Celebrate Chesterfield

Chesterfield Champions highlight talent development on National Careers Week

Across Chesterfield, businesses are stepping up, offering training, mentoring, and hands-on experiences to help individuals develop key skills and build successful careers.

National Careers Week (NCW) 2025 is a celebration of careers guidance, supporting young people as they explore future pathways.

Chesterfield is the first town in the UK to declare itself an Apprentice Town, showcasing its dedication to nurturing young talent, supporting career growth, and strengthening the local economy. By retaining and developing skilled professionals, the town aims to attract more employers and drive long-term investment.

Support is also available now for firms in the area to upskill their teams or take on new employees to tackle recruitment challenges across our key sectors.

Here’s how our town’s network of Chesterfield Champions is setting the example for future talent development.

Businesses build strong links with training providers to support careers

Dawn Brown, Owner of DogLand UK

Many local businesses are working closely with training providers to give young people real-world experience. DogLand, in partnership with Juniper Training, is supporting student development. Owner Dawn Brown expressed her enthusiasm for her young learner, William, stating: “He brings fresh perspectives and a strong commitment to learning. We’re proud to be supporting him in achieving his goals and aspirations.”

Juniper’s Jordan Mitchell reinforced the importance of such initiatives, ensuring that our young people are supported. He added: “Our core mission is supporting young people in our community. We offer a supportive, academic environment where students can thrive and are encouraged to exceed expectations, contributing to their success and the success of the community.”

Jordan Juniper training

Jordan Mitchell, Juniper Training

Companies like DBC Training are also supporting skills growth by offering flexible short courses that enhance employability. One learner who completed the Work In: Warehousing course, praised their tutor’s engaging approach, saying: “The content was detailed and motivational, and the experience has been invaluable.”

Nurturing talent in Chesterfield’s legal sector

Lauren Pickard – CMP Legal

In the legal sector, CMP Legal and Banner Jones Solicitors are both paving the way for aspiring solicitors. Trainee Solicitor Harrison Easley at CMP Legal shared his experience, highlighting the firm’s hands-on approach, which has accelerated his professional development: “Unlike larger firms, CMP Legal has provided a more tailored and supportive environment, offering dedicated one-on-one guidance that has been instrumental in my professional growth as well as providing access to numerous resources to develop my skills. Because of the small size of the firm, I have also felt that my ideas and opinions have been heard, especially ideas surrounding the improvement of existing processes and utilisation of technology to meet the increasing client demand of ‘more for less’ in the industry.”

Lauren Pickard, Executive Director at CMP Legal, emphasised: “By investing in young professionals, we contribute to both individual career development and the long-term success of our industry.”

Claudia Risorto, Banner Jones Solicitors

Similarly, Claudia Risorto, an apprentice solicitor at Banner Jones, praised the firm’s supportive environment in helping her gain practical experience while training: “I’m currently in the second year of a six-year solicitor apprenticeship. I believe it is a fantastic alternative to university because it provides real-world experience in a professional setting. Banner Jones has been incredibly supportive, allowing me to work across different departments and learn from experienced colleagues. This well-rounded approach is helping me build a strong foundation for my legal career.”

Hands-On Experience in Traditional and Emerging Industries

teddy stonemason hardwick

Teddy – Stonemason at Hardwick

Skills development in Chesterfield is helping to keep traditional industries alive and support our rich heritage. National Trust Hardwick Hall is training young stonemasons, with apprentice Teddy stating: “Learning from experienced professionals and knowing my work will stand the test of time is incredibly rewarding.”

Meanwhile on the other end of the spectrum, Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions is helping to develop the next digital innovators. Owner, Kevin Walker explained: “I’m working with the British Computer Society as an associate endpoint assessor, helping apprentices pass their qualifications and gain full-time employment.”

Kevin Walker Black Swan

Kevin Walker, Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions

Global Brands has also embraced key digital roles to gain a competitive advantage,  with Ryan Arnold, a Level 4 Data Analyst apprentice, sharing: “I was initially nervous about starting a role in which I had no experience, however the recruitment team and the onboarding process quickly settled my nerves.

“Over the first few months my team trained me on the technical and specific aspects of the job whilst giving me the opportunities to practice and apply my learnings in real time.” Read Ryan’s full case study.

Ryan Arnold, Global Brands Ltd

Ryan Arnold, Global Brands Ltd.

Encouraging Careers in Engineering and Construction

Carrie Booth stood in front of office entrance

Carrie Booth, BSP Consulting

Businesses such as BSP Consulting, Stepnell, and Ecotech Engineers are promoting careers in construction and engineering.

BSP Consulting has celebrated the success of apprentices like Josh Plumridge, who recently graduated with first-class honors in civil engineering. Carrie Booth, Business Development Manager said: “We are passionate about supporting the future workforce. In addition, we’ve provided work experience opportunities over the summer months for several students. We want to help and support the next generation.”

Stepnell, currently working on the Staveley 21 high street regeneration project, has dedicated 20% of its workforce to young professionals, offering multiple work experience placements to Chesterfield students. Stepnell’s Business Development Manager, Fay Paterson added: “Young people are crucial to our future, bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm. We’ve also provided work experience to seven Chesterfield students and are committed to offering more opportunities through our projects.”

Fay Paterson, Stepnell

Fay Paterson, Stepnell

Ecotech Engineers is working with local schools to highlight careers in construction. Managing Director, Laura Holland said: “We’re starting a new initiative which supports schools, hoping to promote careers in our industry. By doing this, we’re also trying to remove some of the myths and stigma around women working in engineering.”

Woman stood in front of light wall smiling

Laura Holland, Ecotech engineers

Inspire Design & Development also prioritises professional development, with Gemma Feek, Commercial Executive, recently completing a Business Management degree apprenticeship while working for the company. Gemma comments: “Investing in young talent is vital for the future, and we’re proud to provide opportunities that help individuals develop and grow.”

Gemma Feek, Inspire Design & Development

Providing Workplace Insights and Career Guidance

louise bellwood

Louise Bellwood, Paperclip

Paperclip regularly hosts school pupils for work experience, helping them understand business operations. Director Louise Bellwood said: “As we grow, we continue to invest in training programs to upskill our team and provide shadowing opportunities for new employees.”

Anna Melton, In the Works PR

Anna Melton, In the Works PR

In The Works PR has seen several work experience students return as full-time employees, with some even going on to work in national media organisations. Director, Anna Melton reflected: “The company is 13 years old so now we are seeing some of our original work experience students establish themselves in their careers, I was watching the BBC news recently, and a presenter popped up who had previously joined us on work experience from Tupton Hall School. That was a proud moment!”

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Over £30m to be invested in council housing across Chesterfield

Over £30 million is to be invested into council homes across Chesterfield over the next financial year – as part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s continued commitment to providing affordable, decent homes for people across the borough.

The Housing Capital Programme for 2025/26 was approved at a meeting of Full Council on Wednesday 26 February 2025 and sets out the investment priorities for the next financial year.

At the heart of the Housing Capital Programme is safety and compliance, which remains the highest priority for the council. Throughout the 2025/26 programme, £4.4 million will be invested into properties to further enhance safety – including the replacement of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, asbestos management and removal, and replacement of communal lighting.

This investment will ensure that the council achieves 100% compliance in relation to the standards set by the Regulator for Social Housing.

Modernisation and refurbishment of the council’s existing homes remains a key priority in the council’s programme, with £17 million set to be invested in its housing stock. This will see the continuation of kitchen improvements and roofing upgrades, as well as a significant contribution to improving the energy efficiency of homes, in line with the council’s climate strategy.

Significant steps towards improving the energy efficiency of its homes are already ongoing – with a decarbonisation project underway at Brocklehurst Court which will see carbon emissions reduced by up to 80%. A bid has also been submitted to the Government’s social housing decarbonisation fund which would enable £6 million to be invested to improve the energy efficiency of over 800 homes.

As well as investing in its existing property, the council remains committed to increasing its housing supply – with the construction of further high quality, A-rated bungalows already underway in Middlecroft. A further scheme is also set to begin in Mastin Moor this year to bring a further 18 new build homes to the borough, whilst other sites have also been identified for the council to purchase properties.

Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “Our aim, as always, is to enhance Chesterfield’s housing offer and ensure we can provide affordable high-quality homes, and achieve and maintain a 100% decent homes standard.

“Our newly approved capital programme set out our strong commitment to achieving this and how we are improving our homes to ensure they meet the needs of the people of Chesterfield, as well actively contributing to the climate change agenda by ensuring all homes are energy efficient.”

Chesterfield is rated one of the best places in the UK to raise a family and the happiest town in the East Midlands. Find out more about living in our town here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

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New strategic vision unveiled for the regeneration of Chesterfield Canal

A masterplan to complete the restoration of the Chesterfield Canal as part of a large regeneration project has been launched.

The vision is for the Chesterfield Canal corridor to be reclaimed as a place for the local community to live, enjoy, and be employed; for tourists and visitors to come, play and stay; for new and existing businesses to grow and prosper; and for nature and biodiversity to thrive.

About 60 politicians, local government officers, businesspeople, canal enthusiasts and journalists gathered at the Parish Suite in Killamarsh to hear that there are two reports – a high level Strategic Outline Case covering the corridor between Chesterfield and Kiveton Park, and a more detailed Outline Business Case covering the section within North East Derbyshire District Council.

Both reports cover the Strategic, Economic, Commercial, Financial and Management aspects of full restoration. They focus on establishing a framework for the regeneration of the canal corridor rather than just the restoration of the canal itself.

The Chesterfield Canal Corridor Project will provide new canal and water-based training opportunities, introduce a range of activities to attract tourists and local residents, support activities for paddlesports, introduce cycling and walking trails with fitness opportunities to improve physical and mental health, create new business opportunities along the route, develop new carparking and access to improve connectivity, introduce measures to ensure the safety and security of users, support and enhance native wildlife and habitats, and create new areas for biodiversity.

It will further enhance the corridor as a place to live, visit and do business, improving the viability of housing delivery and raising land values locally to attract a range of economic investment.

Eighteen different hubs have been identified along the canal corridor. The report provides a summary of each site, some background information, potential project ideas and how they align with the drivers for change which are – Live, Work, Play, Health, Heritage and Environment.

The potential financial returns from these drivers include £252 million in Visitor Expenditure, £132 million in Art & Heritage Engagement and £116 million in Job Creation.

The masterplan was compiled by Focus Consultants and Sigma Architects. It was commissioned by the Chesterfield Canal Partnership, which is composed of local authorities, statutory and non-statutory bodies, the voluntary sector and private enterprise.

The Chair of the Partnership, Cllr Alex Dale, said: “Those of us who are close to the mission to restore the rest of the Chesterfield Canal, inherently know there are huge benefits economically, socially, environmentally and for the health and wellbeing of our local population. But as a partnership, it’s vital that we communicate the huge potential of a fully restored and navigable canal more publicly, especially for potential funders, to help secure the significant sums needed to finish the job. That is exactly what this new masterplan is all about.

“I particularly want to thank the Chesterfield Canal Trust, as well as our local authority partners – Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire County Council, North East Derbyshire District Council and Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council – for their vital funding contribution to produce this masterplan. We look forward to working together as a partnership to help realise our collective ambition to get the job done and realise the massive benefits the fully restored canal could bring to our communities and the region as a whole.”

During the research for the project, dozens of different stakeholders were consulted including all the local county, district and borough councils, the Trans Pennine Trail, Cycle Chesterfield, the British Horse Society, the Environment Agency, Don Catchment Rivers Trust, Kiveton Stakeholder Group and Don, Dearne & Rother Network. In addition, a community survey was circulated to Parish Councils along the route of the canal.

The project will be delivered alongside the restoration of the canal itself. The Chesterfield Canal is one of the country’s earliest navigations, opening in 1777. Originally constructed for carrying goods, the commercial traffic on the canal dropped off with the coming of the railways. The canal further declined in the early 20th century, and by 1968 only the 26 miles from Worksop to the River Trent were still navigable. Since 1989, through the hard work of those involved, 12 miles of the Chesterfield Canal has been reinstated, along with 37 locks, 12 major bridges and 2 new marinas.

There now remains approximately 8.5 miles of the canal to be restored between Staveley and Kiveton Park to make the canal fully navigable once more.

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Local charities and partners return for the 2025 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K

The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K has announced the return of its charity partners and sponsors for its 2025 event.

Scheduled for May 11th at Queen’s Park, this annual running event continues to unite the community while supporting local charities and promoting wellbeing.

The returning charity partners include the Redbrik Foundation as title sponsor, alongside Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, and Cavendish Cancer Care. The event also welcomes back Pronto Paints as a sponsor of the Fun Run and Wellbeing Challenge, alongside other returning sponsors Nuzest, Chapter II, North Derbyshire Running Club, and Chesterfield Borough Council.

Established in 2020, the Redbrik Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of people and communities across South Yorkshire and Northeast Derbyshire. The charity mainly focuses on children, young people, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

Ashgate Hospice delivers essential palliative and end-of-life care services for adults across North Derbyshire. Their involvement in the 10K helps fund their comprehensive range of services, from specialist nursing care to bereavement support.

Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, another returning charity partner, provides crucial support to families facing the heartbreaking reality of a child with a shortened life expectancy. Funding helps them continue offering services such as respite care, music therapy, and end-of-life care, all provided free of charge to families in need.

Cavendish Cancer Care supports individuals and families affected by cancer through a holistic approach to care. Their partnership with the event helps fund their range of services, including counselling, complementary therapies, and specialized support for children and young people, both online and at their dedicated Tim Pryor Centre.

Now in its fourth year, the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K will showcase Chesterfield’s landmarks, including the famous Crooked Spire, and will feature service and cheer stations along the route. Since 2017, more than £250,000 has been raised for various charities and good causes by the 10K races Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield Half Marathon.

John Timms, Event Director at MLS Contracts, said: “We are thrilled to welcome back all of our dedicated charity partners as well corporate sponsors from last year’s successful event. These partnerships have been key to making the Chesterfield 10K what it is today, and they showcase the brilliant community that exists within our region.

“We’re also excited to have the continued support of Pronto Paints, Chesterfield Borough , Destination Chesterfield, Nuzest, North Derbyshire Running Club and Chapter II, whose involvement helps ensure the event runs smoothly and professionally. Based on early registrations and community engagement, this year’s event is already shaping up to be our biggest yet. I can’t wait to see all runners, volunteers, and supporters gathering together again at Queen’s Park for another memorable day.”

David Cooper, Trustee of the Redbrik Foundation, added: “We are very proud to support this event, which has so much goodwill from all involved.

“We love this town and we want to see it thrive. Events such as this help to do that, with huge numbers of people coming to Chesterfield from all parts of the country to support, contribute or take part. We can’t wait until race day!”

To sign up for the upcoming race in May, visit: https://www.myraceentries.co.uk/RC10K/EntryForm.aspx

For more information about the charity partners, visit https://www.mlsgb.co/chesterfield-10k

Want to find out more about visiting Chesterfield and some of the great events and activities taking place across the town? Go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/ for more details.

Redbrik, Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, Chesterfield Borough Council and Nuzest support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Conference to showcase how community building boosts Chesterfield’s economy

Business leaders are set to hear how collaborative placemaking is helping to strengthen communities and attract more investment in Chesterfield.

This year’s Celebrate Chesterfield Business Conference, held in association with DogLand, will shine a spotlight on some of the partnerships between residents, businesses and public sector organisations that are lifting Chesterfield’s reputation as a unique place to work, live, visit and grow a business.

Taking place at The Winding Wheel Theatre on Thursday, 27th March, Celebrate Chesterfield will focus on community-led placemaking around our town centres.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield, the event will feature conversations with town centre investors on how our communities are the perfect fit for their business, and an interview with residents on their reasons for making Chesterfield home.

This year also celebrates 15 years of telling our town’s story alongside 230 Chesterfield Champions and partners. Destination Chesterfield is set to announce its new Chair at the event, who will also launch a new two-year plan to promote the town.

Attendees will be able to find out more about ongoing collaborative projects set to boost the town’s economy, including:

  • Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield: Improving the look, feel and flow of Chesterfield town centre, including a major modernisation of the historic marketplace. This includes support for a traditional market offer but also for a wider range of uses including community events, festivals and more.
  • Stephenson Memorial Hall refurbishment: creating a modern visitor experience in the heart of the town centre that includes an extended theatre, a reconfigured and modern museum, new gallery space, community facilities and a café bar.
  • PEAK Resort: the UK’s first purpose-built national park gateway ‘resort town,’ offering visitors world-class facilities and services as a base from which to access the Peak District National Park. The development is set to sustain thousands of jobs for local people.
  • Staveley 21: a £6m regeneration project in Staveley town centre creating a more attractive place to visit and spend time shopping, socialising, and exploring. The development includes a new landmark building which will house a library and office space to ensure the town centre remains at the heart of the local community.
  • Chesterfield Canal restoration: ongoing works include the reconstruction of 850m of canal channel, two new bridges, a new lock and over 3 kilometres of footpath improvements. Once completed, the canal will provide more access to nature for residents with improved infrastructure for walkers and cyclists.
  • Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe): a modern rail innovation and training centre, located next to Barrow Hill Roundhouse. The centre will provide 1,423 square metres of floor space, consisting of classroom and workshop training areas.
  • The Moorings: A two-storey building at the Staveley Canal Basin, comprising 11 new flexible business units and a new indoor and outdoor dining space.

In addition, multiple large-scale housing schemes are under construction, with thousands of homes expected to be built in Chesterfield in the next five years. Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice-Chair of Destination Chesterfield commented: “Celebrate Chesterfield is now in its 15th year, and I am looking forward to welcoming more businesses to this annual event to once again showcase and celebrate everything special and unique about our town.

“I’m particularly looking forward to outlining Destination Chesterfield’s ambitions for the next couple of years, as we continue to build on the £2 billion regeneration taking place across our community. Chesterfield is not standing still; over the last 15 years we’ve worked together to improve our borough and we will continue to work in partnership with our community to grow our economy and create more opportunities for our residents.”

Dawn Brown, Founder and Owner of DogLand, added: “I am delighted to support the Celebrate Chesterfield Business Conference this year. As a business which thrives in the area thanks to the support of our local communities, I’m excited to hear more about how we can strengthen links to improve Chesterfield’s credentials as a great location to live, spend quality leisure time, and grow a business.”

Delegates can book their free place at Celebrate Chesterfield and find out further details on the event at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/celebrate/

The conference will also play host to the Celebrate Chesterfield Business Expo held in association with East Midlands Chamber. The expo presents businesses with the perfect opportunity to meet and network with over 250 business delegates from the local business community. Businesses wishing to be part of the expo can get more information at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/celebrate/2025-exhibitor-booking-form/

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Work begins on enhanced community facilities at Barrow Hill Memorial Hall

Work to refurbish Barrow Hill Memorial Hall and create enhanced community and healthcare facilities has started on site.

Barrow Hill Community Trust is refurbishing its historic home to create a social space for the community and add new facilities that will enable local residents to access healthcare services.

With funding provided through the Staveley Town Deal and the Heritage Lottery Fund, the first phase of the ambitious project should be completed by March 2026.

Simon Redding at Barrow Hill Community Trust, said: “It is fantastic to get started on site and start to see our plans come together. This is a community building and will make a real difference in Barrow Hill, helping people to access the services they need at every stage of life but also ensuring that as a community we have a space that we can call our own and celebrate our achievements.”

Plans for the memorial hall include classroom space, healthcare facilities and a new social space for the community to come together. The work will be carried out in phases, with some elements dependent on further external funding.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said: “The Trust have worked incredibly hard to bring this project to life and I want to thank them for all their hard work. This project has the ability to transform lives and support our aim of ensuring that Staveley is a place where everyone can have the best start to their lives, stay, grow and ultimately achieve their potential.”

Barrow Hill Memorial Hall is owned and managed by the Trustees of Barrow Hill Community Trust on behalf of the community.

The Trust has owned the Hall since 1924 when Charles Paxton Markham gave the Workmen’s Hall at Barrow Hill to the community as a war memorial.

The refurbishment of Barrow Hill Memorial Hall is just one project that is being funded through the Staveley Town Deal. To find out more about the wider programme visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-town-deal

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New luxury hair salon to open at Elder Way

Elder Way will welcome a third business to the development later this year, with a new luxury hair salon, Feather & Fern set to open in Unit 1 on Knifesmithgate in May.

Feather & Fern owners and hairdressers Kerry Featherstone and Sara Fern have agreed a 10-year lease on the prominent 1,636 sq. ft unit with Elder Way developer Jomast marking another exciting tenant for the iconic former Co-op department store.

Feather & Fern will now join Bottle & Thyme and Hotpod Yoga who both moved to the development last year.

Both hailing and currently working in Chesterfield, the opening of Feather & Fern is the first business venture for Kerry and Sara.

Speaking about the move, Kerry said: “We are really excited by the Elder Way development. It is the new place to be in town. The unit and space wowed us and we wanted it immediately.”

Feather & Fern will be located in what was the electrical department of the former Co-Op department store. Work is now underway to transform the split-level unit.

Sara added: “Jomast has allowed us to be flexible with the interior and that was important to us. We want to put our own stamp on the space and create an environment unlike other hair salon in town.”

The lower level will host a welcoming area with a reception desk, sea grass pendant lighting, a seating area, and a coffee bar. “It’s an area for people to not just wait for their appointment, but relax,” Kerry added.

The second level will be zoned into cutting, washing, and mixing areas. In keeping with the wider Elder Way development, Feather and Fern will have a fresh and contemporary look.

The original unit 1 has been split in order to accommodate Fern & Feather’s business needs. The split has created a smaller 1,109 sq.ft unit which Jomast is confident will appeal to independent and start-up businesses in the area.

Mark Hill, Jomast’s Commercial Property Director said: “I am delighted that we have been able to accommodate Sara and Kerry’s new business and help them realise their dream.

“Feather & Fern will be a great addition to Elder Way and Chesterfield town centre. It’s a prominent unit with lots of parking nearby as well as neighbouring businesses like Bottle & Thyme which will assist them in getting their business established quickly.

The move to Elder Way by Feather & Fern means that all three corner units at the development on Knifesmithgate and Elder Way – are now fully occupied. Just one unit remains available on Knifesmithgate.

Set to open in May later this year, Feather & Fern aims to create nine jobs, including six stylist roles, two apprenticeships, and a beauty therapist role. The salon will have ten hair sections with extra seating for colours and treatments.

Looking forward to opening their first business, Sara said: “It’s very exciting and scary. We can’t wait to welcome clients – new and old – to Feather & Fern. We are delighted that we are able to bring our vision to life at Elder Way. It’s the place to be in Chesterfield.”

Just five units now remain available at Elder Way with agent WSB Property reporting strong interest from a number of operators.

For enquiries or further information about the available units, visit www.elderway.co.uk

Enterprises of every kind already benefit from Chesterfield’s positive approach, supportive community, superb travel links and excellent strategic location. Find out more about locating your business in our town at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

 

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New owners of Chesterfield’s oldest pub say venue has ‘huge potential’

The new owners of Chesterfield’s oldest pub say they have big plans for the venue after recently receiving the keys to their new business.

Meg Hartman and Patrick Hopkins are the landlords of Ye Royal Oak, based in Chesterfield’s historic Shambles in the heart of the town. The couple are currently working as teachers, and are balancing the pub’s renovation with their demanding jobs.

Speaking about their decision to take on the pub, which is claimed to date back to the 12th century, Meg explained: “Having lived in Chesterfield for almost three years now, we frequently passed the Royal Oak and spoke about how we’d love to be in the position to buy the pub to transform it back to being a beautiful boozer.

“We are currently both teachers (Patrick – a secondary history teacher – and Meg – a special needs primary school teacher) and while this has been a rewarding career for us both, it has been a lifelong dream of ours to own a pub. We knew that we wanted something in the area and we also wanted a historic pub whose heritage we could celebrate and restore. The Royal Oak, obviously, ticked both of these boxes and we were fortunate enough to be in a position to buy the pub as independent owners.”

The couple say once the pub is back up and running, they are keen to turn it into a venue which can be used by all corners of the local community.

Meg added: “We think it has huge potential as a town centre venue. We are aiming to be a wet led pub with a warm and welcome atmosphere selling regional, national and international craft ale, beer and cider. Having both spent a lot of time working up in the Highlands, we also hope to provide a robust whisky offering.

“Our food offering will be a fine selection of bar snacks (think butties, pork pies, sausage rolls, pickled eggs and the best crisp selection you could imagine). As we become more settled in the rituals and routines of Royal Oak life, we may look to extend this offering to pies and toasties. We will also have a solid roster of regular events (such as a weekly pub quiz, folk sessions, chess nights) as well as one-off events (tap takeovers, meet the brewers etc.). We are also hoping to serve as a space for groups within the local community to come together and connect.”

Since moving to Chesterfield three years ago, Meg and Patrick say they have fallen in love with the town and its people: “We love living in Chesterfield. It’s such a great town that is really made by the people that live here. We have had such an overwhelmingly lovely response from locals who love the pub and have shared their own stories with us.

“We feel very supported in this venture. As the oldest pub in Chesterfield, we are thrilled to add to its layers of history and want to do our best to preserve its heritage. We are looking forward to collaborating with local pub history tours to bring in locals and visitors to the town alike to share in the thrilling history of the town’s pubs. Sitting just in the Shambles, we are looking forward to the developments being made in the market and look forward to being a destination for shoppers to come for a pint, a coffee or a chat. We are also looking forward to joining a network of superb local independent businesses.”

Keep up to date with the pub’s renovation on Ye Royal Oak’s social media pages:

Want to discover more about what Chesterfield has to offer? Head over to our visiting pages and plan your stay in Chesterfield.

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Chesterfield Pride announces line-up for 10th anniversary event

Chesterfield Pride has announced an exciting line-up for its 10th anniversary event this July.

The festival, which sees thousands of visitors celebrating in Stand Road Park returns on Saturday July 19th.

The event will have two stages, with the main stage to be headlined by chart-topping boyband, 911. The group scored 10 top ten singles in the UK including a number one single. The Main Stage will also see performances from MOBO award-winning Big Brovaz, chart-topper and West End star Diana Vickers, 90s artists Alex Party and Berri.

Also announced on this year’s lineup is the iconic Honey G, Pride legend Kelly Wilde, Dene Michael from Black Lace and Britain’s Got Talent star, Rob King.

The event also hosts the Cabaret Stage which will see some of the UK’s most well-known drag artists appearing, alongside the best in unsigned talent. This year’s Cabaret Stage will see performances from the fabulous Baga Chipz, Fatt Butcher and Bernie De Bra. Aditionally, this stage will see some of the world’s best tributes including Donna Marie as Lady Gaga and Melissa Totten as Madonna. Unsigned artists appreating at the event include Toni Lee, Poppy-Mai, Davey Stuart and Lexi Whiteside.

Chesterfield Pride Organiser, Dan Walker commented: “I am so proud to see the event reach its 10th Birthday. To see Chesterfield Pride grow over 10 years has been fantastic. To know we are now the region’s biggest LGBTQ celebration is an amazing achievement. The event has a fantastic team of volunteers working on it to make it happen.

“Chesterfield Pride is a day about bringing the community together and having fun. Chesterfield Pride would not be possible without the amazing support from everyone that attends the event and all the businesses that sponsor us.”

Tickets are £10 if bought in advance. Under 16’s are free entry but must be accompanied with an adult. Tickets available through Skiddle or by visiting: chesterfieldpride.co.uk

Find out more about events and activities taking place in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

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Partnership working enables promotion of the Peak District and Derbyshire on the international stage

Recent international marketing activity work has been undertaken by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire to boost overseas visitors to the area.

2025 is off to a flying start with Visit Peak District & Derbyshire spearheading international tourism activity to support the destination’s core aims to increase overnight stays, extend the tourism season and grow the value of the visitor economy.

As lead partner of the area’s Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), Visit Peak District & Derbyshire recently worked in partnership with VisitBritain and West Midlands Growth Company to host travel buyers from the Netherlands and Belgium on a familiarisation trip to the area.

The influential group of buyers and tour operators – all experts in selling trips to the UK – were in the destination as part of VisitBritain’s ‘Showcase Britain’ event, which includes a series of special educational visits to shine the spotlight on the latest products and experiences on offer for future visitors.

The programme enables overseas buyers to make new connections and gain first-hand experience of destinations, so they are equipped with the latest product knowledge to create new itineraries and drive international visits that will support and grow the visitor economy.

According to VisitBritain research, the UK welcomed 2 million visitors from the Netherlands in 2023 who spent a record £1.1 billion. In the same year, 867,000 visitors from Belgium travelled to the UK, spending a record £481.4 million.

With a strong focus on travelling for culture, heritage, nature and the outdoors, the aim is to encourage Dutch and Belgian visitors to add the Peak District and Derbyshire to future itineraries and help grow the destination’s £2.9bn visitor economy.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire worked alongside six local tourism operators to bring the ‘Showcase Britain’ trip to life – and in connection with VisitBritain’s new Starring GREAT Britain campaign, the visit was designed to highlight some of the area’s many film locations which have featured in films and TV programmes shown across the world.

The buyers discovered the breathtaking beauty of the Peak District National Park on a guided walk with Peak Walking Adventures on Stanage Edge, as seen in the 2005 film adaptation of Pride & Prejudice.

The group also visited Haddon Hall, historic home of Lord and Lady Edward Manners, to discover the backdrop for famous films and TV shows including Wolf Hall, Mary Queen of Scots, The King, The Princess Bride and numerous adaptations of Jane Eyre.

The buyers enjoyed Bakewell Pudding Making at the Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop, sampled local food at The George, Hathersage and The Pilsley Inn on the Chatsworth Estate, and stayed at the newly-opened Bike & Boot Hotel in Hope, a walking, cycling and dog-friendly hotel in the heart of the Peak District.

The activity to drive international visits came hot on the heels of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire attending the Britain & Ireland Marketplace (BIM) trade event in London on 26th January, which offers British tourism suppliers and destinations an opportunity to meet 1-1 with overseas buyers from across the world.

Other recent activity has included an international workshop with VisitBritain Germany in November to meet major tour operators and travel agents, and promoting the area’s trade-ready product at the ‘Vakantiebeurs’ Trade Day event in Utrecht earlier this year, which is regarded as a key annual travel event for the Netherlands.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “Attracting international visits to the Peak District and Derbyshire is vitally important to creating a sustainable, year-round visitor economy that supports local jobs, businesses and communities.

“International markets can be key for supporting tourism businesses in the traditionally quieter months, encouraging longer stays, increasing visitor spend, and driving economic growth right across the region.

“Being part of these important face-to-face events and familiarisation visits helps showcase the area as a world-class destination for key travel trade buyers, ensuring the Peak District and Derbyshire is ‘front of mind’ for them when programming and recommending destinations to their clients in 2025 and beyond.”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, says: “People across the region know and enjoy the beautiful towns, villages and breathtaking countryside in Derbyshire, and we’re so fortunate to have the incredible Peak District on our doorstep. I have loved spending so much time in Derbyshire and the Peak District, it’s such a joy to visit either in my role as Mayor or going there with my family on rare days off.

“I am delighted with the work being done by the team at Visit Peak District and Derbyshire, as we rightly showcase to the world all we have to offer tourists and businesses. It is so important to me that we protect and promote this part of our region, support and grow the businesses here and make sure as many people across the globe add ‘Visit Derbyshire’ to their travel plans.”

Planning your trip to the Peak District or Derbyshire? Make sure you visit the historic market town of Chesterfield! Find out more about what our town has to offer at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

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More Chesterfield businesses must access apprenticeships and skills support to meet economic need

Chesterfield businesses are being encouraged to take advantage of funded training to accelerate workforce development and boost productivity, to support the town’s economic growth.

Delegates at the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference heard about support for skills development in Chesterfield and the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s priority to further improve training and skills to match the region’s economic needs.

Regional skills and employment initiatives will be backed by a £70m investment spanning six workstreams, each designed to offer a clear pathway of support from early careers inspiration through to skills delivery at higher levels for all residents.

Speaking at the event, Cllr Paul Hezelgrave, Portfolio Lead for Skills & Employment at East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), addressed the town’s role in the growth of the region. He said:

“With a working age population of some 64,000, and a town that currently supports 51,000 jobs, forecasted to grow further in the coming years, Chesterfield is an important economic centre; the town’s growth principles of delivering higher value, sustainable and inclusive growth support our vision and will be intrinsic in us delivering our priorities.”

Cllr Paul Hazelgrave

The conference also heard how young people in our region and people with disabilities are becoming more involved through the Connected Futures Project. Discussions around skills and inclusive recruitment seek to improve employment outcomes for working-age young people with learning difficulties and autism spectrum disorders.

A team of Youth Voice Ambassadors representing our region spoke to delegates about the importance of inclusivity in decision-making processes and empowering young people along their journey into the world of work.

In addition to regional investment, delegates heard how later this year a £40m investment from the government via the Growth and Skills Levy will replace the existing Apprenticeship Levy, bringing more flexibility to skills and talent growth, funding a wider range of apprenticeships and training that is aligned with the evolving needs of business.

The Conference was held during National Apprenticeship Week, which Chesterfield celebrates proudly as the first town in the UK to officially declare itself an ‘Apprentice Town.’

New figures released during National Apprenticeship Week highlight the growing success of apprenticeships in Chesterfield, with achievement rates rising by 33% in 2023/24 compared to 2019/20. In the past financial year alone, 370 individuals successfully completed apprenticeships in the town.

As well as allowing learners to progress quickly whilst in paid employment, research further underscores the significant economic benefits of apprenticeships, with a report by the National Institute of Economic and Social Research finding that every pound invested in apprenticeships delivers a net gain of £21 to the UK economy. Currently, over 1,500 individuals are undertaking apprenticeships in Chesterfield, representing a substantial investment in local talent.

To help businesses navigate their options, the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service offers specialist support tailored to workforce development needs. Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice-Chair of Destination Chesterfield, urged local companies to take action:

“I welcome the additional investment that EMCCA is bringing to skills and employment activity in Chesterfield.  It strengthens the offer that we are already delivering to support businesses in the borough.  I strongly encourage all businesses to get in touch with our Skills Brokerage Service at the earliest opportunity to see how we can provide the support they need to enhance skills and grow their business. We need to work together to ensure Chesterfield possesses a vibrant and talented workforce that can take advantage of future opportunities to grow our economy.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby speaking to room of delegates

Businesses looking to access skills support and apprenticeship funding can find out more by visiting: https://www.derby.ac.uk/business-services/skills-brokerage-service/ or by emailing info@chesterfield.co.uk

The Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Brokerage Service is one of many initiatives benefiting from funding through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). The council successfully secured £2.6m from the UK Government to support local businesses and improve opportunities for residents, with funding available until the end of March 2025.

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