Celebrate Chesterfield

Conference to launch three-year celebration of traditional crafts and makers in Derbyshire

The Derbyshire Creative Heritage Conference is coming to Chesterfield in March. Entitled Derbyshire Makes: Honouring Tradition, Inspiring Future Makers it will shine a light on heritage crafts and skills, giving the national, countywide and local perspective on this important sector.

The conference will also celebrate some of the traditional crafts associated with the region and discover how they can be protected and evolved for future generations with speakers, live demonstrations and ‘have a go’ opportunities for delegates.

The Derbyshire Creative Heritage Conference is a biennial event, organised by Junction Arts which brings together experts, creatives, volunteers and those who love heritage, to share ideas, network, and develop partnerships for the future.

This year’s event will mark the start of Derbyshire Makes, a three-year celebration of making in all its forms, with free events taking place across the county this spring between 28th March and 27th April.

The conference will be held at Chesterfield Town Hall and West Studios on Friday 28th March, from 10am until 4pm. Speakers for the event include Mary Lewis from Heritage Crafts, Eilis Scott from the Arkwright Society, ceramic artist Clare Gage and textile artist Anna Piper.

There will also be demonstrations from Richard Wilkes, a National Trust stonemason and Sam Tinsdeall, a carpenter, also from the National Trust.

Junction Arts Project Manager Jane Wells said: “We’re delighted to be bringing the conference to Chesterfield, a place that has a rich and interesting history when it comes to making, from ceramics to fashion, engineering to art – Chesterfield was and still is a creative hub and we’re looking forward to celebrating that.

“We have a full day planned that will include interactive elements for delegates to join in with, and I hope that people will network, share ideas and develop their knowledge, helping to secure the future of traditional and endangered crafts.”

To book your place at the Derbyshire Creative Heritage Conference 2025 visit: https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/DerbyshireCreativeHeritageConferenceDerbyshireMake

Junction Arts supports 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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DBCP’s David Pratt wins prestigious Public Service Superstar award

David Pratt, Building Control Manager at Chesterfield-based DBCP, the leading provider of building control services in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands, has been named the Public Service Superstar at the LABC Building Excellence Awards (24 January 2025).

The largest business-to-business awards in the building control sector, the LABC Building Excellence Awards recognise quality in all types of building projects and individual contributions in the construction industry.

The prestigious award recognises David’s significant contributions to the building control profession and Local Authority Building Control (LABC), helping both attract and retain people within the profession.

He was presented with his award at the award ceremony, which was held at London’s Grosvenor Hotel on Friday 24 January, by renowned comedian and ‘Outnumbered’ actor Hugh Dennis.

David’s accolade follows his earlier win of the same title for the LABC East Midlands region. At the national awards he went head-to-head with 5 other regional finalists to claim the title of overall winner.

Judges highlighted David’s remarkable achievements in establishing DBCP’s highly successful apprenticeship programme, which has been instrumental in recruiting and developing young talent within the building control sector.

Additionally, David is celebrated for fostering a culture of continuous learning among all staff at DBCP, ensuring the highest standards are upheld throughout the organisation.

Accepting his award at the star-studded event held at London’s Grosvenor Hotel, David said: “I am absolutely delighted to have won the Public Services Superstar award, especially when I was up against such incredible competition. However, the award isn’t just about me – it’s testament to the entire DBCP team. From our dedicated admin staff, trainees, the plan checking and on-site trainers, and our inspectors, everyone plays a vital role in both DBCP and ensuring that we maintain the highest level of building control safety.”

David also acknowledged the support of LABC’s Training team for DBCP’s apprentices and the University of Wolverhampton for providing degree-level training to the company’s Level 6 apprentices. He added, “It’s truly a team effort, and I couldn’t be prouder of the people I have behind me.”

Earlier this year, Construction News revealed that the Building Control sector was facing an exodus of building inspectors following the introduction of the need to be certified by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) as part of the new post-Grenfell building safety regime.

In addition to apprenticeships, DBCP has invested significantly in staff training across the board. Most recently its team of inspectors have all successfully completed the new competence certification.

He added: “Nationally, there is a shortage of qualified Building Inspectors and both I and DBCP, take our responsibility seriously to recruit and retain talented professionals in the sector who will ensure the next generation of safe buildings.”

In addition to David’s win, DBCP also celebrated being a finalist for the Team of the Year category, and Charlotte Gladwin, a member of DBCP’s apprenticeship programme, was a finalist for the LABC Newcomer of the Year.

Charlotte, 22, who joined DBCP in 2023, transitioned from retail management to building control and has just successfully completed the CIOB Level 4 Diploma in Building Control Surveying. Currently undertaking Level 5, Charlotte will then move onto complete a Level 6, Building Control Surveying Degree Apprenticeship with DBCP.

The evening also celebrated Derbyshire architect Jim Mundy from Richard Mundy Building Design Ltd, who won the Best Residential & Small Commercial Designer category. Jim’s work has long been admired by DBCP for his commitment to excellence in building control and dedication to supporting high-quality, sustainable construction projects throughout Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands.

David commented, “Jim’s innovative designs and dedication to preserving the character of the Peak District inspire us all at DBCP. The award was very much deserved. The team and I were all delighted for him.”

Further success came for Oak Grange Primary School in Derby, which was Highly Commended as the Best Public or Community Building. DBCP worked alongside Lungfish Architects, Morgan Sindall and Derby City Council to deliver the multi-million-pound school in 2023.

DBCP supports 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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Entry opens for awards showcasing young professionals in our region

Future leaders, creatives and apprentices are among East Midlands 18-35s set to be recognised for outstanding ability, potential or achievement in 2025’s Generation Next Awards, now open for applications.

Powered by East Midlands Chamber, Generation Next provides learning and development resources, skills workshops and mentoring for professionals and entrepreneurs in the 18-35 age group. The Generation Next Awards are one of the most important events in the network’s calendar.

Three new award categories have been introduced for 2025: Excellence in Professional Services, Excellence in Sales and Marketing and Communicator of the Year, while entry requirements for established categories have been refined. Following a judging process winners will receive awards at a celebratory event in summer.

Entry for all 12 categories closes on 7th March and submissions can be made by people within the qualifying age group or by a colleague.

Generation Next Lead and East Midlands Chamber Director of Resources Lucy Robinson said: “The day we hit ‘go’ on the Generation Next Awards is the start of an exciting rollercoaster each year! There’s so much young business talent in the East Midlands that deserve to be recognised for hard work, skill or innovative thinking. 18-35’s can enter themselves, or a business or colleague can nominate on their behalf.

“We’re all used to hearing of people awarded after making millions for a company. Generation Next is that same star quality in people – just much earlier in their journey! Whether you or a colleague excel in customer service, are a promising apprentice or have led a project brilliantly, we want to know.

“I’m really excited we have three new awards for 2025 and we’ve revamped the requirements for our longstanding awards too. Winning a Generation Next award isn’t just 5 minutes in the spotlight – you get excellent exposure, and nothing highlights brilliance like an award judged by industry leaders.

“I’m often asked for tips on what makes a winning entry. I’d just say don’t hesitate or overthink as people have often achieved far more than they realise or see in themselves. That’s why businesses can nominate an employee or colleague on their behalf. If you or a colleague stand out in some way, our judges will see that too so don’t hold back. We’d love to see you at the ceremony in summer, which is always great fun, and join in celebrating a Generation Next award win!”

Categories for the 2025 Generation Next Awards

• Apprentice of the Year Award
• Creators and Makers Award
• Excellence in Customer Experience Award
• Entrepreneur of the Year Award
• Future Leader Award
• Innovator of the Year Award
• Talent Development Award
• Community Impact Champion Award
• Excellence in Sales or Marketing Award
• Emerging Talent Award
• Communicator of the Year Award
• Excellence in Professional Services Award

Applications close at 17.00 on 7th March 2025.

To see full entry requirements or submit an entry click here.

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Chesterfield rail firm receives order for environmentally friendly shunting locomotive

A Chesterfield company has received an order for a zero-emission shunting locomotive, following a positive trial period.

Heidelberg Materials, which supplies heavy building materials, has ordered its first zero emission battery shunting locomotive to support internal rail operations at one of the UK’s leading quarry facilities.

The highly innovative 08e battery locomotive will be delivered by Chesterfield-based Positive Traction in the summer of this year and follows two weeks of trials with the 08e prototype in October at Heidelberg Materials’ Whatley Quarry in Somerset, the company’s largest UK quarry.

Heidelberg Materials’ 08e shunter will be upgraded to zero emissions operations by repurposing an existing 60-year-old vehicle from its current operational fleet and removing its carbon-based diesel power source, achieving an immediate reduction in carbon, NOx and particulate tail-pipe emissions. The move to zero emission shunting of thousand tonne trains within the Whatley Quarry site will also offer environmental benefits to nearby communities.

Alistair Gregory, Director of Positive Traction, said: “I’d like to thank the Heidelberg Materials team at Whatley Quarry for inviting us to trial the prototype 08e last year and for their swift move in placing an order for an 08e designed with their specific and demanding requirements in mind. All of us at Positive Traction are hugely excited by Heidelberg Materials’ recognition of the opportunities presented by repurposing existing traction to meet the zero emissions demands of tomorrow’s railway.”

Vincent Pitt, Area General Manager at Heidelberg Material’s UK, said: “Our order for a battery powered 08e shunter is part of Heidelberg’ Materials’ 2030 commitment to reduce scope 3 emissions in delivery transport by 15 per cent from our 2019 baseline and to be fully carbon neutral by 2050.

“We were enormously impressed by the trial of the prototype 08e easily mastering 1,000-tonne aggregate trains on what is a steep and challenging internal quarry network in places. By offering a donor vehicle for conversion by the Positive Traction team we can capitalise on our existing assets and secure the long-term future of these powerful shunting locomotives in a sustainable way.”

Maggie Simpson, Director General of the Rail Freight Group, said: “This is an excellent example of the aggregates sector partnering with an innovative UK SME to deliver zero emission rail movements in a very demanding operational environment. I congratulate both Heidelberg Materials UK and Positive Traction on this announcement and look forward to seeing the 08e in operation later this year.”

Find out more about the benefits of locating your organisation in Chesterfield: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

battery powered shunting locomotive in action shunting trucks

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KranLee Logistics shortlisted as finalists for International Entrepreneur of the Year award

Chesterfield’s KranLee Logistics is celebrating a major award nomination, having been named a finalist at the Real Entrepreneurs East Midlands Awards 2025.

The company, based at Markham Vale is one of three finalists shortlisted for International Entrepreneur of the Year.

The Real Entrepreneurs’ Awards were recognise and celebrate those who have truly excelled in the face of adversity. It is hosted by the East Midlands Real Entrepreneurs’ Club, which was launched in 2016 and provides investors and entrepreneurs with new business contacts and ideas.

By shining a light on entrepreneurs who set up breakthrough businesses, saw dramatic growth, or even pivoted their business to adapt in the ever changing face of our economy, the awards their stories enabling others to learn and grow.

KranLee Logistics’ shortlisting is yet another impressive milestone for the company, having already scooped several awards in the past year, notably the Derbyshire Business of the Year at the annual East Midlands Chamber business awards.

The firm brings over 30 years’ experience of working within the freight forwarding industry. Directors Karen Mosley and Lee Wells apply their knowledge and passion for the sector, to provide a highly tailored and bespoke logistics experience for their clients.

Karen Mosley, Director of KranLee Logistics, commented: “From navigating global supply chains to developing innovative freight solutions, our mission has always been to push boundaries and deliver excellence. This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and vision of our entire team.

“A huge thank you to our clients, partners, and supporters who keep us moving forward. Fingers crossed for award held on the 10th April.”

Chesterfield businesses aiming to further promote their business and gain recognition for their teams are encouraged to attend an upcoming Awards Writing Masterclass event, taking place in the town on Wednesday, 26th February 2025.

Looking for support to grow your business in Chesterfield? Get in touch with Destination Chesterfield, and we’ll get you in touch with the right experts and advisors to suit your requirements.

KranLee Logistics supports 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’s Crush Design shortlisted for major continental award

An independent design and branding agency based in Chesterfield, which works for brands both close to home and across the globe, has been recognised by the only awards programme in Europe that celebrates the transformative power of rebranding and brand development.

Crush Design has been shortlisted for the Transform Awards Europe 2025, under the category of ‘Best Visual Identity From the Engineering and Manufacturing Sector.’ The nomination comes as a result from the company’s recent re-brand for Ziemann Holvrieka.

The awards recognise excellence in creativity and strategy across the whole brand development process. Categories cover audio branding, brand architecture, brand evolution, creative strategy, implementation, visual identity, and wayfinding. The awards also include a special recognition subsection to identify the most strategic, creative and innovative brand specialists.

Natalie Burkinshaw, Director at Crush said: “As a renowned global player with 15 subsidiaries worldwide, Ziemann Holvrieka has been at the forefront of shaping the beverage industry for over 170 years. Their engineering and manufacturing experience has seen them build breweries for the world’s most esteemed beer brands, along with executing projects across complementary industries worldwide.

Black and white image of female business owner smiling at camera

“But despite their centuries of success, the Ziemann Holvrieka brand was starting to fall behind. Whilst very established, their identity needed to be re-imagined to retain a competitive brand presence and look to the future of brewing engineering.

“Taking on this year-long re-brand project involved each and every one of the Crush team, but the hard work was certainly worth it. Working with the senior management at Ziemann Holvrieka, too, proved seamless, and as project partners that truly understood and trusted our creative thinking both during the development and rollout of the refreshed brand.

“They really were, and still are, a pleasure to work with, as we continue to support them in sustaining their identity across their website, sales collateral and wider creative assets. We look forward to the award results in March!”

Crush supports 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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Study ranks Chesterfield in the UK’s top 20 greenest towns

Chesterfield has been ranked amongst the 20 greenest towns in the UK, according to a recent study.

Our town took 15th spot on the list compiled by HolidayCars, which studied several criteria including sustainability practices, green spaces available, public transport options, local food production, air quality and pollution levels, and support for local businesses.

Speaking about Chesterfield’s green credentials, the study said: “Found on the edges of the Peak District, Chesterfield is another green area to live in the UK. In fact, in a 2024 study by Eurocell Chesterfield was ranked as the UK’s best town for access to green spaces, with 95% of homes and flats having private outdoor space, with an average size of 249.7m².

“Queen’s Park in Chesterfield has also been a recent recipient of a Green Flag Award, while a brand-new dedicated cycle route has been installed linking the nearby location of Staveley to Markham Vale Business Park, which has encouraged many office workers in the business centre to cycle to work rather than drive.

“Derbyshire County Council recently involved Chesterfield schools in climate action education as part of their curriculum, part of which involves a Climate Leaders Award to inspire children and staff alike.

“The air quality in Chesterfield is also generally considered to be good, and thanks to its close proximity to the Peak District, there are plenty of local escapes into the hills as well as cycling routes throughout the Peaks, helping locals exercise in one of the most beautiful areas of the country.”

Ryan Wilkes, Destination Chesterfield Board Member celebrated the news, commenting: “I’m proud to see Chesterfield listed as one of the UK’s greenest towns.

“Our town boasts a plethora of picturesque outdoor spaces for people to enjoy and of course sits alongside the world-famous Peak District National Park.

“Many of our organisations are also working to become greener and implement sustainability practices, with green growth across the East Midlands region three times higher than it was in 2015.

“Our central location and excellent public transport links also help to ensure Chesterfield offers an excellent quality of life for its residents.”

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

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Long-awaited PEAK gateway resort breaks ground

The long-awaited PEAK gateway resort situated on the eastern boundary of the Peak District has broken ground. Phase One is scheduled to open to visitors 2027/8.

Consented on 283 acres (114 hectares) of reclaimed former opencast land, PEAK proposes the UK’s first purpose built national park gateway ‘resort town’.

PEAK Gateway will offer visitors world class facilities and services as a base from which to access the trails and attractions of the 550 square mile National Park. Similar to a ski resort, PEAK Gateway has visitor mobility at its heart. PEAK’s mobility system will link up the trails and country lanes of the Peak District without the need for a car and help establish the area as the largest integrated off and on road cycling and hiking region in the UK.

Planning approvals totalling 1.8mft2 (168,000m2) have been granted to facilitate a multi-branded mixed use development available to both day and stay visitors. The approvals offer extensive experiential retail, a wide range of leisure and educational facilities, a wellness clinic with operating theatres, 2,850 car parking spaces and up to 2,000 hotel rooms and 250 holiday lodges. The development has consent for its own energy park.

PEAK Gateway will be delivered by way of an incremental and phased ground leasing strategy. Heads of terms have already been agreed for the first two anchor plots with Colliers acting as Real Estate Adviser and leasing agents for Birchall Properties, the land owner. Phase One represents in the region of 30% of the consented development and is scheduled to open 2027/8.

Plan of new PEAK Gateway building - artist impression from high vantage point

Fully implemented PEAK has the potential to achieve a development value of over £1billion and sustain thousands of jobs. Around 70% of the reclaimed estate will be set aside for continued biodiversity gains as well as offer nature connectivity to encourage people’s engagement and delight in nature.

Sheffield City Region granted £2.85m for the construction of the now completed resort public highway access from A61 interchange at Sheepbridge and the new public rights of way around surrounding the resort estate.

The commencement of land formation works continues the delivery of the outcomes promised by the grant. Booths Group https://theboothgroup.co.uk/ have been appointed lead contractor for the land formation activity.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Acting Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “PEAK offers an opportunity to use formerly open cast land in a way that supports nature but also creates new opportunities for our residents and increases the number of visitors coming to Chesterfield. It is great to see work starting on site and I look forward to seeing the development progress.”

Scott Knowles CEO of the East Midlands Chamber of Commerce said: “PEAK’s gateway manifesto provides the opportunity for regional businesses to participate in the construction and operation of a world class ESG exemplar enterprise celebrating and making available the cultural and natural assets of our region.”

Jo Dilley Managing Director Visit Peak District and Derbyshire said: “The PEAK Gateway development, is a transformative project that will redefine the visitor experience in the Peak District. With the introduction of high quality serviced hotels, we will be able to cater to more groups and international visitors, offering world-class accommodations and amenities. The sustainable transport solution at the heart of PEAK will not only enhance the visitor experience by providing seamless access to the park’s trails and attractions but also significantly reduce car traffic in busy hotspot areas, a change
that will be warmly welcomed by local residents. This development marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and enjoyable future for all who visit and live in and around the Peak District.”

James Shorthouse, Head of Alternative Markets at Colliers Real Estate said “We are delighted to have advised PEAK, and to be delivering exciting new developments bringing visitors and employment to Chesterfield and the East Midlands region of the UK.”

For enquires please contact james.shorthouse@colliers.com

Matthew Booth, Founder of The Booth Group, highlighted the significance of the project, stating: “This is a three year programme for Booth’s and perfectly complements our specialism of regenerative land solutions bringing challenging landscapes back into beneficial use. We are thrilled to be part of the iconic Peak Gateway development, activating the UK’s growth potential through the regeneration of land for local communities and legacy value.”

Rupert Carr of Birchall Properties said: “From the outset PEAK has been a land first business, over 30 years and millions of pounds has been invested in the revival of the former opencast estate and the obtaining of now implementable planning permissions. It’s great to finally be underway and to be involved in a regenerative enterprise capable of activating and sustaining clean growth in the regional visitor economy”. For enquiries, visit the PEAK community information website https://www.peakliaison.co.uk/enquiries

Location of PEAK Gateway

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Bridge Help celebrates five-year milestone from Chesterfield base

Chesterfield’s Bridge Help, a specialist provider of commercial bridging finance, is proudly celebrating five successful years in business.

Operating from its central Chesterfield headquarters, located on Old Brick Works Lane, the company has not only thrived but also defied the odds, with fewer than half of UK businesses surviving beyond their fifth year, according to government statistics.

Research shows that the likelihood of business failure increases year-on-year up to five years:

  • 1 year: 6% have failed
  • 2 years: 27% have failed
  • 3 years: 44% have failed
  • 4 years: 54% have failed
  • 5 years: 60% have failed

Founded in 2019 by Chesterfield native Chris Sellars, Bridge Help has since risen to become a trusted name in the bridging finance industry as well as developing a reputation for doing complex deals.

Reflecting on the achievement, Chris Sellars, General Counsel and Chief Executive of Bridge Help, said: “Reaching the five-year milestone is particularly meaningful because the odds are stacked against businesses surviving this long. It hasn’t always been easy, but through adaptability, hard work, and a commitment to doing things better, we’ve carved out a niche as a lender that prioritises personalised service over a ‘tick-box’ approach.”

In addition to the firm’s people-focused approach, Chris attributes Bridge Help’s strategic location in Chesterfield as a contributor to its success. The town providing a central base for servicing brokers and investors throughout England and Wales as well as attending major industry events in Manchester, London, and beyond.

He added: “Chesterfield is more than just my hometown; it’s the ideal location for Bridge Help. Its central position enables us to stay connected to brokers and clients across the UK while attending key industry events such as MBE and the Finance Professional Show. I remain deeply committed to Chesterfield, which has proven to be an excellent foundation for our growth.”

Bridge Help was launched to address inefficiencies Chris encountered during his legal career with Banner Jones Solicitors, where delays in securing finance often disrupted property deals. Determined to make a difference, he founded the company to offer fast, tailored lending solutions.

Originally based at offices on Hady Hill, the company relocated to its current HQ off Sheffield Road in 2020 where it employs a nine-strong team. Chesterfield’s central location and transport networks allows the team to meet brokers and clients across the UK with ease while also attending industry events that drive business growth.

“Chesterfield isn’t just where our story began; it’s central to how we operate. The town offers a fantastic quality of life for our team, and its strategic position enables us to remain agile and responsive to our clients’ needs,” he added.

Looking to the future, the company has recently secured additional inward funding, which will enable it to expand its lending book sustainably.

“This town is part of our DNA, and we’re excited to continue our journey here, supporting businesses and property projects across the UK. Here’s to the next five years and beyond.”

If you’re looking for a short-term loan for commercial property and would like to speak to a member of the Bridge Help business development team, contact Bridge Help on 033 3303 4681 or visit bridgehelp.co.uk.

Bridge Help supports 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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Trio of Champions begin 2025 with exciting announcements

Three Chesterfield organisations have started 2025 strongly, announcing staff promotions and boosted services.

Our latest roundup features a new service being launched by Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s Primary Care department, a new CEO announced for SMH Group, and an exciting new role for a Managing Partner at Shorts Accountants.

Find out more below:

Royal Primary Care enhances patient experience with new phone system

Doctor writes on clipboard wearing stethoscope and gloves

Arriving at a time of increased demand across the NHS and primary care, Chesterfield’s Royal Primary Care (RPC) is excited to announce a positive development for patients with the implementation of a new, state-of-the-art phone system, Surgery Connect, designed to enhance patient experience and streamline practice management.

Nathaniel Webber, Managing Director of Royal Primary Care, said: “We are committed to providing the best possible care for our patients. The introduction of Surgery Connect is a significant step forward in improving our communication capabilities. This system will ensure that our patients experience more efficient and effective service, reducing wait times and enhancing overall satisfaction.”

Key benefits for patients:

• Enhanced Queue Position and Call-Back Options: Patients will spend less time waiting on the phone with new queue and call-back features.
• Effective Signposting: Patients are directed to the right service quickly, reducing wait times.
• Seamless Integration with Clinical Systems: Calls are managed more swiftly, with patient details easily checked and updated.
• Dedicated Cancellation Option: Patients can easily cancel appointments, helping to reduce wasted slots and improve availability.

Initial feedback from other GP practices using Surgery Connect has been overwhelmingly positive. Practices have reported significant improvements in call handling efficiency and patient satisfaction.

According to recent data, 60% of UK GP practices using Surgery Connect have seen a marked improvement in their communication processes. Additionally, patient surveys indicate an 85% satisfaction rate with the new system, highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing the overall patient experience.

Royal Primary Care is a division of Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. This close relationship allows for a more integrated approach to healthcare, combining primary care with hospital services to provide comprehensive care for our patients and ensures that we can respond effectively to the significant challenges in primary care and continue to deliver high-quality services.

Dr Hal Spencer, Chief Executive at Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, highlighted the operational benefits: “Surgery Connect is not just about better phone lines; it’s about integrating our communication with our clinical systems to provide a seamless experience for both patients and staff. The new system will allow us to manage calls more swiftly, update patient details easily, and reduce the time taken to handle each call. This means our staff can focus more on patient care.”

Shorts’ Managing Partner Andy Irvine elected to Global Board of Praxity

Shorts_Andy Irvine

With affect from 1st January 2025, Shorts’ Managing Partner Andy Irvine has been elected to the Global Governing Council and Board of Praxity – the world’s largest alliance of independent accounting and consulting firms.

Shorts have been members of Praxity since 2018, and in the six years since joining, have forged strong relationships with member firms and extended their reach to businesses worldwide. The alliance provides a modern responsive delivery model that gives member clients access to quality auditing, tax, accountancy and advice around the world, whilst UK clients remain confident in the knowledge that partner firms in other territories are there to support and guide as appropriate.

Having played an active role within the Alliance and chaired the UK conference for four years, Andy’s appointment to the Global Board, reflects his commitment to the future success of the Alliance.

Upon confirming his appointment, Andy Irvine said “I look forward to working with Steffen Aherns, Jason Drake and the rest of the Praxity board as we focus on developing the alliance for an exciting future, whilst continuing to serve our global clients with outstanding work.”

As active members of the alliance, Shorts maintain strong relationships with international colleagues. During 2024 alone, representatives from Shorts attended the North American Leadership conference, the Global Tax conference in Madrid, the Global conference in Singapore, and the North American Tax Conference in Orlando.

You can find out more about how being a member firm of Praxity helps Shorts’ clients by visiting shorts.uk.com/praxity/

SMH Group appoints Jonathon Dickens as CEO, James Hartley steps into Chairman role

Jonathon Dickens SMH Group

Yorkshire and Derbyshire based accounting and business services firm, SMH Group as announced the appointment of Jonathon Dickens as CEO of the business, with James Hartley moving to the role of Chairman.

Having been at the firm for almost 20 years after joining as an apprentice in 2005, Jonathon has been instrumental alongside James in the firm’s strategic growth in recent years, completing multiple acquisitions since 2017 and expanding the group’s service offering to include commercial finance, mortgage brokering and wealth management.

With these changes, SMH is doubling down on its already successful growth strategy and its vision of becoming the leading accounting and business adviser in the region. Key to this is continuing to attract and retain the best talent, making it the partner of choice for clients in the region, and continuing its current growth trajectory through a combination of organic growth and future M&A activity.

Jonathon Dickens, CEO said: “Our people are what makes SMH such a fantastic place to work and an equally trusted advisor to our clients. I hope to carry on the great work James and I have done together by continuing our growth trajectory into 2025 and beyond.

“On a personal note, I’d also like to thank James for being an inspirational figure, a true mentor and friend during our time to date at SMH and beyond.”

James Hartley will be moving to a strategic advisory position in his new role as Chairman of SMH Limited.

James Hartley, Chairman added: “Over the last 22 years, SMH has become a business we can truly be proud of, with an incredible team and clients. I look forward to supporting the business in a strategic capacity in my new role as Chairman.”

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Chesterfield couple continue business success with launch of new cocktail bar

An entrepreneurial couple are continuing to build on their success in Chesterfield, following the successful launch of a new town centre cocktail bar.

Gavin and Hannah Grainger, who recently relocated the popular Bottle & Thyme restaurant to larger premises on Elder Way, have now opened a new bar on the site of the restaurant’s previous location.

The latest addition to the town, Elder, is a neighbourhood wine and cocktail bar, serving coffee and grilled cheese by day and an extensive wine menu and charcuterie and cheese boards by night.

Speaking about their latest launch, Gavin commented: “Moving Bottle & Thyme over to its new home on Elder Way has been amazing and so well received. The new venue definitely does have more of a city vibe with it’s big, open, airy space but we also wanted to keep the small, intimate nature of our old venue and offer something a little different to Bottle & Thyme.

“Elder is a grown-up, sophisticated place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of life and enjoy the finest things in life; good coffee, wine and cheese. We wanted to bring something to our town that isn’t currently on offer and feel Elder achieves this with its offering.

Plate of meditteranian food including bread, olives and cheeses

“Having both been raised in Chesterfield and currently bringing our own two boys up in the town, we are really passionate about developing the area and creating special places for people to share and enjoy. We want to bring people into the town centre from the town and surrounding areas and cities to support the town’s growth and other local businesses. We have a brilliant team that is currently growing and we are thrilled to be able to provide exciting job opportunities to our town.”

Speaking about their decision to invest further in our town centre, the couple added: “We really feel Chesterfield is on the brink of lots of exciting change. If anything we’ve learnt from Bottle & Thyme is that there is a significant market of people in Chesterfield who want to come out to enjoy quality products, service and something a bit different; creating a huge potential for independent businesses looking to embark on a new project.

“Something that we really value running businesses in Chesterfield is the incredibly supportive relationship businesses have with one another, for example visiting each other on Christmas do’s or special occasions, encouraging chats and promoting each other to customers.

“We can’t stress how grateful we are for the support given to us by our town so far. We have been running for 8 years and it is this support that has enabled us to expand to our new bigger premises to be able to offer so much more to the town centre. If people want to see change, they need to be part of it, alongside the independents taking the leap into our lovely town.

Elder 6

“Increased footfall in the town is a necessity, with local residents actively choosing to spend money within their town centre as opposed to outside of this and online. Our hope and aim is for Chesterfield to be a bustling, busy town with a fantastic offering of retail, hospitality and leisure and we really feel this can be achieved.

You can find Elder at 15-17 Knifesmithgate, S40 1RL in the town centre, just opposite Bottle & Thyme. The business is active on Instagram @elder_chesterfield and Facebook, detailing its products and upcoming events. Bookings can be made over the phone 03300161365 or via email hello@elderchesterfield.co.uk

Planning your visit to Chesterfield? Find out more about how to make the most of your stay here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

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