Local entrepreneur Ann Fomukong-Boden has been chosen by the British Science Association (BSA) to become one of its new Community Leaders.
Ann is a STEM Ambassador, Electronic Engineer and Director of Chesterfield-based Kakou Technologies. Ann is one of twelve individuals from across the UK chosen to take part in the programme. The aim of the Community Leaders programme is to harness the passion and ideas of the individuals, enabling them to deliver sustained public science engagement throughout the year.
Since 1994, the BSA has organised British Science Week, an annual grass-roots celebration of science and engineering that runs over 10 days every March.
Ann said: “I’m very proud to be chosen by the BSA as one of their first Community Leaders. Many people find it hard to engage with or relate to the sciences; it is still seen by many as a difficult subject that is not useful later in life. However, we all use and rely on the sciences every day, for example, using our mobile phones, cooking, applying make-up or going to the pub.”
“Working with local organisations, I’m hoping to build a network which can share and promote each other’s STEM related activities and events.”
In the New Year, Kakou will start offering a mixture of creative arts and technology-based workshops designed for people looking to learn or discover new skills. The first workshop will be a Raspberry Pi session for total beginners (parents, teachers and hobbyists) held at Chesterfield Library in January 2019. More information can be found here.
Anna Jackson recently joined the Chesterfield College management team as Vice Principal for Learning, Skills and Innovation. She is working alongside Directors at the college to develop academic and technical provision and to drive forward the college’s quality and improvement plan.
Anna brings a wealth of education experience and a track record of curriculum improvement and working in partnership with local industry to develop the skills needed.
Following a career in industry, Anna joined the education sector around 15 years ago. Her first role in further education was in Leicester, where she initially worked as a lecturer but she quickly joined the management team.
Anna left her role as Head of Faculty for Business, ICT, Technology, Engineering and Construction at Birmingham Metropolitan College to join Chesterfield College. During her time in Birmingham she worked on key projects such as setting up the region’s Rail Academy working with stakeholders such as the National College of High Speed Rail.
Anna said: “I know from my short time in this job that this is a college which puts learning at the heart of what it does and I am looking forward to being part of that. A huge part of my role is to work with the team to improve performance and progress of learners and to develop Chesterfield College’s offer to ensure we are providing quality further education for students and employers.”
“I am keen to work with schools, employers and the Local Enterprise Partnerships to ensure that we are developing study programmes with progression and the local economy in mind. We will be working hard to raise learner aspirations and ensure they move on to positive destinations.”
Anna will play a key part in growing the college’s engineering and advanced manufacturing provision and a number of other projects to meet the needs of the region.
They are CHICKS, SkillForce and Twenty Twenty, all three of which work to improve the lives of children and young people.
At next year’s Christmas Lunch, each will receive an equal share of £1,932.31 raised at this year’s event in addition to any other money raised by the Chamber’s efforts throughout the year.
At this year’s Christmas Lunch, the three charities nominated last year – Rhubarb Farm, Leicester and Leicestershire Animal Aid and Hope Against Cancer – each received a one-third share of £3,615.
The Chamber’s charity activities are managed by the East Midlands Chamber Charitable Fund, which was set up in 2016 and is administered by the Leicestershire and Rutland Community Foundation.
Kevin said: “It gave me great pleasure to present three very worthwhile charities with much-needed donations and also to name three more charities to which the Chamber will donate next year.”
“Charities rely on donations for their survival and whether it is a large or small amount I would encourage businesses to take part in events that help to raise money for them.”
Now in its 15th year, the national Chamber Business Awards is one of the showpiece events in the business calendar, highlighting the role of business in delivering growth and prosperity for the UK and local communities.
The Chamber was also joined on the night by four member companies – Dalycom, Shirebrook Academy, Tidyco and trentbarton – which had gone on to enjoy regional success following their respective achievements at the Chamber’s Business Awards across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire.
It has been a busy and productive 2018 for the Chamber which, as the leading business support organisation in the region, continues to dedicate itself to providing its members with a comprehensive and ever-evolving suite of products, services and information to help businesses succeed and thrive.
Reflecting on the award, Francis Martin, President of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) has shown impressive growth and retention in recent years. The strategic work and engagement of the Chamber with local stakeholders embodies the mission of Chambers of Commerce everywhere.”
“Its efforts to engage with other Chambers and improve member offerings is a testament to its dedication. Congratulations to the entire East Midlands team, truly worthy recipients of this award.”
Steve Charles, Head of Business Partnerships at award sponsor Quest, said: “Congratulations to East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), deserved winners of this prestigious award.”
“It is a great example of how a Chamber can make a significant contribution to the national network while also taking a leading and influential role in its own business community. It has developed a first-class service to members, which is witnessed by its continued growth. Well done to all the team.”
“This acknowledgment is testament to the dedication and hard work shown by all the staff at the Chamber, who made this award possible by continuing to work tirelessly and passionately on behalf of our members to fulfil our overall objective – to enhance East Midlands businesses.”
The latest staff survey completed by Peak Pharmacy has shown promising levels of engagement within its Pharmacy teams. Peak Pharmacy is a local, independent pharmacy chain owned by PCT Healthcare.
Having grown from one pharmacy in Chesterfield to now owning and managing over 120 pharmacies in the UK, PCT Healthcare now employs over 1,400 people, with Peak Pharmacy currently employing over 150 people across North East Derbyshire.
The survey of the Peak Pharmacy staff was used to identify where staff were performing well, and where management teams needed to listen to individuals to improve working environments.
The results have shown that a promising 93% of all staff surveyed wanted to give their best at work, whilst 88% of those surveyed felt that their roles positively affected people’s lives. The findings also revealed that 80% of those surveyed felt valued as individuals, which supports Peak Pharmacy’s family culture of empowering their staff and treating them as a priority.
Gill Watters believes that the firm is a strong role model within the town: “As an employee, I find PCT Healthcare has strong company values tied to strong family values, with employers who understand the need for work / life balance.”
“As an individual, I feel valued and that my opinion matters which is very important. All job roles are crucial to the success of the business and this is noted and regularly passed on to staff through meetings, newsletters and social gatherings.”
Director Joe Cattee stated: “In the current high street climate, and the ever growing pressures on the NHS, I’m proud that so many of our staff feel they are treated as individuals within the company, and they’ve identified that our patients & customers are benefiting from their roles. Community pharmacy is currently a changing environment, and we must now endeavour to use the recent findings to improve the conditions and ethos of our staff within the business, and continue to lead the way in supporting the local communities of Derbyshire.”
“I look forward to carrying out the survey again next year, and improving on this year’s results.”
Peak Pharmacy on Ashgate Road is one of the many Peak Pharmacy stores throughout Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
A Chesterfield manufacturer has been featured in this year’s Parliamentary Review on government policy involving the manufacturing and services sector.
United Cast Bar (UCB), Europe’s largest manufacturer of continuously cast iron bar, is one of only 16 companies from the metals, materials and fabrication sector to be included in the annual review.
With a foreword written by the Prime Minister Theresa May, the review has been sent to more than 500,000 leading business executives, policy makers and other relevant individuals. The Review also features messages from Lord Pickles and Lord Blunkett. For more information, please click here.
James Brand, Managing Director of United Cast Bar (UK) explained: “Being included in the Parliamentary Review is a great opportunity to put UCB’s name in front of both key politicians and industry representatives.”
“Brexit has created an uncertain climate for the sector in which UCB operates, but I am positive about the future. I personally see it as an opportunity for the company. We manufacture great products in this country and there has been a shift, both at home and abroad, towards buying British. UK demand for our product is increasing and I am confident that the final agreement with the EU will have few or no barriers for trade.”
Formed in February 1998, United Cast Bar is the result of the merger of three of Europe’s most prestigious continuous cast iron bar foundries and their associated stockist and service centres. The UK foundry and worldwide headquarters are based in Chesterfield and it is from here that approximately 90% of production is exported.
United Car Bar employs more than 100 people at its site on Spital Lane. James added: “Chesterfield has served us well in the 20 years we have been based in the town. There is an excellent supply of skilled employees in and around Chesterfield and we are keen to attract more through our apprenticeship programme and links with local schools.”
“If we are to develop our young people and retain their talent in the UK, schools must start bringing manufacturing and engineering careers to their attention; getting young people interested in the sector is a great first step.”
The year-long campaign looks to inspire the next generation, with businesses, schools and training providers coming together to showcase the sector.
As part of the 2018 Made in Chesterfield campaign, UCB will be supporting the drive to get young people interested in careers in the manufacturing sector by hosting school visits to the foundry over the next 12 months.
To arrange a visit to United Cast Bar for your school as part of Made in Chesterfield, please contact Charlie Kay at Derbyshire Education Business Partnership on 01246 212535.
Derby’s former Chief Nurse, a world-leading butterfly expert and the chairman of a global drinks company have received Honorary Degrees from the University of Derby at Award Ceremonies last week.
Each year, notable people with a strong connection to the University, the city and the county are chosen to receive an Honorary Degree, in recognition of the valuable contributions they have made to their fields.
Thousands of graduating students, guests and VIPs attended the Ceremonies, which took place on Thursday 22 and Friday 23 November, at Derby Arena.
The year’s recipients are:
Kay Fawcett OBE, Honorary Doctor of the University
Steve Perez, Honorary Master of Business Administration
Colin Treadaway-Hoare, Honorary Doctor of the University
Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “It is always a pleasure to present Honorary Degrees to those who have played such a significant role in our region, and Kay, Steve and Colin are no exception.”
“Each one of these notable people has made an exceptional contribution in their field. I am delighted to present them with these honorary awards alongside graduating students, and hope they will inspire the next generation to achieve great things in their own chosen fields.”
Steve Perez is chairman of Global Brands, a leading independent drinks business, and owner of Casa Hotel and Peak Edge Hotel in Chesterfield, as well as being part of Chesterfield Champions. Steve grew up in Chesterfield and founded the Global Beer Company in 1986, initially selling imported beer to local pubs and clubs from the back of a van.
In 1997, he spotted a gap in the market and launched VK, now one of the best-selling vodka-based drinks in the UK. In 2002, Global Brands was the UK’s fourth fastest-growing company and Steve was voted CBI Entrepreneur of the Year. Since then, Steve has expanded into property, farming and hotels. Outside of work, Steve has been a successful rally driver and is a four-time British rally champion.
The University wishes to recognise Steve’s achievements as a local entrepreneur and his impact on the local economy.
The awards were held at Chesterfield College and hosted by Dronfield entrepreneur Jessica Cunningham, star of TV show The Apprentice.
It is the 10th year that the Derbyshire Times has held their Business Awards, recognising the very best of the area’s commerce, trade and industry. Outstanding firms and the businessmen and women that run them were honoured in 14 different categories.
Derbyshire Times Editor Phil Bramley said: “The awards night was a great celebration of some of the outstanding business we have in our local community.”
“It was especially moving to see the standing ovation which Jillian Thomas received as she collected her Lifetime Achievement award and as she spoke powerfully about how being caught up in the Boxing Day Tsunami while on holiday in Thailand changed her life forever.”
“The judges had no hesitation in naming Ashgate Hospicecare as our overall Business of the Year 2018 and there can surely be no more deserving recipient.”
“It was especially fitting that they received the award in the year they mark 30 years of providing vital end-of-life care to people across north Derbyshire.”
The winners were:
The Innovation Award
Winner: Auto Windscreen
Highly commended: Chesterfield Royal Hospital Foundation Trust, MOTUS Women Entrepreneurs Network.
People Development Award
Winner: A-Rock Construction
Community Contribution Award
Winner: Less Than Zero Barbers
Highly commended: Chameleon School of Construction
Customer Service Award
Winner: S44 Travel
Highly commended: Less Than Zero Barbers, Pinewood Properties
Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Jenna- Leigh Bates of Recruit 2 You Ltd
Highly commended: Declan Pike of Palamatic, Deborah Downes of Van Dyk by Wildes
Independent Retailer of the Year
Winner: Itsy Bitsy Boutique
Lifestyle and Leisure Award
Winner: Stephensons Tea and Coffee House
Highly commended: Morley Hayes
New Business of the Year
Winner: Revilo Images
Highly commended: Edwards Employment Solutions Ltd, White Peak Distillery
Professional Services
Winner: Shorts
Highly Commended: Pinewood Properties
Small Business of the Year
Winner: Emerald Accountancy Services Ltd
Highly commended: Inspire Design and Development, Paperclip, Sanitaryware Supplies Company Ltd.
The Excellence in Manufacturing Award
Winner: BG Engineering
Charity of the Year award
Winner: Ashgate Hospicecare
Mitchells Anniversary Award
Winner: Sanitaryware Supplies Company Ltd
Business Person of the Year award
Winner: Rupert Armitage of Auto Windscreens
Lifetime Achievement Award
Winner: Jillian Thomas of Future Life Wealth Management
2018 Business of the Year
Winner: Ashgate Hospicecare
Derbyshire Times Business Awards 2018: Winners and runners-up join together for a group photograph at the end of the awards ceremony.
A year-long campaign, which is sponsored by University of Derby, has been launched in Chesterfield to get more young people interested in careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).
Established in 2014, Made in Chesterfield has traditionally been a month-long festival held during November. To mark its fifth year, the campaign has now been aligned with the National Curriculum and will run throughout the next 12 months.
Organised by Destination Chesterfield and Derbyshire Education Business Partnership, the Made in Chesterfield campaign brings together businesses and employers in the sector with schools and education providers.
This year, the campaign is supported by key employers in the local STEM sector, including Chesterfield Police, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar, Kingfield Electronics, Aztec Oils, Penny Hydraulics and Trans-Tronic, who are all opening their doors to teachers and pupils who are keen to know more about careers and jobs on offer.
Since establishing Made in Chesterfield, the campaign has resulted in over 2,500 young people from schools spending time in the area’s manufacturing and engineering businesses. School visits to businesses operating within the STEM sector are being organised by Derbyshire Education Business Partnership.
Chesterfield College has also credited the initiative with helping to make a difference to the awareness of careers linked to STEM subjects. The number of students studying STEM subjects at the College has increased from 265 last year to 440 in 2018.
Launched at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, the move to a 12-month campaign follows news that Spanish train manufacturer Talgo is considering investing in a £9 million innovation centre at Barrow Hill Roundhouse.
Speaking at the launch Dr Peter Dewhurst, Commercial Director, University of Derby, said: “Since opening the University’s Campus at St Helena’s in October 2016, the University has worked hard to support the town with us enrolling over 400 new learners and engaging with 12 local businesses to deliver Knowledge Transfer Partnerships. However, we are keen to do more to support the community and local businesses in achieving their potential and one way we are looking to achieve this is through our support for the Made in Chesterfield campaign.”
Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield commented: “Talgo’s recent interest in Chesterfield has further put the spotlight on the town’s engineering and manufacturing sector. Our central location, engineering heritage and knowledge base makes us particularly attractive to companies operating within the STEM sector.”
“It’s a very exciting time for Chesterfield. We have the core ingredients to make the area a national hub of excellence for manufacturing and engineering. Initiatives like Made in Chesterfield which bring together education and business are so important in helping the town attract further investment to increase both job numbers and opportunities for everyone.”
Clare Talati, Director of Derbyshire Education Business Partnership said: “We have seen this initiative grow each year and we actively encourage all schools to get involved; bringing the world of work to life for learners is at the core of what we aim to deliver and the commitment made by local businesses is fantastic and not to be missed.”
Chesterfield Champion Shorts is pleased to confirm that with effect from November 2018, they have agreed to purchase Clay Cross based accountancy practice Lilleker & King, as sole practitioner Andrew King looks to retire.
Andrew King began his career over 40 years ago, working for (what was then known as) Samuel Edward Short & Co, articled to Jim Briar. He previously worked alongside Andrew Heelin and remained in touch with his former colleagues after leaving the firm before he joined the business of Lilleker & King in 1990.
Andrew Heelin, who is now Shorts’ Accounts Director, comments “We are all looking forward to meeting Lilleker & King’s clients and ensuring that they continue to receive the level of service that they have previously enjoyed.”
Andrew King added “Having trained in my early career myself at Shorts, it was a natural decision for me to look to transferring my business to them when I retired. I know that my clients will receive a great service and be in safe hands with the team at Shorts.”
Andrew King will be working alongside Andrew Heelin over the coming year in order to ensure a smooth transition of his clients. Members of the Lilleker & King team have also joined Shorts.
Chesterfield has today been named as one of two locations still in the running for a new UK factory planned by Spanish train manufacturer Talgo.
If the borough’s bid is successful the former Hartington Colliery site, between Staveley and Barrow Hill, would become home to a factory which would create 1,000 high quality jobs.
The manufacturing site would also create an estimated 4,000 jobs in the supply chain for the region, as well as apprenticeship, training and educational opportunities.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “Today’s announcement by Talgo means we are getting ever closer to achieving this once in a generation opportunity for the people of Chesterfield.
“A new factory on this scale would provide a massive boost to our economy particularly in terms of job opportunities for local people.
“Talgo’s commitment to a ‘true manufacturing’ approach would also generate openings for local businesses to supply components as part of the supply chain, which would help create more jobs and increase the positive impact on our economy.
“Chesterfield Borough Council will now set about working with its partners to submit further information to Talgo over the next week and we will continue to make the strongest possible case for Talgo’s UK factory to be located in Chesterfield borough.”
Chesterfield’s bid highlights:
• That remediation work is already underway to prepare the former Hartington Colliery site for development
• Chesterfield’s location at the heart of both the existing rail network and the planned phase 2B of the HS2 rail network, which will see Chesterfield have an HS2 station and also an HS2 line maintenance depot at Staveley
• Chesterfield’s excellent transport connectivity, with over 23 million people living within two hours’ drive, and four major airports and four sea ports within 90 minutes travel time
• That an investment would create further regeneration and development opportunities related to HS2, as well as support the existing Staveley Works corridor development plans for 1,000 new homes, a new primary school and £50 million access road
• The ability to offer Talgo access to the area’s world class rail supply chain and a highly skilled workforce
• The strength of partnership working in the area involving the landowners, Derbyshire County Council, the universities of Derby and Newcastle, Chesterfield College, Barrow Hill Engine Shed and the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre in Rotherham.
Carlos de Palacio – President of Talgo, said:
‘The establishment of a manufacturing facility in the UK is a significant part of Talgo’s future strategy.
“Talgo’s aim is to establish true manufacturing – rather than assembling from parts made elsewhere. This means that we will draw from materials and expertise across the UK.
“This keeps more money in the UK economy, and creates more skilled long-term jobs.
“Talgo also wants to develop a UK testing centre, and acceptance ability, to ensure a smooth and faultless introduction of new trains into service. We are excited about the opportunity that Wales has taken for testing – for the benefit of the UK – and we want to work with the Wales team on some aspects of this.
“Although there can only be one factory site, we have established lasting relationships with all of the countries, regions and areas that we have visited. We are now developing those relationships, to ensure that – irrespective of the factory location – Talgo provides great opportunities across the UK.
“Talgo is renowned for innovation. We want to encourage innovation, drawing on skills from all parts of the UK. We will shortly make a further announcement regarding our plans.”
If successful, building work would start in July 2020, ready for the train factory to open in December 2021.
A new £9 million innovation and training centre is also planned to be built at Barrow Hill Engine Shed for Talgo to use and showcase its technologies.
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