The owner of Chesterfield’s Brockwell Books says he is ‘excited’ to have opened a shop in Chesterfield’s historic Market Hall.
For the last five years Brockwell Books has operated on the historic open-air market on a Thursday and a Saturday. Now, with the new shop unit, the popular book store is open on Chesterfield’s market days: Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Speaking about the change from market stall to Market Hall, Ed Fordham said: “This step is driven first and foremost by a desire to get our book stock inside and undercover during the winter months. This motivation is at the heart of the new shop unit, but it also means we have a much larger stock, space for customers to browse and the benefits of the warm and the dry.”
Ed added: “This also means that once again Chesterfield has its own secondhand bookshop, something that every self-respecting and ambitious Town should have. We have been very touched by the support and affection people have shown as we have set the shop up and we look forward to seeing folks over the coming weeks and months.”
“We are tucked inside The Market Hall in the heart of Chesterfield. The range of books is at best eclectic, unlikely and obscure – but also fits the themes of history, politics, geography, poetry, literature, numismatics, topography, fashion, nature, photography and much, much more besides. Indeed, we would even go so far as to say we can’t predict what we might get in stock next.
“The books are complemented by a range of maps, poetry & literature texts and quality excess books priced very reasonably for all budgets. In addition, we have a number of pieces of pottery, porcelain, paper & card ephemera, ironwork and antiques.
“This builds up into what we think is a fun and interesting experience for you, our customers. For this project to work, we need you to contribute your ongoing shopping loyalty – but we wanted to take the opportunity to say thank you.
“If you are passing, please do come and say hello, and if you haven’t been – come and hunt us down. We will try to not disappoint.”
Brockwell Books is open on Chesterfield’s market days of Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Ed has not ruled out a return to the open-air market after the winter months, but for now is concentrating on making the shop a success. Find the shop on Facebook at Brockwell Books of Chesterfield.
Custom Solar has recently been awarded ‘Commercial Solar Project of the Year’ at this year’s Solar and Storage LIVE, for its innovative work at Portsmouth International Ports.
The Solar PV Project, in partnership with Portsmouth City Council involved designing and developing a Solar PV carport canopy system, a 1.2Mw battery storage solution and a 600kWp rooftop solar system.
This project was unique due to challenges faced at foundation and surveying. Operations teams encountered a plague burial site on the planned locations for the carport canopies. After archeologists surveyed the site, the team were instructed to widen the site and ensure that the structures were less than 1m deep. Considering this, the foundations had to be redesigned completely by Customs design engineers to revert to a concrete pad foundation of 3m x 3m per post fixing.
This makes the 2,660 solar panel installation a landmark moment, worthy of its award, as it is one of the first carport canopies to sit at 5 meters high with only 1-meter depth for fixings. Portsmouth International Ports are also the first UK port to have solar canopies, which will contribute to generating 35% of the site’s power.
Custom Solar’s CEO, Gary Sucharewycz, Said: “We are delighted to have won the award for Commercial Solar and Storage project of the year. To have been recognised at the main industry awards for such a prestige project that the team have developed from concept, is a great reward for everyone involved.
“We have worked with a fantastic client in Portsmouth City Council to have successfully delivered the project through many challenges. We see this as a great case study for how solar and storage can be deployed in major operational environments, with solar car port canopy’s set to play a big role in clients generating their own power and assisting their Net zero ambitions to be realised.”
Cabinet member for Climate Change and Environment at Portsmouth City Council, Cllr Kimberly Barrett, said: “It is the council’s priority to support clean growth. I’m delighted that we’ve met our target to begin generating clean energy at the port by the end of 2022, and when fully operational, it will reduce annual emissions by 239 tonnes at this busy site. We’re committed to take positive action to tackle climate change, and this cut in emissions will boost our ambitions to reduce carbon emissions across the city to net-zero by 2030″.
Custom Solar LTD designs, develops, installs, and maintains large scale infrastructure storage and solar systems for clientele including commercial and public sector institutions across the UK. The firm’s track record of tailoring projects for large-scale commercial clients relies on our creativity, our expertise in engineering, and an industry-leading attitude to health & safety.
The company supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k has been hailed a great success by organisers, event partners and participants after more than 1000 runners took part in the event on Sunday 16 October.
Robert Byers was the first to cross the 10k finish line with a time of 32:56, with Hayley Gill the first female to finish in a time of 37:45 both setting new course records.
The oldest participant in the event was John Menary aged 78, and Jayden Peace was the youngest at 15 years old.
Max Taylor was the winner of the City Taxi’s Fun Run, which took place within the boundaries of Queen’s Park in tandem with the main event.
Around 12 organisations also took part in the first Pronto Paints Wellbeing Challenge, a team entry into the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K’s events.
The event also helped raise thousands for good causes across the region, with circa £30,000 pledged for charities including main charity partners – Redbrik Foundation, Chesterfield-based Ashgate Hospice and North Anston-based Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, along with many other charities selected by the runners from across the region.
Following the event, John Timms, Event Director of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k said: “It’s been fantastic to see another successful Redbrik Chesterfield 10k.
“When we launched the event in 2020, we wanted a fantastic experience for participants that benefited the local community as well as to generate much-needed funds for our partner charities. Seeing the number of people who turned out to cheer on the runners all around the race route was amazing to see and makes such a difference to the participants.
“We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has helped ensure that the event came together, including our event partners, sponsors and each and every runner on the day.
“In particular we would like to say a huge thank you to all the volunteer marshals who gave up their free time on a Sunday morning to keep everything running smoothly, from assisting the runners and helping the general public.
“I also want to thank anyone who was affected by the road disruptions across Chesterfield for their understanding throughout the day.
“The money raised by this event will help good causes like the Redbrik Foundation, Ashgate Hospice and Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, and other charities to continue their fantastic work in the local community.”
David Cooper, Trustee of headline sponsor the Redbrik Foundation and a participant in the 10k said: “We’ve really enjoyed working with the Chesterfield 10k team, giving something back to Chesterfield who have always been supportive of our estate agency Redbrik, now approaching its 10th year in business.
“Seeing the number of spectators lining the streets of the town centre was wonderful, it really showed how much support the people of Chesterfield have to give.
“You can’t ask for a more picturesque running route, starting and ending in beautiful Queens Park and seeing the town at its best, with everyone in the community cheering you on.
“Events such as the Chesterfield 10k help to showcase the town on a large scale, with huge numbers of people coming from all parts of the country to support, contribute or take part. Bring on 2023!”
Business growth and support company, Great2, is hosting a launch event on Tuesday 15th November 2022, 4-6pm to unveil a new Business Lounge at their coworking space Great2Work in Chesterfield.
The new lounge at Hayfield House (on Devonshire Street, off Holywell Street) is thought to be the first of its kind in the area.
The event will hear speakers including Dom Stevens of Destination Chesterfield introducing the space, Beverley Beck (a member of the coworking space and supporter of the business) and Andy Ball CEO of Great2 who will explain the ethos behind Great2 and why he is so passionate about helping local businesses to grow.
There will also be time to network with local businesspeople over free drinks and nibbles. There will be a raffle with prizes including a month of free hot-desking at the coworking space, a free business lounge membership for a month, a bottle of Prosecco plus other great prizes. Great2Work’s Front of House, Hannah Finney, will also be conducting tours of the building including the coworking space, training rooms and meeting rooms so that attendees can see how we are encouraging businesses into the town.
The Business Lounge was developed to attract freelancers, micro and small businesses to the town centre. Giving them a comfortable place to go for informal meetings with colleagues or clients and a place to work from in between meetings. With a monthly membership, you can come and go as you please (no need to book). WiFi is included and there’s an ‘honesty box’ for refreshments.
Andy Ball, CEO of Great2 commented: “My vision for Great2 is to become the ‘go-to’ partner for local businesses who want to grow sustainably and make a difference. Our new business lounge is a first for Chesterfield and our aim is to give local businesspeople a professional, flexible and comfortable place to work from – keeping businesses in the town and using town centre facilities. The business lounge alongside our coworking space and business support services allows Great2 to provide a full suite of tools to help local businesses grow.”
Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield Manager said: “I look forward to updating on the regeneration of Chesterfield at the Great2Work Open House Event. Great 2 are one of many independent companies that have decided to Invest in Chesterfield over the past couple of years and make the town their home.”
Great2 supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Several businesses and organisations in Chesterfield are doing their bit to support the community.
A number of initiatives and fundraising efforts have been launched to support charities and local residents. Find out more in our roundup below:
Chesterfield Football Club launches ‘Feed Chesterfield Together’
Feed Chesterfield Together has been launched by the Community Trust as a joint venture with Chesterfield Locality Children’s Partnership (LCP). The aim of the campaign is to support local food provisions within Chesterfield and the surrounding areas.
Community manager Jayne Bacon outlined the new initiative, explaining: “It’s about helping local families through what’s going to be a difficult winter.
“Feed Chesterfield Together will raise funds to support existing food provisions such as food banks and distribution units to help and support vulnerable families in the town.
“We want to provide our support and help to feed the most vulnerable this winter as it’s going to be a tough time for everyone.
“We’re delighted with how things have gone so far. We began with a bucket collection at the last home match, raising £250 to begin with, which is a great start.”
David Mills, chair of the LCP, is proud that Chesterfield Schools and pupils have come together to support this crucial initiative. He said: “Schools have provided a platform for children and young people to support the most vulnerable families in Chesterfield.
“This demonstrates the tremendous positive contribution children and young people can make to their local community in a very challenging time.”
Jayne spoke about the importance of the Trust being involved with these sorts of projects.
“It’s absolutely vital for us,” she said. ”We are a community facility, and we want to be here for the people of Chesterfield when they most need help and support.
“It’s essential that we provide support to the most vulnerable in Chesterfield and help them in any way we can.”
Jayne also revealed that a warm space in the HUB will be made available for families over the winter. She said: “We will be opening the HUB from 5pm to 7.30pm, Monday to Friday, where the heating will be on and we will provide books, magazines and board games.
“It’s a space for people to stay warm and safe. Some of the Feed Chesterfield Together funds will be allocated to offering food and drinks in the warm HUB via Chester’s Den cafe.
“We want people who use the warm HUB to feel welcome, have fun, stay warm and have food available too. It’s vital for us to provide these opportunities and we really want to provide a safe space for families to make use of.
“It’s important that we open our doors. We are a community facility, and we want to open that up for people to use. We’re hopeful this will help a number of families.”
A GoFundMe page has been set-up for people who would like to make a donation to help the project. To access this, please visit www.gofundme.com and search for ‘Feed Chesterfield Together’.
Paperclip has been ‘Wearing it Pink’ to raise monies for the charity, Breast Cancer Now. The ‘official’ day is Friday (21 October).
Each team member made a donation and Paperclip agreed to match the funds raised. 1 in 8 Women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime
Autumn is in full swing at the Kids Planet nurseries, and one nursery in particular has gone above and beyond in its pursuit to provide children with an accessible magical space to experience pumpkin picking.
The Kids Planet Sheepbridge team have created their own indoor pumpkin patch for the children to explore, truly bringing the outside in with hay, pumpkins, leaves, wheelbarrows, wellington boots, and more.
The children of all ages are using the pumpkin patch, and will be doing some pumpkin decorating and sensory activities with the inside of the pumpkins, working in line Kids Planet’s values of inspiring awe and wonder.
Lauren Poundall, Acting Nursery Manager at Kids Planet Sheepbridge, said: “We are thrilled with our indoor pumpkin patch. It was important to us to create this in order to give all children the opportunity to experience Pumpkin Picking, as sometimes these types of places are not easily accessible to all.
“We wanted to build an inspiring environment which would interest and spark children’s communication. Our Families have loved the Pumkin Patch and the children come into nursery asking to go and see the hay and the Pumpkins.”
Ashgate Hospice’s ‘Light up a life’ returns
Ashgate Hospice’s new-look Light Up a Life campaign has launched and the charity is giving the community a way to remember their loved ones during what can be a difficult time for many.
Supporters will receive a lantern in the post which can be personalised with a photo of their loved one and a special message in return for a suggested £20 donation.
They will also be sent an electric light to place inside their lantern and an invitation to join a special procession and remembrance ceremony in Chesterfield on the evening of Sunday 4th December.
The poignant 1.2-mile procession, which will start around 5pm, will bring walkers to the hospice at Old Brampton for a special remembrance ceremony in the beautifully lit gardens from 6pm.
The evening will include a touching reflection from local celebrant Jonathan Reeve, gentle live music and refreshments.
Jack Wood, Head of Fundraising at Ashgate Hospice, said: “Every year, Ashgate Hospice unites our community to remember our loved ones during this difficult time.
“But this year will be especially poignant as we will finally get to remember together, in-person, for the first time since the pandemic.
“We hope our Light Up a Life event will bring some comfort to families like Ali’s at such an emotional time of year.
“I hope you will join us at this very special remembrance event and help raise vital funds to support many more families when they need urgent care and support.”
Chesterfield Football Club, Paperclip, Kids Planet and Ashgate Hospice support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire
Chesterfield Borough Council is hosting a pop-up recruitment event in the Pavements Shopping Centre on Thursday 27 October from 10am to 2pm.
The event will take place in Unit 25 of the Pavements Shopping Centre, previously Wards Shoe Shop, opposite Boots.
Also attending the recruitment event are colleagues from the Department for Work and Pensions and the Careers Service at Derbyshire County Council.
People can find out more about current vacancies at the council, and representatives from the Human Resources department will be on hand to answer any questions people may have about working for the organisation.
New vacancies are added to the council’s website every week, so whether residents are looking to take their first steps into the workplace or are looking for a more senior role, they can visit the website to find out more about current opportunities to work at the council.
Councillor Sharon Blank, cabinet member for governance, said: “This is the second pop-up event we have held in the Pavement’s Shopping Centre, and we are encouraging anyone looking for work to drop in to see us during the event times.
“The recruitment event is taking place on the same day as the popular 1940s market, so if you are heading into the town centre, come along to see us and find out what roles are available at the council and ask any questions you have about how to complete application forms, or the level of experience needed for various positions”.
The council has a commitment to support residents to find new job opportunities, and have access to skills, training and apprenticeships, and the council colleagues who are hosting the event will also be able to provide information about what’s on offer.
Those attending can bring their CV along and leave it with the team to be considered for any future vacancies that may be suitable for them.
The council’s website and social media channels are updated regularly with new positions, so anyone looking for work is encouraged to check these sites for the latest opportunities.
This is a drop in event, and no appointment is needed.
Members of Chesterfield’s Property and Construction Group have praised the ongoing collaboration between private and public sector organisations across the town, which is helping to drive forward several landmark regeneration schemes in the area.
The Chesterfield Investment Summit was delivered to packed room at the Casa Hotel on 28th September 2022. At the summit, the town’s property and construction sector and a handful Chesterfield Champions were invited to a lunch event, which enabled further networking and an opportunity to ask questions to Chesterfield Borough Council’s leader, Tricia Gilby and Chief Executive, Huw Bowen.
After the event, Cllr Tricia Gilby commented: “Chesterfield is very resilient and has consistently come out of national crises stronger than it went into them. In the last recession we established Destination Chesterfield, and this has reaped rewards. We also resolved as a council and with all our partners, to come out of the pandemic fighting and as a result a number of developments came out of the ground, including One Waterside Place and the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre.
“Chesterfield Brough Council and our partners will now work together with inward investors to ensure the next five years are as good as, if not better, than the last five years.”
“It was so pleasing to see such a large turnout for the Investment Summit. There is clearly a great deal of investor interest and enthusiasm from both within and outside the local area. Given our previous and current experience of assisting with the planning process, there is a willingness by the Council to help with business development, housing delivery and infrastructure enhancements, all of which will lead to longer term prosperity and hopefully a greener and more sustainable environment.
“Housing developers in particular are currently delivering the mix and range of property types which are meeting demand and addressing needs. It is clear that many adjoining Local Authority areas outside of Chesterfield are failing to deliver their housing needs and consequently the town is meeting not only its own local needs, but also attracting those from the wider area. The positive consequences for Chesterfield are significant, leading to greater spending power in the local economy, enhanced service provision, regeneration of urban areas and creating a vibrant community, something which can only be welcomed.”
Sarah Wills, Associate Director at Nineteen47 Ltd:
“It was great to be in the room for these discussions. I Really enjoyed hearing about priority projects and collaboration across sectors. It was lovely to hear how integral the Council see the private sector in terms of profile and delivery in the Chesterfield Borough, and we are proud to be a continued part of this conversation.”
Kriston Harvey, Director at Rodgers Leask:
“I think one of the biggest highlights would have to be the fact that following on from previous summits, where it has been great to hear about pipeline projects, we are now able to see these projects coming out of the ground and in some cases complete! Both the Enterprise Centre and One Waterside Place are fantastic examples of this and can hopefully be part of the catalyst to drive further regeneration and development.
“Having quality office space locally is clearly a benefit to the town also. This will help to retain businesses within Chesterfield and strengthen the local economy. It was also really good to hear that both the University of Derby and Chesterfield College have big plans – investing in the future generation is critical and it is great to see that there will be even more opportunities for people to stay in Chesterfield and develop new skills.”
Tony Buck, Associate Director at Oasis Studio:
“I always enjoy attending the Chesterfield Investment summit. It was great to see a full house of delegates in attendance, reflective of peoples’ interest in the future of the town. A range of engaging speakers provided a concise summary of all the present and future developments in the pipeline including good conversation around the recently completed office developments at the Waterside and Northern Gateway schemes. Looking ahead, it appears a number of regeneration projects as part of the Staveley Masterplan are taking shape, adding the plethora of opportunity for local business like ourselves.”
Addooco, the leading Managed IT, Cloud & Communications provider are excited to announce the recent appointment of Nigel Mallender as Head of Sales & Marketing.
Nigel joins Addooco to assist with their next phase of growth and brings with him over 20 years’ experience in the IT solutions sector.
He commented: “Having worked for my previous employer for nearly 24 years it felt like the right time for a new challenge and change. I took my time to find the right opportunity and business.”
Nigel went on to add: “and it was only through a chance meeting with Paul Walters, Head of Operations, I learned of this position and Addooco’s ambitious plans for the future. I’m very much looking forward to being part of the Team and I’m confident this will prove a great fit for all.”
Nigel hails from Yorkshire but has lived in Chesterfield for 25 years. He is married with a young daughter, works for a charity part time and is Chairman of Chesterfield Cricket Club.
Richard Walters, Addooco’s Managing Director commented on Nigel’s arrival: “We’ve known Nigel for a number of years and are thrilled to welcome him to our Management Team. Nigel is an experienced individual and a people person who appreciates the importance of building relationships and developing a client base. That’s exactly what we were looking for”.
Addooco is based on Dunston Technology Park in Chesterfield and have been delivering cutting edge IT solutions since 2008. To find out more please call 01246 887887 or visit their website – www.addooco.it
The company supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
A moving tribute to miners who died in 3 disasters at a Derbyshire colliery has been completed 10 years after it was commissioned.
The final 13 life-size steel figures have been unveiled as part of the Walking Together Mining Memorial, taking the total number of statues to commemorate those tragically killed at Markham Colliery to 106 – one for each man who died in the disasters.
Originally commissioned in 2012, the figures form a trail which stretches between the village of Duckmanton, near Chesterfield, to Markham Vale, close to where the former pithead of Markham Colliery once stood.
Markham Vale is the council’s flagship regeneration site reclaimed and developed in partnership with HBD (formally known as Henry Boot Developments) to create new jobs and attract investment into the area.
The trail symbolises a miner’s journey to the pit and back home again and each figure carries a tag with the name of one of the miners, along with their age and job role.
Cheshire-based Artist Stephen Broadbent designed the memorial supported by Markham Vale Heritage Group which researched the lives of the miners who were commemorated.
Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Clean Growth and Regeneration, Councillor Tony King, said: “I feel honoured to have been part of this fantastic project and it’s great to see it finally completed.
“It’s incredibly important that we don’t forget the site’s mining history, the challenging jobs the pit workers had and the sacrifices they made.
“This permanent memorial is a place where the miner’s community spirit can be remembered and where families, friends and future generations can come together to pay tribute.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in the project including the local community, the families and friends of the miners who tragically lost their lives and the sponsors who have helped make this project possible.
“I would also like to thank the artist Stephen Broadbent, fabricator at CB Arts, the team at Beam and the Markham Vale Heritage Group for all their fantastic work.”
The first disaster commemorated by the memorial was an underground explosion on 21 January 1937 which claimed the lives of 9 men. This was followed by a second explosion a year later in 1938 when 79 miners lost their lives and 40 were seriously injured.
The final disaster occurred 35 years later when the mechanical brake on a lift carrying miners to the coalface failed, killing 18 miners and seriously injuring 11 others on 30 July, 1973.
The final 13 figures have been dedicated to:
David Bann, 54, Contractor
Alfred Garland, 52, Timber Drawer
Robert Gregson, 36, Contractor
John William Hadley, 31, Contractor
Joseph Hibbard, 51, Timber Drawer
Joseph Lilley, 30, Road Repairer
Felix Linathan, 48, Contractor
Mark Richards, 31, Ripper
Samuel Edward Salt, 41, Deputy
Clarence Silcock, 42, Ripper
Fred Taylor, 53, Contractor
Redvers Baden Whitehead, 37, Shot-firer
Matthew Williams, 36, Contractor
A grant of £17,830 has been awarded by Valencia Communities Fund through the Landfill Communities Fund to support and install 8 out of the 13 remaining figures.
Great Bear Distribution Limited sponsored three figures, while a further grant of £38,950 was awarded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, which distributes funding raised by National Lottery players. The further grant will cover the cost of 1 figure and fund several activities, including engagement workshops with the local community, a commemorative publication, heritage walking tours of the site and more.
For more information about the memorial visit The Markham Story Mine website. The Story Mine project is supported by The Heritage Lottery Fund and ourselves to unearth and share stories from Markham Colliery.
Anyone interested in joining the volunteers at Markham Vale Heritage Group can email contact@beam.uk.net
East Midlands Chamber has secured one of the most significant accolades in business after being named the UK Chamber of the Year.
The chamber of commerce for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire was recognised for supporting businesses to engage with the environmental, social and governance (ESG) agenda as it took the top prize at the British of Chamber of Commerce’s (BCC) annual Chamber Business Awards, sponsored by Quest. There are 53 accredited chambers of commerce in the UK.
Judges said East Midlands Chamber succeeded in striking a good geographical balance across its membership base, serving more than 4,000 businesses across the three counties. Its strength in the areas of diversity and environmental sustainability also stood out as particularly impressive.
East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “We are delighted to receive such recognition and this award is testament to the hard work of the whole Chamber team over the past few years in supporting businesses through one of the most challenging periods in memory.
“We have always sought to provide a comprehensive offer in supporting our members through whatever the world throws at us. During the Covid-19 pandemic, we pivoted our service online with a focus on business resilience and took advantage of opportunities such as the Kickstart Scheme to become the UK’s biggest gateway provider.
“This approach has continued to evolve within a hybrid delivery model as we seek to help guide members through the important business issues of today and tomorrow – including the rapidly-growing ESG agenda, which comprises a commitment to net zero, a diverse and inclusive workforce, and building relationships with communities.
“As new opportunities come forward, we will continue to be at the forefront in ensuring our members are at the leading edge of new business trends, while flying the flag for the East Midlands in order to help attract new investment and grow our region’s economy.”
The Chamber’s achievements in recent years have included:
Providing a £100,000 membership relief fund during the pandemic and helping 982 businesses to access Covid-19 funds valued at £1.4m
Supporting 902 businesses to fill 2,093 placements in the Kickstart Scheme, which created work placements for 16 to 24-year-olds, with 81% of participants securing a job, or returning to further or higher education
Leading a Digital High Street project supporting 322 retailers to improve their digital offering
Supporting 700 exporters and 200 importers annually via the international trade service
Establishing a Sustainable East Midlands initiative to collate practical advice that supports members on their net zero journey, holding 26 events that attracted more than 1,000 delegates in 2021/22
Launching a free ESG toolkit in partnership with RSM UK for members
Being an exemplar to businesses in developing a diverse and inclusive workforce by achieving Disability Confident Leader status, leading a prison employment advisory board, signing a menopause workplace pledge and “Time to Change” pledge, and supporting the Midlands Mental Health Productivity Pilot.
The Chamber Business Awards, now in its 19th year, is one of the showpieces of the business calendar, highlighting the role that chambers of commerce play in assisting firms to deliver growth and prosperity for the UK and local communities.
The awards provide an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the achievements of the Chamber Network, and the vital support chambers provide to businesses.
Sarah Howard, chair of the BCC, said: “The East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) is an extremely worthy winner of this award.
“The Chamber’s commitment to sustainability and net zero ambitions is paving the way for other chambers to follow in the fight against the climate crisis.
“Running a successful and vibrant chamber of commerce, with its members’ interests at the core, is no easy task and I want to congratulate all members of the East Midlands Chamber team for their hard work and dedication.”
Steve Charles, head of business partnerships at Quest added: “Congratulations to East Midlands Chamber, a worthy winner of the Chamber of the Year award.
“A strong financial performance enabled it to offer a wide range of support to members including Kickstart, in particular during the pandemic.
“It has led the way on helping members build a diverse and inclusive workforce, as well as meeting their net zero targets. It also has an exciting investment strategy to help it offer even more support to members in the future. Well done.”
Of the 15 award categories,10 of the winners were first-time finalists and five of the winning businesses have only opened in the past two years.
A total of 34 businesses, individuals and developments were shortlisted across the 15 categories in the annual awards, but it was Master Debonair, Sicily Restaurant and Great2Grow – part of Great2, that took the headline awards this year – Retailer of the Year, Restaurant of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year respectively.
All three businesses were established in Chesterfield less than 30 months ago.
Last year Sicily Restaurant scooped the title of Best New Hospitality Business with owner Giuseppe Barone stealing the show when he proposed on stage to his partner Monica Sardisco.
Founded in 2019, Sicily Restaurant, which is based on Sheffield Road, is rated as the number one restaurant in Chesterfield on TripAdvisor. Commenting on this year’s award win co-owner Monica Sardisco said: “We’re a family business and we try to do the best we can, always working hard. Last year we won Best New Hospitality Business at the Love Chesterfield Awards, and this award proves that we have improved further. We are very happy to win the award.”
Winner of the Retailer of the Year Award, menswear store Master Debonair opened its Chatsworth Road branch in 2019. Although the third store for the company, it is the first outside the North East where it also has stores in Sunderland and East Boldon.
Delighted to win the award Simon Whittaker, CEO, Master Debonair, said: “We’re always looking for new locations that have other independents around and Chesterfield fitted the bill for us when we decided to invest here. There were some fantastic independent businesses shortlisted in our category so we’re very humbled to win.”
Brand new business Great2Grow – part of the Great2 Group, a provider of co-working space and business support services, secured this year’s Entrepreneur of the Year title. The award recognises the achievement, leadership, vision and success of new sole traders and limited companies in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
In addition to the prestigious title, Great2Grow also received 10 hours free mentoring with the award’s sponsor, Banner Jones Solicitors. Great2Grow will receive a year of marketing support through Chesterfield Champions with Destination Chesterfield covering the contribution cost for a financial year.
Andy Ball, founder of Great2Grow, said: “We’re excited, surprised and shocked to win such a great accolade; it rubber stamps what we’re doing. As a growth consultancy it shows we’re leading the charge with what we do. The next stage is to open an additional office in another great location in the East Midlands.”
EastEnders icon and household name Shaun Williamson hosted the sell-out black-tie event at the Winding Wheel Theatre on Wednesday 12 October.
Speaking at the awards Cllr Amanda Serjeant, Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield said:
“The finalists and winners of this year’s Love Chesterfield Awards are testament that our hard work is paying off. The awards were a true celebration of independent businesses.
“Since 2013, Destination Chesterfield has worked tirelessly to raise the profile of businesses in our town. Between April 2021 and May 2022, more than 35 independent businesses invested in the town centre. Their confidence in Chesterfield, together with ongoing investment, is helping to ensure that we have a town centre that meets the needs of a new generation of shopper and visitor. It is wonderful to see so many small businesses thriving in Chesterfield.”
More than 250 people attended the celebration which was organised by Destination Chesterfield and sponsored by EntireFM – Complete Facilities Management.
Winners of the 2022 Love Chesterfield Awards categories include:
Best New High Street Business – Sponsored by SMH Group
MD Hair
Michelle Dalman, owner, MD Hair: “It feels absolutely amazing to win the award. I am so proud of my team and myself. The team have been key to winning the award. They make sure everyone has an amazing experience when they come into the salon.”
Excellence in Customer Service – Sponsored by Peak Pharmacy
Il Mondo Travel
Jo Bunting, owner of Il Mondo Travel, said: “It’s been a tough few years for us and the travel industry, so this is a great award for us to win.”
Independent High Street Business
Blanc and Blanc Occasions
Anne-Marie White, owner, Blanc and Blanc Occasions, said: “It feels absolutely amazing to be voted for by our customers for the Independent High Street Business award. Being an independent means we can source the best brands from around the world and offer a very personal service.”
Retailer of the Year – Sponsored by East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire)
Master Debonair
Simon Whittaker, CEO, Master Debonair, said: “We’re always looking for new locations that have other independents around and Chesterfield fitted the bill for us when we decided to invest here. There were some fantastic independent businesses shortlisted in our category so we’re very humbled to win.”
Market Trader of the Year – Sponsored by Chesterfield Borough Council
Ibbotson’s Fresh Quality Produce
Cllr Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy, who presented the award said: “The market is the beating heart of our town. Ibbotson’s is a second-generation market trader, so it is wonderful they have won this award for the second year running. There are so many good traders on the market so to win this award is testament to Nick Ibbotson and his team for their customer service.”
Best New Hospitality Business
Host Coffee
Christian O’Connell, owner, Host Coffee said: “We had a vision for the business in Clay Cross when we established it, so to pull it off and win this award is a great feeling. The team, our customer service and consistency of product brings people back to us. We’re going to keep doing what we’re doing.”
Restaurant of the Year – Sponsored by Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management
Sicily Restaurant
Monica Sardisco, owner, Sicily Restaurant, said: “We’re a family business and we try to do the best we can, always working hard. Last year we won Best New Hospitality Business at the Love Chesterfield Awards and this award proves that we have improved further. We are very happy to win the award.”
Café of the Year
Koo
Gemma Taylor-Murdoch, owner, Koo, said: “I feel on top of the world to win Café of the Year. The team put blood, sweat and tears into delivering the best service to our customers and making sure they all have a lovely experience with us.”
Pub/Bar of the Year – Sponsored by Shorts Accountants
Junction Bar
Michael Walker, owner, Junction Bar, said: “We’re absolutely buzzing to win the award. We’ve been in Chesterfield for six years and we’ve absolutely smashed it – this award proves it. We have an amazing team and they keep customers coming back.”
Accessibility Award – Sponsored by Spirecross Ltd
The Café at Northern Tea Merchants
Kim Lamin, Owner, The Café at Northern Tea Merchants, said: “I’m really proud to win the award. We are very keen to make the café as accessible as possible to all our customers to ensure they have the best experience and a warm welcome when they visit us.”
Food Producer of the Year – Sponsored by MSE Hiller
Resting Devil Brewery
Josh Clarke, owner and brewer, Resting Devil Brewery, said: “To win the award feels fantastic as we’ve only been going seven months. Quality and consistency are at the heart of everything we do. We now want to slowly expand and get our beer into shops and stores.”
Regeneration Award – Sponsored by BHP Accountants
Badger Croft (Led by Henry Boot Construction)
Graham Johnson, Site Manager, Badger Croft, said: “Henry Boot does a lot of projects around the borough, but Badger Croft has been something special. We have given people new sustainable and energy efficient homes to live in for many years to come.”
Apprentice of the Year – Sponsored by DBC Training
Will Brooks (Superior Wellness)
Will Brooks, Apprentice at Superior Wellness, said: “I’m very proud to win the award. One of the things that made me choose an apprenticeship was the experience and freedom you get compared to university. It’s the best choice I made.”
Sarah Elphick, Head of Marketing, Superior Wellness, added: “Will really impressed us when he covered the role of two marketing executives who left the company. Senior managers and colleagues all noticed how he stepped up to the role and took it in his stride. Because of Will’s success in the business, we’ve recruited two further apprentices. It’s a great way for young people to start their career.”
Entrepreneur of the Year – Sponsored by Banner Jones Solicitors
Great2Grow – part of Great 2 Group
Andy Ball, founder of Great2Grow said: “We’re excited, surprised and shocked to win such a great accolade; it rubber stamps what we’re doing. As a growth consultancy it shows we’re leading the charge with what we do. The next stage is to open an additional office in another great location in the East Midlands.”
Sustainability Award – Sponsored by Chesterfield Borough Council
Northern Tea Merchants
James Pogson, Director, Northern Tea Merchants, said: “I am absolutely thrilled to win the award. We have put so much effort into our journey to becoming sustainable, so to be recognised for it is wonderful. Since committing to becoming more sustainable we have already offset over 500 tonnes of carbon dioxide created just from the cultivation of the tea, coffee and cocoa that we sell. This award is the first step of our ongoing sustainability journey.”
The 2022 Love Chesterfield Awards were supported and made possible by a number of sponsors and partners, including: Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management, Banner Jones Solicitors, BHP Accountants, Business Wise Accountancy and Tax, Chesterfield Borough Council, DBCP, DBC Training, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), Elder Way, Great2, Hoods Florist, JP Fire Safety Solutions, Minuteman Press Chesterfield, MSE Hiller, Peak Pharmacy, Shorts Chartered Accountants, Spirecross Ltd and SMH Group.
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