About Chesterfield

Second round of £1.2m East Midlands Create Growth programme opens to businesses

Applications have opened for the next cohort of a £1.2 million support programme for East Midlands creative businesses.

Companies are being encouraged to apply for the second phase of Create Growth, which is funded by the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS).

It comes as 23 East Midlands businesses completed the first cohort of the regional business growth accelerator.

The inaugural cohort, made up of firms from across Leicester, Leicestershire, Derby and Derbyshire, and Lincoln, Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland, have benefited from a programme of focused support over the last eight weeks.

Participants ranged from marketing and design agencies to architects, theatre companies to video producers.

Businesses completed an initial business health check, attended a full-day business bootcamp, which included opportunities to network, and logged on to eight virtual masterclasses covering themes including leadership, marketing, sales, finance and business planning.

As well as the 90-minute masterclasses delivered by industry experts, all participants were also assigned a mentor offering five hours of free support.

Guy Lewis, Director at programme delivery partner CDI Alliance, said: “Our first cohort were enthusiastic, engaged and committed to the programme.

“We’ve had some really encouraging feedback about the bootcamp session, masterclasses, and support offered throughout the programme, and look forward to seeing what’s next for the businesses who took part in Cohort One.”

All of the participating businesses now have the option to complete a fully funded 12-hour investment readiness workshop, helping to prepare their firms for growth.

To be eligible for Cohort 2 of the East Midlands Create Growth programme, businesses must:

  • Have turnover growth of 10% year-on-year over approximately 3 years (including either prior to or during the Pandemic)
  • Employ a minimum of 2 people over the last two years (full-time, part-time or freelance)
  • Have created a revenue generating product, launched a new platform or service, or reached a market of scale
  • Generated sales revenue in the last 2 years.
  • Be trading or registered within Leicester, Leicestershire, Derby, Derbyshire, Greater Lincolnshire, or Rutland.

Create Growth was launched in 2022 by DCMS, in partnership with Innovate UK. It is designed to support the development of creative industries with high-growth potential across England, outside of London.

The East Midlands programme is led by East Midlands Creative Consortium (EMC²), which aims to help creative businesses get investment ready. Its members include local authorities, universities, local enterprise partnerships, and many other organisations in the private, public and voluntary sector.

EMC² aims to support 100 creative businesses across three years through four cohort groups. The coalition came together through its successful £1.2m bid for the Government’s Create Growth Programme, led by the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP).

Applications for the second cohort are now open – any eligible businesses interested in applying can find out more here.

CentralTechnology office

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

Chesterfield Champions to support those in need this Christmas

Several organisations in Chesterfield are playing their part in supporting our community this Christmas.

Businesses in the town will be helping those in need, with a number of different initiatives being offered which people can support.

If you’re looking to help and support those less fortunate in our area over the festive period, check out how you can get involved by viewing some of the initiatives below from our town’s network of Chesterfield Champions.


Rosewood Wealth Management supports Lifehouse Church Appeal

Rosewood Wealth Management One Waterside Place

Chesterfield’s Rosewood Wealth Management is supporting an appeal hosted by Lifehouse Church, and is inviting people across the area to donate food items to help those less fortunate.

The church is building food hampers for vulnerable people in the community, and is asking for people to donate specific food and drink items, as displayed below.

Those wishing to donate can drop off products at Rosewood Wealth Management’s new office on the 4th floor at One Waterside Place, Basin Square, Brimington Road, Chesterfield, S41 7FH.


Chester’s Toy Appeal returns at Chesterfield FC

cfc toy appeal 23

 

 

Chester’s Toy Appeal, sponsored by Brett Martin Ltd, is now underway. New, unwrapped toys, donated as part of the appeal, will be handed out to families in need so that children who would otherwise go without receive a present on Christmas Day.

Donations can be taken to the main reception at John Pye Ltd on Sheffield Road, Chesterfield, every Wednesday and Thursday, until December 13 (between 11am and 3pm).

Donations can also be taken to the main reception at the SMH Group Stadium, from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (except on matchdays).


Paperclip supports Christmas lunch for vulnerable people in Chesterfield

Anne - paperclip Brochure - Landscape

Chesterfield-based Paperclip Ltd. is supporting an appeal to provide a Christmas Lunch for disadvantaged people across Chesterfield.

The lunch will be held at Whittington Moor Methodist Church, Scarsdale Road, S41 8NA on Christmas Day from 1pm-5:30pm.

Those wishing to volunteer or donate to the event can ring the Paperclip Christmas Dinner Hotline on 01246 948 401. A full list of donations being accepted can be found on the Paperclip Linkedin page


Leverton UK to support Chesterfield FC Community Trust Food Box Appeal

Molly Jowitt, Leverton UK

Chesterfield property and construction company, Leverton UK has set up a Just Giving page to support a food box appeal being supported by Chesterfield FC Community Trust.

The fundraiser will also give the chance for a deserving family to win the Harrods bear, Ethan. They will also invite the winners to the Leverton UK Hospitality box at Chesterfield Football Club for a match.

Every £1 raised will enter a child into the draw, with the winner being announced 20th December by official Chesterfield FC mascot, Chester The Field Mouse.


Snowflakes appear on Chesterfield building to support The Children’s Hospital Charity

sheff childrens snowflakes

Several snowflakes have been lit up on the prominent Homes by Holmes building on Saltergate in Chesterfield, to support the charity’s annual appeal.

Each snowflake has been sponsored by a local resident or business, helping the hospital to continue its vital work in funding life-saving equipment, new facilities, a comfortable environment and vital research, which changes paediatric care for thousands of children from across the world.

Find out more about the 2023 Snowflakes appeal. 


Greatest Hits Radio supports Mission Christmas Appeal

Greatest Hits Radio is supporting the Mission Christmas fundraiser by the Cash For Kids Charity. Presenter, Ken Bruce explained how people can get involved:


Rosewood Wealth Management, Chesterfield FC, Leverton UK, Paperclip, The Children’s Hospital Charity, and Greatest Hits Radio 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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Funding scheme for green innovation scoops national award

A programme that supports organisations to develop green energy and carbon reduction schemes in Derbyshire has won a category at this year’s Innovation Awards.

The Green Entrepreneurs Programme, a partnership between the University of Derby and Derbyshire County Council, is a £2 million grant fund open to individuals and organisations based in the county looking to invest in and develop projects that support the drive towards the UK’s target of net zero carbon by 2050.

The programme team picked up the Sustainability Innovation Champion – Organisation category at the Innovation Awards, organised by the Technology Supply Chain, a membership organisation that connects UK innovative manufacturing, engineering and technology companies to grants, funded support and new opportunities. The awards recognise, reward and celebrate the companies, individuals and organisations dedicated to innovation. The national awards ceremonies attract thousands of entries from across the UK and beyond in four main categories: innovators, individual innovators, innovation champions and innovation thought leaders.

Mark Wheddon, Head of Delivery, Innovation and Research at the University of Derby, said: “We are delighted to win this award in recognition of our partnership with Derbyshire County Council that supports so many innovative projects in the county as we move towards net zero carbon. It is inspiring to see the resourcefulness and creativity of individuals and organisations here in Derbyshire, and it is rewarding to be able to contribute towards initiatives that are making a real difference to our sustainable future.”

Councillor Tony King, Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Clean Growth and Regeneration, said: “We recognise the contribution our business community can make towards meeting our target of becoming a net zero county by 2050.

“We’re proud that through the Green Entrepreneurs Programme and our partnership with the University of Derby, we’ve been able to support local firms to develop green energy and cut carbon emissions as part of our net-zero ambitions.”

Dr Richard Fallon, CEO of the Technology Supply Chain, added: “The Innovation Awards recognise, celebrate and reward innovation across the UK and internationally. Our winners are considered best-in-class and it is a pleasure to celebrate their achievements. This is a great win for the work done by the University of Derby in supporting SMEs in their region with much needed green innovation.”

Find out more about the Green Entrepreneurs Programme. To find out about the latest support for businesses in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

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

eco busines green recycle suatinability

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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 , , , , ,

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