kept busy, offering children the chance to meet him before the big day at a number of locations across the town.

This Saturday (25th November), between 10am to 4pm, there will be a day of festive fun at Vicar Lane. Visitors are sure to have a ‘bear-y’ merry time as Snowy the polar bear will be roaming around the centre ready to spread festive cheer throughout the day. Visitors will also be able to take part in the personalised bauble workshop. The workshop will be located next to Waterstones and no advance booking is required. Subject to availability.

On specified dates in December, between 11am-4pm, Vicar Lane is inviting families to come along to Santa’s workshop to get writing their letters to Santa. Plus, there will be lots of Christmas crafts for all to get involved in.  Santa’s elf workshop will be located next to Waterstones.

Vicar Lane’s very own Elf Training Academy will also be open on Saturday 16th December and Friday 22nd December between 11am to 4pm. This will be located next to Waterstones.

For a full guide to your perfect Christmas in Chesterfield, including events and acivities, local guides to the best gifts, food and drink, where to meet Santa, an much more, head over to our Christmas in Chesterfield page.

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

christmas lights new square

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

Double award win for Chesterfield creative technology firm

Chesterfield-based Noonah, a company which provides experiential engagement technology has secured two prestigious accolades at this year’s Event Tech Awards.

The company emerged victorious in the categories of ‘Best New Technology Product’ and ‘Best Use of Technology for Engagement & Interaction (B2C)’.

Noonah is a trailblazer in delivering cutting-edge experiential engagement tech for brand activations, experiential retail, and events.

The first award, ‘Best New Technology’, was presented to the company for its groundbreaking innovation, Glamdroid®. This robotic camera arm has redefined event experiences by integrating high-speed robotics, super slow-motion video, and unparalleled social media shareability.

The technology has quickly become a game-changer in the event industry, offering agencies, brands, and private events the opportunity to provide guests with an unparalleled A-list experience.

Glamdroid® has been seen at major events, such as Disney’s Mandalorian Premiere, TikTok EOY Wrap Party, H&M x Mugler Launch, as well as working with brands like No7 Beauty, Adobe and White Claw.

The second award, ‘Best Use of Technology for Engagement & Interaction (B2C)’, was granted for the company’s collaborative project with eBay.

Central to eBay’s appearance at MCM Comic Con, Noonah’s cutting-edge technology facilitated captivating interactions between the brand and comic-book fans.

The eBay “TCG ME” experience, developed in collaboration with agencies DEPT® and Experience12, featured branded onsite photo booths and live event printing technology, enabling attendees to create unique trading cards in real-time.

The engaging experience allowed comic book fans to appear on personalised collectible cards. Attendees could choose from various characters and themes, infusing their personalities into their unique trading cards.

Noonah’s technology captured selfies and integrated them into the card designs, with skilled technicians printing the cards within minutes. Attendees left the event with a physical card and an animated digital version to share on social media using #ebaycomiccon22.

“We are thrilled to receive these prestigious awards, recognising the innovation and impact of our technologies,” said Vanessa Holmes, Senior Account Manager at Noonah.

“These awards exemplify our commitment to revolutionising the event industry, creating unforgettable experiences for guests, and helping brands connect with their audiences in meaningful ways.”

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

noonah event tech awards win

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Junction Arts unveils new art installation in Chesterfield town centre

A new art installation has been unveiled at Elder Way in Chesterfield town centre this week, created by artist Lucie Maycock to shine a light on community arts in Chesterfield and raise awareness of local charity, Junction Arts.

Jomast, the company which has developed the former Co-op department store building on Elder Way, commissioned the piece to bring colour and light to the building this winter, creating a point of interest while telling the story of Junction Arts and the work they do in the community.

The artwork can be seen in the window of one of the new units in the Elder Way building.

Entitled ‘We are all artists and creators’, the artwork includes original illustrations, which frame a stunning collection of lanterns that have been made by the local community over the last three decades, for the annual Bolsover Lantern Parade. People can see the display in the window located opposite the Co-op Bank, which is best viewed in the evening when the lanterns are lit up – over 7000 lights have been used to bring the artwork to life.

The window was designed by Chesterfield artist and Junction Arts board member Lucie Maycock, who has a personal connection to the building. Lucie’s Mother, Karen Maycock was the Display Supervisor for the Co-op, dressing the windows at the old department store for over 30 years before it closed. Karen has been on hand to help Lucie with the design, revisiting her old place of work to ensure that the window display is perfect.

Lucie said: “When Junction Arts asked me to create the window display on Elder Way in the old Co-op building, I was excited by the idea. Not just about the project itself but the link to my Mum and her career as a window dresser in the same building. I grew up seeing my Mum in the windows of this beautiful department store, I remember walking home from school via town to see if I could see her and knock on the window to say hi and show all my friends that this is what she did as a job.

“I asked my Mum if she wanted to help create the arrangements for the window display. She was really excited about going back there and helping me to make the fabulous creation come to life. I am so lucky to have her skills and expertise to help execute this project, it’s a real privilege.

“Drawing onto the window was a wonderful experience. I kept imagining that this was how my Mum would have felt for all those years she spent at the Co-op. As people walked by, they were so friendly, saying hi, asking what I was doing and generally being wonderful. I felt emotionally connected to the artwork, space and purpose of this project.

“Doing this window for Junction Arts was a pleasure and I feel privileged to be promoting my passion for community arts whilst working with my Mum, and being able to put myself in the same place she did so many times.”

Junction Arts is an award-winning participatory arts charity, that was established in 1976 to develop and deliver engaging arts experiences within disadvantaged areas, to improve wellbeing, build confidence and skills, address inequality and inspire change. The local charity runs several projects throughout the year as well as organising events including The Chesterfield Children’s Festival, Tapton Lock Festival and Bolsover Lantern Parade.

Junction Arts Managing Director, Emily Bowman said: “Thank you to Jomast for giving us this opportunity to showcase community art in the town centre, it’s great to see the lanterns as the centrepiece to the design, as we are celebrating 30 years of the Bolsover Lantern Parade this year. We hope that Lucie and Karen’s amazing work will bring light and hope to people, inspiring them to get creative in their communities. The window perfectly reflects the work we do in Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire and I hope it encourages more people to engage with us in the future.”

Jomast’s Commercial Property Director Mark Hill said: “We’re all really excited by the artwork that Lucie is creating. Her link to the building’s former use as a Co-op department store is remarkable and we couldn’t think of anyone better placed to bring one of the new units to life with this stunning artwork. The lanterns really will shine a light on this beautiful building and its redevelopment.”

The artwork will be on display until spring 2024. For more information visit www.junctionarts.org or follow Junction Arts on social media @JunctionArtsUK.

Junction Arts and Elder Way Development support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

junction arts elder way window

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

Planning permission sought for rail training and innovation centre

Planning permission is being sought for the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) – a modern rail innovation and training centre set to be located next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

If approved the new centre will provide workshop and classroom space to support speciality rail industry training, research and development facilities and commercial space for rail related businesses.

In total the building is expected to cost around £4 million. Funding for the project has been provided through the Staveley Town Deal.

Development of the centre is being delivered by Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, Chesterfield Borough Council and New Rail (part of Newcastle University).

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “The Rail sector offers a fantastic range of high-quality careers and DRIIVe is all about ensuing our residents can receive the skills and training they need to access these opportunities. This is an ambitious project that will create opportunities for generations to come and reflects the council’s aims to expand the local Rail sector.

“I’m delighted that Town Deal funding is being used to support the development of this building because new training facilities like this will improve career prospects and help ensure that Staveley is the place to start, to stay and to grow.”

Mervyn Allcock, general manager at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “If it is approved, DRIIVe will help establish Barrow Hill as the home of the rail industry in Chesterfield and we look forward to speaking to companies about the potential benefits of being based at the centre. Any revenue from the building will be used to support the Roundhouse in achieving its aim of preserving our local Rail heritage.”

DRIIVe will provide 1,423 square metres of floor space consisting of classroom and workshop training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial offices.

The centre will support a network of speciality training providers – offering rail-related education from level 2 through to postgraduate training and research.

Becoming a prominent location for rail technology, DRIIVe will also serve as a base for rail-related supply chain businesses which will have access to the very latest research and innovation.

DRIIVe will create about 20 full time jobs and by year five it aims to support around 270 trainees, supporting local people to access highly skilled careers in the rail industry.

Early development and design costs were funded through the Staveley Town Deal Accelerator Fund.

Driive artists impression

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , ,

Eat in the Park festival set to return to Chesterfield in 2024

Eat in the Park, a family-friendly music and food festival which made its first appearance in Chesterfield earlier this year is set to return next summer.

The event, which sees dozens of acts including popular tribute bands, along with up-and-coming talent, will be back with more music, fun and entertainment in Queens Park on August 10th-11th 2024.

Last year’s festival saw just over 3,000 people per day in attendance, with thousands more expected to visit Chesterfield for the 2024 event.

Next year’s bumper line-up has already been confirmed, with tributes to Elton John and Take That set to headline the main stage.

Attendees will also enjoy tributes to well-known artists, such as Adele, Blur, The Stone Roses, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, McBusted and Tina Turner.

Eat in the Park organisiers, Jake Burnham and George Darbyshire commented: “We were absolutely delighted to bring Eat In The Park to Chesterfield. We were blown away by the response and cannot wait for the event to grow within the two in 2024 and beyond.”

Speaking on the success of the 2023 event, the duo said: “The weather tried its best to dampen the mood but the amazing acts and entertainment won the battle over the weekend and it was absolutely brilliant to see the people of Chesterfield enjoying themselves.

“It is quite nervy coming into a new town with an event but we were delighted with the response. We have our identity and we have a sense of pride when we see people embracing it and enjoying Eat In The Park for what it is – a brilliant family event with incredible music, food & activities. Queens Park is the ideal venue for an event like ours. We cannot wait to return in 2024 .”

The event is launching a special Black Friday promotion for tickets this weekend, which will give fans access to the event at the cheapest available price for 72 hours starting on Friday, 24th November.

Tickets will be available on the festival’s website, and people can stay up to date with the festival on its Facebook and Instagram channels.

Eat in the Park 873x466

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , ,

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