Business

Highlight Crafts joins Hobbycraft TV

10th September 2025

Highlight Crafts has announced its inclusion in the launch of Hobbycraft TV, a brand-new platform dedicated to daily, demonstration-led content from expert crafters across the UK. The channel officially launched on Thursday 4th September, with Highlight Crafts making its debut at 10:30am.

As a Derbyshire-based business rooted in creativity and community, Highlight Crafts is thrilled to be part of this exciting new chapter in the crafting industry. Hobbycraft TV brings together leading brands and makers to deliver inspiring, accessible content to crafters of all levels and Highlight Crafts is at the heart of it.

“At Highlight Crafts, community is at the heart of everything we do it’s what inspires us, drives us, and connects us,” said Diane Peternel, Sales and Marketing Director at Highlight Crafts. “We are thrilled to be part of a channel that also puts community first, creating a space where inspiration and creativity can be shared every single day.”

The partnership will see Highlight Crafts deliver regular shows on Hobbycraft TV, showcasing innovative products, expert techniques, and creative projects designed to spark imagination and build confidence. The team will continue to run their popular LiveShopping Shows as usual, ensuring their loyal audience can still enjoy the same trusted content alongside this exciting new venture.

Steven Hubbard, Board Advisor for Hobbycraft, added: “It’s such an exciting time to be in the crafting industry. Hobbycraft TV enhances our customer experience and builds our community with an array of experts and brands bringing daily innovation to all our makers. We are extremely excited to be partnering with Stephanie Weightman and all of her inspirational team at Highlight Crafts.”

You can watch Hobbycraft TV on:

Freeview Channel 97
hobbycraft.co.uk/tv
YouTube.com/hobbycraft
Red Button on connected TVs

Enjoy Highlight Crafts LiveShopping shows at:

highlightcrafts.com/liveshopping
YouTube.com/highlightcrafts
Follow on social media for updates and show times

Highlight Crafts supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Italian restaurant Giorgio’s relaunches as il Forno

10th September 2025

A much-loved Chesterfield restaurant is entering an exciting new chapter. Giorgio’s, located on Whittington Moor, will relaunch this September as il Forno.

The name that pays tribute to its Italian roots and the wood-fired oven that has long been the heart of its kitchen. While the name and interiors are evolving, the essence of the restaurant remains unchanged. The same talented chef and dedicated team who’ve built Giorgio’s reputation over the past decade will continue to serve the dishes locals know and love.

“We as a family are incredibly proud of what we’ve built as Giorgio’s over the past 10+ years,” said owner Fran Montero. “But il Forno feels like the perfect new chapter, a name that honours our history while reflecting what makes us truly special: our wood pizza oven. We can’t wait to welcome both our loyal customers and new diners.”

Inside, diners can expect a refreshed, modern look while retaining the warm, welcoming atmosphere that has made the restaurant a community favourite. The front of the restaurant will undergo further improvements in the coming weeks, completing the transformation.

The menu will continue to feature Giorgio’s most popular dishes, especially its celebrated pizzas. A few new additions will enhance the dining experience, but the popular half-price pizza and pasta offer will remain unchanged.

“After so many wonderful years, we’re simply refreshing and modernising, while keeping everything that’s made us a favourite with our community,” Fran added.

il Forno will continue to serve as a vibrant hub for residents, offering authentic Italian cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting.

The rebrand marks a new era for the restaurant, reinforcing its commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation. The restaurant will reopen to the public on Saturday, 13th September.

Looking for more ideas of places to eat and drink in Chesterfield, check out https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/2025/07/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Leisure, Visiting

Travelodge invests in Chesterfield as part of national expansion strategy

9th September 2025

Travelodge has announced the acquisition of a Chesterfield hotel, reinforcing its commitment to growth and rebranding across the UK.

The hotel, formerly operated under the Ibis brand, is one of four newly acquired sites by Travelodge, alongside locations in Preston, Bradford Shipley and Cardiff. The move is part of the company’s wider UK strategy to convert existing hotels into Travelodge-branded properties, bringing the total number of rebranded acquisitions this year to 16.

Located within walking distance of Chesterfield town centre and railway station, the 86-room hotel offers convenient access to local attractions including the Pomegranate Theatre, Chesterfield Museum, and the nearby Peak District. It is also just a short drive from Chatsworth House, making it an ideal base for both leisure and business travellers.

The hotel will undergo a full refurbishment later this year as part of Travelodge’s multi-million pound upgrade programme. The refit will introduce the brand’s latest design standards, including a contemporary reception area, next-generation rooms, and enhanced interiors focused on comfort and functionality.

“These acquisitions are another strong addition to our UK portfolio and demonstrate the continued momentum behind our rebrand-led growth strategy,” said Steve Bennett, Chief Property and Development Officer at Travelodge. “We’re seeing increasing opportunities to convert well-located, existing hotels into Travelodges.

Travelodge’s investment reflects confidence in Chesterfield’s visitor economy and its strategic location as a base to visit the Peak District. The company has identified over 300 further locations across the UK for future expansion, with Chesterfield’s inclusion underscoring its appeal to national operators.

The rebrand is expected to enhance the town’s accommodation offering, supporting the town’s wider ambitions to grow tourism and business travel.

This investment showcases confidence in Chesterfield town centre, alongside other recent investments for residential, commercial and retail activity, including:

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Industrial park in Chesterfield to be auctioned

8th September 2025

Derbyshire County Council’s 29,000 sq ft Cobnar Wood Close industrial units development in Chesterfield is to go up for auction this month with a £1.35m guide price.

SDL Property Auctions, part of Eddisons, has been appointed to sell the 12-unit development, which is home to businesses such as industrial pumps distributor Applied Pumps, on behalf of the local authority. The units will be included in the auctioneer’s next live-streamed property auction on 25 September.

Cobnar Wood Industrial Units, which currently generate a total rental income of £160,000, set to rise to £170,000 next year, are located next to Chesterfield Trading Estate on the A61, four miles from Chesterfield and 10 miles from Sheffield.

Andrew Parker, partner and auctioneer at SDL Property Auctions said: “Like many local authorities, Derbyshire County Council is reviewing its property portfolio as part of wider financial pressures. Cobnar Wood is a solid industrial investment with a healthy mix of tenants, and its location close to Chesterfield and Sheffield makes it particularly attractive.

“We’re seeing strong demand for well-located industrial space across Derbyshire and South Yorkshire and, with rental income already secured and due to increase, this site is well placed to benefit from that trend. We expect it to generate keen interest at auction later this month.”

For more information about Cobnar Wood Industrial Units, or to register to bid remotely online, by phone or by proxy, visit sdlauctions.co.uk.

Discover more about available commercial property in Chesterfield

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Seven ways to grow your business this September

4th September 2025

Ready to get back on it and grow your business?

Hopefully, you feel refreshed after a well-deserved summer break. Now, it’s time to accelerate growth, reconnect with customers and plan for the final quarter.

September is a time to refocus and reignite your strategy for the rest of this year and beyond.

But you’re not alone in this journey. Chesterfield’s vibrant business community offers a wide range of support to help local companies thrive.

Whether you’re a start-up or an established company, an independent trader or a global exporter, we want to ensure you have the tools, resources, and connections to achieve your goals.

Here are seven ways to grow your business in Chesterfield this autumn.

1. Innovate and make efficiencies with advice and funding

Keen to innovate but unsure where to start? Get in touch for a free one-to-one business review from the Chesterfield Innovation Support Programme, covering next steps, funding advice and workshop recommendations.

If you’ve wanted to update your tech or processes for a while, but held off due to funding, now is the time to apply for growth vouchers through the Derbyshire Accelerator project. The funding offers up to £2,000 of specialist training or consultancy support in any area where you can demonstrate that new functionality or processes will support growth in your business.

Some examples of where you might benefit include:

CRM
AI
Websites and E-commerce
Finance
HR & Employment Law
Leadership & Management
Marketing Strategy and Operations
Sales and Social Media

High-performing businesses can also access support and funding for innovation (and talent) through the High Growth Accelerator project. Chesterfield and Derbyshire businesses must have achieved at least 20% annual growth in revenue, employment, or market share over each of the past three years.

Chesterfield Innovation Support Programme is operated by Chesterfield Borough Council with funding from East Midlands Combined County Authority. Accelerator projects are funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by East Midlands Chamber. Submit your details to be referred to the most appropriate expert for your business.

2. Boost your talent with the latest knowledge about skills

Chesterfield’s Skills Brokerage Service offers free advice to identify workforce development needs. Services include:

Assessing training and skills gaps
Accessing funding
Securing apprenticeship support
Developing talent pipelines

Some of the current courses with funding available include digital skills and marketing, management, team leading, English and Maths, green skills, and property and construction.

High-growth businesses can access talent grants to help grow sustainably at scale. Support includes a range of high-growth workshops and forums. To be eligible, Chesterfield and Derbyshire businesses must have achieved at least 20% annual growth in revenue, employment, or market share over each of the past three years.

Submit your details for a referral to the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service.

3. Make global trade easier with advice, support and funding

The Chamber has launched the East Midlands International Trade Network, with the first local meeting taking place in Clowne in autumn 2025. The chaired forum includes support, advice from industry experts and peers, and opportunities to shape the development and delivery of the Export Accelerator project.

The first forum meeting follows the success of the Export Accelerator project, which launched in the spring and has so far helped almost 230 businesses navigate the complexities of international trade. The project supports initial research, the launch of a product or service to a new overseas market and more.

“The Chamber’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey for the East Midlands revealed a 10% drop in overseas sales and 3% in orders,” says Deputy Chief Executire, Diane Beresford, “which really underlines the extent of the challenges when exporting overseas so it’s no surprise that take-up of the Export Accelerator grants and training bursaries has been so high.

“We have some brilliant examples of businesses tapping into consultancy support in areas such as CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) and attending tradeshows as far afield as Japan. If they haven’t already, I’d urge businesses to sign up for the forum meetings in September to find out about the wide range of services to boost their overseas trade.”

Grant funding of up to £8,000 is available for specialist consultancy, overseas trade show visits, salaries and equipment. Along with fully funded workshops and webinars, there is the opportunity to apply for a £2,000 bursary, which can be used to attend one of the Chamber’s International Trade training courses, including its flagship BCC-Accredited International Trade Operations and Procedures qualification.

The Accelerator project is delivered by East Midlands Chamber on behalf of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA). Submit your details for a referral to a Chamber business adviser.

4. Attend business events and workshops

Businesses across Chesterfield are keen to support others by sharing their knowledge and expertise by hosting workshops, webinars and events in the area. In addition, East Midlands Chamber, Chesterfield Borough Council, and the University of Derby host regular events across a wide range of topics, all aimed at supporting business development and growth.

Keep up-to-date on all the latest business events in our area at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/events/

Is your business hosting an event in Chesterfield or North Derbyshire? We would love to hear from you to help spread the word. Email info@chesterfield.co.uk with the details.

5. Join our community of Chesterfield Champions

Do you love Chesterfield? Do you want to support our town’s growth whilst growing your own business? Consider becoming a Chesterfield Champion to help promote our place as a destination to invest, work, live and visit.

As well as being a CSR opportunity, becoming a Chesterfield Champion offers marketing and relationship-building opportunities. It includes a business profile, events and media opportunities.

If you’re passionate about supporting the town, email Tara.underhill@chesterfield.co.uk to learn more.

Need specific support or advice to grow your business? Our directory of Chesterfield Champions provides details to bolster your business. It includes businesses, consultants and service providers which specialise in the following sectors:

Professional services, business advice & HR
Skills, education and recruitment
Visitor economy
Creative and digital
Healthcare and public
Charities
Financial and legal
Food, drink and retail
Export, wholesale and distribution
Manufacturing and engineering
Property and construction
Marketing, media and PR

So, if you need support or a particular area of expertise, we recommend you choose one of Chesterfield’s friendly, down-to-earth and honest businesses. We’re all in it together.

6. Promote your business through awards

Gain recognition by entering local, regional, or national awards. We are keen to celebrate success stories and promote award-winning businesses.

Whether you excel in innovation, customer service, or sustainability, awards showcase your strengths. Explore award opportunities and promote your business via the dedicated Chesterfield awards page.

Did you know there is a business in Chesterfield dedicated to supporting companies with award applications and nominations? Find out more at: https://pureawards.co.uk/

7. Share your successes in local media

Another way you can promote your business is by sharing your latest successes in the form of a press release or news story.

Has your business recently expanded or moved to a new premises? Maybe you have taken on new staff members or apprentices? If your business has experienced growth, launched an innovative new product or collaborated with another local business, we want to hear about it!

Please submit your press release or details of your positive news to Alex.Baddley@chesterfield.co.uk.

You can also submit news online to the Derbyshire Times for consideration by visiting the YourWorld website.

Wondering how to structure your press release, or wondering what information to include? Take a look at this useful guide.

Get in touch

For more information on the topics mentioned, email info@chesterfield.co.uk or complete our form for a referral to the most appropriate support.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Skills, UncategorisedTagged in business funding, business grants, business news, business support, Chesterfield business advice, Chesterfield business funding, chesterfield business news, chesterfield business support, Chesterfield business support 2025, Chesterfield skills support, Destination Chesterfield

Planning approved for Eyres building redevelopment

3rd September 2025

Plans to redevelop the former Eyres furniture store in Chesterfield town centre have been approved.

A local developer will transform the former store into 20 apartments and 10 commercial units, starting from 500 sq ft.

The Eyres building holds deep historical value in Chesterfield. The developers aim to honour its legacy while giving the space a fresh purpose.

Jamal Khan, Lettings Director at Highgates, said: “We’re proud to market the ground-floor units. As an independent business, we understand how vital it is to support local entrepreneurs and help them grow in Chesterfield.”

“This mixed-use design makes smarter use of the site and helps build a vibrant, sustainable local economy. New residents will live directly above revitalised shops, creating a lively community hub.”

“This project shows strong confidence in Chesterfield’s property market. Demand remains high for well-located homes and retail spaces. With attractive lease terms and incentives, the development offers a great opportunity for local businesses.”

Work is expected to start shortly to prepare the retail units at the former Eyres Furniture Store.

For more details on the available units, contact Highgates Sales & Lettings at info@highgatesestates.co.uk or call 0114 312 4994.

This latest announcement follows a range of investments and openings in Chesterfield town centre recently, which include:

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield Town Centre

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Why Chesterfield works: A thriving hub for business, talent and growth

3rd September 2025

Chesterfield is an attractive place to start, grow and invest. With its strategic location, strong talent pipeline, collaborative business culture and proactive support infrastructure, our town is proving that size is no barrier to ambition.

The recent Destination Chesterfield Round Table discussion, conducted in collaboration with the Derbyshire Times, brought together several Chesterfield Champions to discuss the strengths of being located in Chesterfield.

They came up with five compelling reasons.

1. Location, location, location

Ask any local business leader what makes Chesterfield work, and the answer is often the same: location.
“We’re slap bang in the middle of everything,” said Gareth Dillon of Killingley. “We do business in Sheffield, Derby, York and Leeds, but we wouldn’t dream of relocating. Chesterfield gives us access to major cities without the cost or congestion.”

Alberto Naso of Geeks Headquarters agrees: “We host national events and tournaments, and Chesterfield’s central position is perfect. People travel from Scotland and London to attend, and they stay, eat, and explore the town while they’re here.”

2. A loyal, skilled workforce

In Chesterfield, our town’s work ethic is a point of pride.

“Our business couldn’t have survived without the old-fashioned working-class philosophy,” said Gareth Dillon. “We don’t struggle to find people who know what graft is. That backbone of loyalty and hard work is still here.”

Apprenticeships are a key part of the talent pipeline. Luke Catt of SMH Group highlighted the role of Chesterfield College: “All our apprentices come through the college. We’ve trained people in accountancy, legal services, mortgage advice and more.”

Richard Sherwood of Roy Peters Estates shared a personal success story: “Our apprentice George just passed his Level 3 with distinctions. He’s smart, punctual, polite, the kind of person you trust with a million-pound house. That’s the quality we find here.”

3. Collaboration and Community

Chesterfield’s business culture is built on relationships. From local suppliers to professional services, there’s a strong commitment to keeping business local.

“I want to work with smaller entities,” said Gareth Dillon. “If I need a designer, I want Mr Smith of Smiths Design in my office, not a faceless national firm. Chesterfield gives us that.”

Luke Catt added, “It’s easy to lose that face-to-face connection in today’s digital world. Through Destination Chesterfield and local events, we keep those relationships alive. It’s our duty as businesses to support each other.”

4. Support that makes a difference

Behind Chesterfield’s business success is a robust support infrastructure. From startup grants to skills development, our town offers more than most.

Peter Lawrence of East Midlands Chamber praised the town’s free skills brokerage service: “It’s a huge asset. Businesses get help with recruitment, training, and succession planning, from apprenticeships to management development.”
He also highlighted Chesterfield’s proactive approach to funding: “Compared to similar towns, Chesterfield offers significantly more support. I’ve seen £10,000 growth grants here versus £2,000 elsewhere. That commitment to business growth is real.”

Gillian Scotford of Accessible Derbyshire echoed the sentiment: “Business support here is sensible and personal. Adrian Williams from Chesterfield Borough Council’s Innovation Support Project helped me think about where I’m going and what I want. That kind of guidance is invaluable.”

5. Affordability and opportunity

Chesterfield offers the best of both worlds: access to major markets and a lower cost base.

“Our overheads are significantly less than if we were based elsewhere,” said Gareth Dillon. “That gives us a competitive edge, and it’s why we stay.”

Our town’s regeneration projects, including the canal corridor and town centre developments, are creating new opportunities for investment and growth.

“There’s a lot of positivity here,” said Peter Lawrence. “From international trade to local startups, Chesterfield is on a strong trajectory. The future is bright.”

Get the support you need to invest and grow your business in Chesterfield

Chesterfield isn’t just a place to do business, it’s a place to build a future. With its skilled workforce, collaborative spirit and strategic location, it offers everything a company needs to succeed.

Whether you’re a startup looking for support, an established firm seeking growth, or an investor exploring new opportunities, Chesterfield is ready to welcome you.

Find business support and advice: chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support

Explore commercial property opportunities: chesterfield.co.uk/business/commercial-property-search

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home

Chesterfield hotel’s survey reveals what delegates really want from business events

1st September 2025

Casa Hotel in Chesterfield has marked its 15th anniversary and the arrival of its 370,000th guest with a national survey of 1,500 professionals, offering valuable insights into what delegates truly value at corporate events.

Delegates want great food, meaningful networking, and hassle-free logistics. They’re turned off by jargon, long travel times, and packed schedules.

Networking and team building were rated the top benefit by 36% of respondents, followed by food and venue quality (27%). Travel and logistics were the biggest frustrations, with 27% citing long journeys and parking issues as their primary concerns.

Nearly one in five said corporate jargon was a major turn-off.

The survey also highlighted five key trends shaping business events in 2025: networking remains the top draw, food is a dealbreaker, wellbeing is increasingly important, jargon is out, and convenience is non-negotiable.

Casa Hotel’s facilities reflect many of these preferences. With purpose-built meeting rooms, on-site dining, and easy access to Chesterfield station and the M1, the hotel continues to support the town’s reputation as a business events destination. Its Cocina restaurant serves locally sourced food from Walton Lodge Farm, and its events team works closely with organisers to deliver tailored experiences.

Founder Steve Perez said: “When I couldn’t find a premium hotel in the Midlands that met my business needs, I decided to build one. Fifteen years later, this survey shows that the fundamentals haven’t changed; people still want good food, comfort, and convenience. But they also want a human touch: fewer buzzwords, better logistics, and events that feel energising rather than draining.”

These insights align with Chesterfield’s growing profile as a location for business events, conferences and corporate hospitality. From heritage venues to modern facilities, the town offers a diverse range of settings for professional gatherings. For more on upcoming events and training, visit Chesterfield Business Events.

Casa Hotel is part of the Chesterfield Champions. The network plays a vital role in promoting the town’s strengths and supporting collaboration across sectors. With over 200 organisations involved, the network brings together businesses, charities, education providers and public sector partners who are passionate about Chesterfield’s future. Champions help share success stories, attract investment, and showcase the town as a great place to live, work, visit and do business. This is supported by a business event programme including regular events, round tables and forums.

To find out more or become a Champion, visit Chesterfield Champions.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home

New Oak Estates recognised in best estate agent guide 2025

29th August 2025

New Oak Estates has been identified as one of the top estate agents in the UK and features in the Best Estate Agent Guide 2025

The Best Estate Agent Guide was created to help sellers and landlords find the top agents in their area. Each year, the Guide is compiled following a rigorous assessment which analyses more than 11,300 agents against criteria which matter most to homeowners, including property marketing, customer service, and results.

This year, New Oak Estates was among the winners, taking home a Gold Award

“We are delighted to have been included in the Best Estate Agent Guide 2025.” Paul Flitter, New Oak Estates Director, said. “This industry-wide assessment rewards the agents who meet the very highest standards, and we are thrilled to have been recognised within the Guide as one of the best in the UK for the second year running!

Chesterfield continues to be recognised as a great place to live. Recently named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, the historic Derbyshire market town is drawing attention for all the right reasons.

Chesterfield has also been recognised as one of the greenest towns in the UK, with over 95% of homes having access to private or nearby outdoor space, including Queens Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, and the Chesterfield Canal. Thanks to its excellent schools, strong community spirit, and access to nature, it consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

Ryan Wilkes, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “We’re very pleased to see Chesterfield gaining further recognition as a great place to live. “If you’re looking to live in an area which blends a strong heritage with strong local amenities within easy reach, Chesterfield is a place that you’ll be proud to call home.”

Find out more about living in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Property and Construction

Business awards success for Chesterfield Champions

28th August 2025

Chesterfield’s business community is proving its strength this summer, with a series of business award wins and shortlists placing local firms in the spotlight.

Mortgage 1st, Roy Peters Estates, and CMP Legal, all Chesterfield Champions, have received major recognition for their innovation, leadership, and community impact.

Together, their successes showcase the talent and ambition fuelling the town’s economy.

Mortgage 1st – Industry leadership and community impact

Mortgage 1st, a Chesterfield-based brokerage, is celebrating an outstanding summer, earning national titles and local recognition.

In June, the firm was crowned Mortgage Broker of the Year (11–50 advisers) at the Financial Reporter Broker’s Choice Awards, winning for the third consecutive year.

The following month, Managing Director Jon Stones was named Business Leader of the Year at the prestigious British Mortgage Awards, praised for his people-first culture and ambitious leadership. Regarded as one of the industry’s most respected events, the awards are often called ‘the Oscars of the mortgage world’.

That same month, Mortgage 1st also received the Business Community Award at the Bolsover Place Programme anniversary event, recognising its inspiring work with schools and young people.

Adding to the celebrations, three team members are finalists in the Women’s Recognition Awards this October:

Lisa Stones, Operations Director – Women in the Mortgage Industry
Hayley Port, Mortgage & Protection Adviser – Protection Adviser of the Year
Nicola Hardy, Senior Specialist Adviser – Specialist Lending Adviser of the Year

Judges praised Jon’s leadership, stating: “A really close category of exceptional leaders, but Jon stood out with a business performance that demonstrated growth and diversification, a culture that focuses on people before results, and an ambition and commitment to his firm and market that was really impressive.”

“It’s been another fantastic year so far for our business. Jon & I are extremely proud of what we continue to achieve alongside our talented team,” Operations Director Lisa Stones commented.

Roy Peters Estates – Award-winning standards

Roy Peters Estates is also celebrating both individual and company success.

After dedicated study, apprentice George completed his Level 3 in Housing and Property Management with Distinction. He also gained his Apprenticeship and Membership of the Association of Residential Letting Agents (Propertymark).

George will be presented with his certificates by Founder and Managing Partner Roy Cutt. The presentation will take place in the company’s garden.

The garden was created by the directors to recognise the team’s efforts in achieving the British Property Award. The firm has once again been named Best Letting Agency in Chesterfield at the British Property Awards. This marks its second year running and fourth time overall.

Judged through mystery shopping, the award highlights the consistently high standards delivered by the team.

Roy Peters Estates has also joined the Propertymark Company Advantage programme, further underlining its commitment to industry-leading standards.

“Roy, Emma, and Richard, Directors of Roy Peters Estates, are delighted to welcome George as a full member of our team following his great results and industry qualifications, and also wish to recognise the hard work of every member of our small team in ensuring we retained the Best Letting Agency in Chesterfield Award for the second year running.”

CMP Legal – National recognition in the legal sector

CMP Legal has been shortlisted for six awards across the Yorkshire Legal Awards and the East Midlands Chamber Enterprising Women Awards.

Co-founder and solicitor Anna Cattee is a finalist for Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year. She was recognised for leading £140 million worth of corporate transactions in just 12 months. A record rivaling some of the region’s largest law firms. She is also one of the few Notary Publics in the region and a mother to three young children.

“Over that time, I’ve gone from being an employed junior lawyer to a salaried partner and now co-founder of a successful law firm,” Anna said. “These award nominations are wonderful recognition for everyone at CMP Legal. Without teamwork, we could not have achieved what we have in less than five years.”

CMP Legal is also a finalist in three further categories at the Yorkshire Legal Awards:

Trainee of the Year (Harrison Easley), Employment Law, and Corporate & Commercial.

Harrison’s nomination celebrates his innovative work introducing AI into the firm’s practice management system.

The firm is also shortlisted in the Enterprising Women Awards for Team of the Year and Small Business of the Year. Winners will be announced on 26 September 2025.

These nominations follow national recognition earlier this year. CMP Legal was listed in the Legal 500 for Corporate and Commercial. An exceptional achievement for its first submission.
The firm also won Niche Law Firm of the Year and Legal and Dispute Resolution Team of the Year at the Sheffield & District Law Society Awards.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Property and Construction, Skills

DBCP apprenticeship programme grows future talent

27th August 2025

A former teaching assistant from Sheffield has taken her first steps towards a new career after joining DBCP as part of the company’s successful apprenticeship programme.

Shannon Edwards-Owen, 23, is starting her role as a Level 2 Business Administration Apprentice with the Chesterfield-based provider of building control services.

The former Parkside School student previously worked in education. She completed a foundation degree in Working with Young People and Families at Sheffield Hallam University. However, she decided it was time for a change and began looking for opportunities to develop her skills in a business setting.

“The apprenticeship with DBCP offers me the chance to build a career in a business environment, which is something I have become increasingly curious about,” Shannon said. “You make career choices at 16 which don’t always meet the needs of the adult you become.”

As part of her 18-month apprenticeship, Shannon will spend one day a week at Chesterfield College. She will spend the rest of her time gaining valuable workplace experience with DBCP’s busy Business Administration team, based at Dunston.

“We were impressed with Shannon’s CV. Beyond her qualifications, she’s shown an exceptional work ethic across multiple sectors since leaving school.” Said David Pratt, DBCP’s Building Control Manager. “We can see that she has what it takes to balance work and training. She’s precisely the kind of talent we’re proud to nurture at DBCP.”

Previously in her career, Shannon has worked in education, retail, and hospitality since she was 16 years old. She is no stranger to learning new processes.

Following on, Shannon said: “I could tell immediately that DBCP had a positive, engaging team and a history of supporting career-entry apprentices. The interview was a great experience. I was really encouraged to know how well other apprentices had done and to see first-hand the roles they now have within the business. I’m excited to start a new chapter in my career with DBCP.”

DBCP has built a strong reputation for supporting and investing in apprentices. Several of its team members began their careers through the same scheme.

Apprentice Building Control Surveyor Charlotte Gladwin won the title of LABC Newcomer of the Year in 2024. She has already gained recognition for her achievements. Charlotte is now in the running for Health & Public Service Apprentice of the Year. The Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025 will present the award.

Additionally, Harvey Ellis, another DBCP apprentice, is also a finalist competing for Higher Apprentice of the Year. Adding to the celebrations, DBCP has made the shortlist for SME Employer of the Year.

Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards will reveal the winners on Thursday 2 October.

To read more on our successful champions nominated at the Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025, please click here.

For expert building control advice and guidance, please get in touch with the DBCP team at www.dbcp.co.uk or call 0333 880 2000.

To find out more about apprenticeships and current vacancies visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/become-an-apprentice-in-chesterfield/find-an-apprenticeship-in-chesterfield/

Posted in Apprentice Town, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction, Skills