Development

Corrugated Case Company featured in Britain’s Got Talent semi-final

Chesterfield-based packaging manufacturer, Corrugated Case Company were taken by surprise recently, when they found out their products had been featured in an episode of ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent.

The company’s boxes featured in a death-defying stunt during a semi-final episode, which was carried out by The Magic Marine (aka James Stott). The stunt saw the brave magician put his life in the hands of BGT judges David Walliams, Alesha Dixon, Amanda Holden and Ashley Banjo.

Concealed in one of five giant boxes, The Magic Marine asked each of the four judges to release a ton of explosives dangling precariously overhead at random.

You can see the dramatic action in the video below:

Founded in 1996, The Corrugated Case Company is recognised today as one of the UK’s leading specialists in the design and manufacture of corrugated packaging products, establishing a firm reputation for quality, innovation and delivering value to customers. However, the team believes this is the first time their products have featured in front of a national television audience!

Melissa Wilcockson, Technical Sales Manager for the Corrugated Case Company said: “We had no idea our boxes were going to be featured in the act. It wasn’t until a few weeks after the programme aired that we learned the order was shipped to a commercial provider of magical props, which is how they ended up in the hands of The Magic Marine.

“As you can imagine, it was a huge surprise for everybody. Our boxes and packaging have been used in all manner of industries, but this is the first time — as far as we know — they’ve been used for something like this!”

The company also joked in a statement on its website: “We can throw a few shapes here and there on the dance floor, but not much beyond the classic Big Fish / Little Fish / Cardboard Box routine. And as for comedy, well, we think it’s fair to say that joke just now is a prime example to suggest we wouldn’t make it past the front door — let alone the auditions round!”

The Corrugated Case Company supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Export Growth Plan launched to boost Chesterfield and Derbyshire businesses in overseas trading

The Department for International Trade (DIT) has launched its ‘Export Growth Plan,’ which will provide additional financial support and expertise to help boost overseas activity for businesses.

Some of the plan is targeted towards companies based in Chesterfield and Derbyshire, including:

The Export Academy

Launched on 16 October 2020, The Export Academy is designed for owners and senior managers of businesses with a turnover of up to £500,000 to help build capabilities and confidence to trade internationally; and to overcome the challenges that businesses may face when they start to export.

Businesses can pick and mix which modules they would like to attend to find out how to understand customs procedures, export controls and documentation, getting paid, how to research international markets, pricing and distribution, export procedures, exporting products and services and Inco terms.

Structured around free one hour webinars, round tables and mentoring sessions, the Academy will give small and micro-businesses the opportunity to complete an export action plan, enabling you to take your business direct to international customers.

Internationalisation Fund

DIT is soon to release grants to help companies that have significant potential to grow their international sales. Match-funded grants of between £1,000 and £9,000 will be available for future activity for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire businesses (subject to eligibility and availability).

They are now accepting expressions of interest so that as soon as the fund is made available they can include you. The grants could cover the following areas – internationalising a website, procuring translation services, international consultancy, international legal advice, international IP advice, independent market visits or attendance at non TAP trade fairs.

1:1 consultations with an International Trade Adviser

DIT is offering a 30 minute 1:1 video or telephone consultation with an International Trade Adviser. If a business is experiencing issues in relation to international trade we are here to help.

Ian Harrison, Department for International Trade’s Head of Exports for Midlands said: “The Department’s recently launched Export Growth Plan will have a big impact across our region. Importantly, it will allow businesses in Chesterfield to grow their overseas trade and help them recover from the economic impact of coronavirus. This package of measures will ensure Midlands companies are supported from the start, with more funding, more Trade Advisers and the establishment of the Export Academy to help businesses build back better.”

You can find out more about what’s available here.

 

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Support for Chesterfield SMEs looking to take on talented graduates

Small-to-medium sized enterprises in Chesterfield are being invited to find out more about support available in adding talented graduates to their teams.

RISE is a unique business support initiative focussed on enabling small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to grow through the employment of graduate talent. Businesses can receive access to free, tailored recruitment, talent matching, training and funding support.

It has been effective in helping SMEs overcome the barriers faced in graduate recruitment and equipping them with the tools and know-how to become successful graduate employers.

Since 2013, RISE has supported more than 350 regionally based SMEs successfully recruit over 450 graduates. Many of those businesses have gone on to report increases in turnover, productivity, innovation and growth as a result.

The enhanced RISE project now provides even more comprehensive business support and business benefits. RISE is delivered through a well-established collaboration of the region’s local authorities, universities and a specialist private sector delivery partner working together to provide the tailored support your business needs.

Sarah Stanley, SME Engagement Manager said: “We currently have an amazing talent pool of 250+ high quality graduates ready and wanting to work for SMEs in Sheffield City Region, including Chesterfield. Our support is fully funded and we help you to scope and advertise your graduate level role, match suitable candidates from our talent pool and provide you with a shortlist for you to interview.

“As well as helping you to find a great graduate(s) we help you make the most of your graduate hire and provide ongoing support at 3 and 6 months into your graduate’s employment. Our RISE Talent Pool is now live!”

RISE has already helped to match businesses in our region with graduate talent. North East Derbyshire-based urban drainage and environmental consultancy, RES Environmental recently employed Keele University graduate James England, after being matched with him through the scheme.

Alan Ayris, Managing Director at RES Environmental said: “Recruitment can be difficult in this sector and there are additional challenges to interviewing and sourcing new graduates because we can’t dig into their past projects and technical skills in the same way that we would with an established engineer. This is where RISE came in and made a huge impact. The RISE team are skilled at matching people to roles and identifying the additional support a business needs.

“RISE helped us pinpoint the wider traits and knowledge-base we’re seeking and supported us to explore these qualities with candidates during interviews. The traditional recruitment methods we employ can feel like a lottery, but the support offered through RISE significantly reduced the risk for us. We now feel better placed to progress our plans to create more graduate roles in the business.”

RISE is delivered in partnership with Sheffield City Council, Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield and is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020.

You can find out more by visiting the RISE website, or by contacting Sarah Stanley via email: sarah@risescr.co.uk 

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Spireites Trust visit local schools during Black History Month

Chesterfield FC Community Trust arranged a series of school visits in October as part of Black History Month.

The Trust has continued to work with the African Caribbean Community Association of Chesterfield (ACCAC), delivering a series of workshops across Chesterfield and North-East Derbyshire about Black History, BAME role models, the Windrush generation and equality.

Lud Ramsey, chair of Chesterfield ACCAC, said: “I believe the most important equality work we deliver must start at school level.

“This is to ensure the future adult work force of our country will have a better knowledge of people in their community.

“Having a better understanding of seeing equality and diversity is a strength and not a weakness.”

Working alongside the ACCAC, visits were made to Ridgeway Primary School, William Rhodes Primary School, Woodthorpe C of E Primary School, Eckington Junior School and St Joseph’s Catholic & Church of England Primary School.

Lud shared his personal story, which included footage of his appearances on Gladiators and Ninja Warrior! Here are a few quotes from teachers, participants and Chesterfield FC Community Trust staff:

Jayne Jackson, assistant headteacher at William Rhodes Primary & Nursery School, said: “Thank you so much for the inspiring visit from Lud. Please pass on our thanks and admiration.

“His visit has left an inspirational and lasting impact on our children and the class teachers.”

Maisie (Year 6), who was a part of the workshop at William Rhodes Primary School, said: “Lud told us about Rosa Parks being arrested because she wouldn’t give up her seat to a white person and how Muhammad Ali wasn’t allowed into a restaurant because he was black, even though he was a World Champion boxer.

“I think Lud is an amazing person who has worked hard to get where he is. I would definitely recommend him to other schools.”

Esme (Year 5), who was a part of the workshop at Ridgeway Primary School, commented: “We learnt that back in the day, black people were treated unfairly. They were used as slaves and had to be segregated from white people, which we now know is completely unfair!”

Robert Stevenson, Premier League co-ordinator at the Community Trust, said: “It has been great to visit schools and have Lud talk about Black History.

“He is really inspirational in his own right from what he has done in his career as a firefighter, as well as having his own battles against equality and diversity.

“At the Trust, we feel that this it is important for children to understand the importance of equality and implement it into their everyday lives.”

Chesterfield Football Club supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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Chesterfield Borough Council named among Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers

Chesterfield Borough Council is celebrating after being named as one of the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers in England.

The council placed 82nd in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers which ranks the very best of England’s large apprenticeship employers, with employers recognised for providing some of the most successful apprenticeship programmes over the previous 12 months.

Chesterfield Borough Council currently employs more than 40 apprentices and has done a lot of work to promote apprenticeships throughout the borough by demonstrating the value of apprenticeships and through its pioneering ‘Apprentice Town’ project.

Councillor Jean Innes, cabinet member for business transformation and customers, said: “I’m delighted that we have been recognised in this way for the work we do with apprentices. We were the first town in the UK to declare itself an ‘Apprentice Town’ and we are committed to ensuring that young people in Chesterfield can build the skills and careers they want because this is key to ensuring that we are a thriving borough.

“We want Chesterfield to be a town where young people, businesses and parents think apprenticeship first and the council has to lead by example. That is why we have more than 40 apprentices working across the organisation in a wide range of disciplines including project management, legal services and commercial services.”

The council has apprentices working in almost every service area and they are helping ensure that the council has skilled individuals for the future.

Paul Davis, who is taking part in an apprenticeship programme with the council working towards a CIPFA Professional Qualification (Level 7), said: “I wanted to do the an apprenticeship with Chesterfield Borough Council because it allowed me to study further and to progress within my area of work. The apprenticeship gave me a greater understanding of the authority’s finances and management which I could apply directly to my everyday work for the council and enhance my future prospects with a globally recognised qualification.

“I would definitely recommend apprenticeships to other people as they are great way to learn and it provides you the opportunity to progress further in your career with the added benefit of not being left with a heavy burden of student debt at the end.”

Rachel O’Neil, assistant director for customers, commissioning and change, said: “I’m delighted that we have been recognised with this award for the work we do employing apprentices. Our apprenticeship programme provides the council with highly skilled individuals and in return help ensure they can build a career and a future they are proud of with the council.”

Miles Thirnwell, who recently completed a Housing/Property Management Level two apprenticeship with distinction whilst working for the council, said: “After leaving University this was a difficult time in terms of deciding on an alternative career path. However looking back, I am incredibly pleased with my decision of applying for an apprenticeship and despite the fact that they are often overlooked, they can provide an endless amount of opportunities and the provision of skills you need to develop in your desired career.

“My knowledge and skills were constantly progressing as I was always learning something new, whether this was in the office or whilst carrying out practical tasks throughout the borough. With Chesterfield Borough Council being eager to progress young employees and apprentices, this allowed my knowledge and experiences to develop even further as I was given access to training along with key college courses.”

Chesterfield Borough Council is just one of nine Local Government organisations to feature in the top 100.

Chesterfield Borough Council launched ‘Apprentice Town’ in 2017. It is run in partnership by Chesterfield Borough Council, Destination Chesterfield, the local business community, apprenticeship providers and The Apprentice Town steering group in order to raise awareness of apprenticeship activities and promote all aspects of apprenticeship provision.

2020 is the first year a ranking of the top 100 apprenticeship providers has been compiled. Find out more about ‘Apprentice Town’ here

apprentice town steering group

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Derbyshire County Council offers free careers advice for those who need it

Derbyshire County Council says it is offering free careers advice to anyone who is aged over 19, or anyone who is 18 and not working or in education. They can ask for free advice on:

  • Training courses – including how to get funding
  • Career planning – including help to understand the current labour market, identifying skills, looking at new career paths and routes into employment
  • How to write a CV or update an existing one
  • How to write covering letters that will gain the attention of prospective employers
  • Helpful tips on finding new employment such as making the most of ‘Find a Job’, using social media and exploring the hidden labour market guidance on how to write an application form and relating it to a possible interview

Appointments are either offered on the phone, or by video call. Advice is also available by email or text.

Cabinet Member for Young People, Councillor Alex Dale said: “We can offer advice to those who may have been affected by the changes to the economy due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“If you have been made redundant and need help then please get in touch and our friendly and knowledgeable team can help you with your CV, offer advice on training, or suggest a change of career.
“There is government funding earmarked for training and job creation, and our team of career coaches can help you to find out more.”

The team can also offer advice on interview skills, including video interviews and advice on volunteering and work experience opportunities on offer across the county.

You can find out more by visiting the County Council’s website. Find out more about working in Chesterfield here. 

Chesterfield is the first town in the UK to declare itself an Apprentice Town – demonstrating its commitment to growing the future and careers of young people alongside business and the economy by retaining and developing young talent in the town in order to attract more employers to invest here. Find out more about apprenticeships in Chesterfield

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Essential Site Skills Director Shortlisted for Learning Leader of the Year

Essential Site Skills are proud to announce that their Training & Consultancy Director, Darren O’Neill, has been nominated for Learning Leader of the Year at the prestigious Learning Awards 2021.

It’s been another incredible 12 months for Darren, who has worked tirelessly as Essential Site Skills have adapted to face all the challenges that 2020 has thrown their way. Under his direction, ESS have introduced new ways of providing the training that workplaces need during this difficult time, all while maintaining and improving the overall level of quality across the board.

Darren has worked his way up to a leadership role, starting out as a trainer after leaving the armed forces. His training expertise and knowledge of the industry has allowed him to work his way up to become an industry leader in learning and development.

The Learning Awards are an annual event that celebrates outstanding individuals in the world of learning and development, run by The Learning and Performance Institute (LPI). Receiving one of these awards is the ultimate accolade for anyone working in the industry.

Darren said he was “super thrilled and very humbled” by the news, saying he was “thankful to be able to work alongside some fantastic talented colleagues at Essential Site Skills Ltd, and clients alike, across the Learning & Performance Industry.”

This is just the latest success for the company at the Learning Awards. At the 2019 awards, ESS were finalists in the Learning Provider of the Year category, with Training and Consultancy Manager, Michael Harcourt, winning the Rising Star Silver Award. Last year also saw ESS trainer Matt Fletcher nominated for the Rising Star award.

The Learning Awards 2021 will take place on 18th February at London’s Hilton Hotel.

Essential Site Skills Ltd supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Bridge Help brings new talent to bridging finance

Bridge Help’s latest appointment brings new talent to the male-dominated bridging and finance industry.

Phoebe Sellars has been appointed as Business Development and Loan Manager at the Chesterfield-based bridging finance company.

Phoebe brings a background in retail management and law to the brand new role at the company. She was most recently employed in the Wills team at a leading firm of solicitors.

Her interest in and subsequent move to the bridging finance sector has been triggered by her father and chief executive of Bridge Help, Chris Sellars.

She explained: “I was previously working for a legal firm and my role was furloughed during lockdown. During this time I witnessed the fact that the bridging loan industry didn’t stop. It was very much business as usual and deals were still being done and no two days were the same. I loved the proactive and flexible approach to working in the face of adversity. I am a person that likes to be busy and challenged and it was a career move that excited me.”

Within the newly created role, Phoebe will be responsible for building relationships with Bridge Help’s broker and client network as well as managing the company’s loan pipeline.

She added: “I am surrounded by an experienced and knowledgeable team, including the bridging industry stalwart Danny Power. With the business plans we have in place I am excited by what the future holds for both me and Bridge Help.”

Phoebe is one of three new appointments made at the growing firm since the start of the year. The company also made the move to larger premises last month to accommodate its increasing workforce, all of which is instrumental in achieving Bridge Help’s ambitions to achieve a £100 million loan book by 2024.

For further information about Bridge Help visit www.bridgehelp.co.uk or follow the company on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

Bridge Help supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Rosewood Wealth Management take on new apprentice

Independent financial advisor Rosewood Wealth Management has added new apprentice, Abigail Denman to its team.

Whilst studying Level 3 Business at Chesterfield College, Abigail developed a passion for finance. Abigail’s ambitious attitude at the outset of her career in the sector, her engagement with analytical challenges, as well as her natural talent for business and finance made her the perfect candidate for Rosewood’s apprenticeship scheme.

Upon joining the company, Abigail said: “When I saw the opportunity of starting an apprenticeship with Rosewood, I was so excited as I saw this a chance to start my career in finance. Donna and Shannan have really embraced me into the team and provided me with all the support and a specialised finance apprenticeship provider to ensure my journey is a success. I am excited for what the future holds.”

According to the team at Rosewood: “On top of her skillset and dedication, what makes Abigail such a good fit is her friendly manner and bubbly personality. We’re sure that you will agree when you’re greeted at the office for your next appointment!”

Rosewood Wealth Management believe in providing all clients with a truly individualised independent financial advice service. Whether you are just starting your property journey and buying your first home, looking towards your first investment, saving for your future, exploring pension options or looking to enjoy your wealth, they are there to help and guide you. Rosewood was founded upon the fundamental principles of personal, intimate support and frank, honest advice tailored to the needs of the client.

They aim to help you achieve the best results from your financial planning by offering financial advice in all areas, including mortgages, investments, retirement advice, pensions, equity release, savings wealth management, and insurance.

You can find out more about the benefits of taking on an apprentice here

Rosewood Wealth Management supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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Free school lunches to be provided by Chesterfield FC Community Trust

Chesterfield FC Community Trust will be providing free school lunches for those in need during the October half-term break.

In an effort to support the local community, the Trust will help families in need and ensure that children across the district are provided with food.

Keith Jackson, the Trust’s head of sport and activities, said: “We know there will be families in our region who will struggle to put food on the table for their children during half term, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We felt we had to support those families. This is about our town pulling together and looking after each other. We will do everything we can to make sure no child in Chesterfield goes hungry this half term.

“Local businesses and friends of the Trust have offered to lend support, which is a great help.

“Lifehouse Church – a valued partner of the Trust – are backing the project and they have arranged for Jacksons The Bakers to provide 100 sandwiches, 100 sausage rolls and 100 muffins every day, which is fantastic.

“We are also grateful to Tesco, Print Digital Media and The Corrugated Case Company Ltd for their generous support.”

Lunches, to include a sandwich and a snack, will be available to collect from Chester’s Den play centre from 12pm to 2pm every week day during the half-term break. Organisers will endeavour to have a vegetarian option available every day but cannot guarantee allergy-free food preparation due to the scale of the project.

A one-way system will be in place with an outdoor queuing system. All staff working on this project will be temperature checked and wear appropriate face coverings and gloves.

The offer is open to any child currently receiving free school dinners but also, in exceptional circumstances, others who need support at this time. To qualify, the child’s name and school must be quoted, along with a parent’s National Insurance number.

Anyone who would like to offer support by volunteering to help with queuing systems or have appropriate food hygiene certificates should email enquiries@spireitestrust.org.uk.

 

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2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards winners named

Chesterfield has crowned its best high street businesses, individuals, market stall traders and events of 2020.

Independent womenswear retailer, Dotique has taken the top title of Retailer of the Year in the 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards. Judges described Dotique as ‘a fantastic business that always gives back to the community.’

In addition to the coveted Retailer of the Year title, Dotique was also named as the Fashion and Footwear Retailer of the Year. Based on Chatsworth Road, the business was established in 2018 by Dorothy Robinson.

Delighted with the double win, Dorothy said: “I am so very happy to win. I love Chesterfield and am supported by fantastic staff and customers who have spurred me on since opening the business. Thank you to everybody that has supported me and voted for me.”

Dotique was one of 15 winners named as Chesterfield’s very best shops, market stalls, events, apprentices, projects and businesses in the town.

Usually a black-tie awards ceremony at Casa Hotel, amidst the challenges of the pandemic this year’s awards ceremony was held online and hosted by street magician Steve Faulkner.

Previously known as the Chesterfield Retail Awards and now in its seventh year, this year’s High Street Awards saw a number of new names and faces in the winners’ line-up. Pinewood Properties, Curious Goods, Huckleberry Willow, Steph’s Sustainable Stuff, Warhammer and Shop Indie were all first-time winners in the awards.

Tara Underhill, Senior Destination Chesterfield Coordinator and organiser of the annual awards said: “Despite the challenges that Covid presented to this year’s Chesterfield High Street Awards, they are certainly the most memorable.

“Never have high street businesses needed our support more. It was an honour and a privilege for the Destination Chesterfield team to be able to organise an event to celebrate this hard-working sector. Each and every business and individual on our high street deserves both recognition and support. Well done to everyone involved.”

Cllr Amanda Serjeant, Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield and Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, added: “It was a pleasure to be able to join everyone virtually for the Chesterfield High Street Awards 2020. What a year it has been. Yet the people behind the town’s high street businesses have shown such resilience.

“It is crucial that we all get behind local businesses during this time of uncertainty and beyond. Chesterfield Borough Council has adopted an ambitious plan to support and rebuild the local economy. Without a doubt, further challenges will lay ahead. But we will continue to work closely with Destination Chesterfield and Chesterfield Champions to promote the town as a place to work, live, visit and invest. We will also continue to collaborate with local businesses, invest in our economy, showcase our successful businesses and everything that is great about Chesterfield.”

Dorothy added: “It was lovely to be part of the awards. Thank you everybody. It’s important that everybody supports each other.”

The winning businesses, individuals and events in the 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards include:

Fashion and Footwear Retailer of the Year and Retailer of the Year 2020
Dotique

Dorothy Robinson, owner of Dotique said: “I am so very happy to win. I love Chesterfield and am supported by fantastic staff and customers who have spurred me on since opening the business. Customers are at the heart of everything that we do and we’re constantly striving to improve the customer experience. Thank you to everybody that has supported me and voted for Dotique.”

Hair and Beauty Business of the Year
Belle Vie

Belle Vie scooped the award for the second year running. Alysha Bradley, owner of Belle Vie said: “It feels amazing to win the award for the second year in a row. Our clients have been so supportive this year. Thank you to them and the team.”

Food and Drink Retailer of the Year
Brampton Brewery

Chris Radford, Managing Director of Brampton Brewery, said: “Although we’re operating in difficult times, we love working in the industry. All the team is passionate about what we do and I think that comes through when we’re serving customers.”

High Street Business of the Year
Pinewood Properties

The business really stood out to the judges for its speedy response on social media. Stacey Davies-Bowler, Managing Director of Pinewood Properties, said: “We are so pleased to win. The last three years have been incredible. We’ve won virtually every customer-service award in our industry. We do ordinary things exceptionally well. We are made up to win the Chesterfield High Street Award.”

Home, Gifts and Leisure Retailer of the Year
Huckleberry Willow

The store was commended by judges for having helpful and knowledgeable staff. Luke Shah, Managing Director of Huckleberry Willow said “We are delighted to win the award. It was very unexpected. We’re a family business and have been in Chesterfield since 1976. It is amazing to have the support of our customers.”

Market Trader of the Year
Steph’s Sustainable Stuff

Owner of the first zero waste stall on Chesterfield’s Saturday’s Market and monthly Artisan Market, Steph Mannion, said: “The award puts green shopping on the map in Chesterfield. It is awesome to be recognised for bringing zero waste shopping to Chesterfield. I am so proud of Chesterfield and the market. There is no need to go to a supermarket. From meat, veg and dry goods to toiletry and household refills and environmentally friendly products -Chesterfield’s market has it covered.”

Independent Retailer of the Year
Fred’s Haberdashery

Judges praised the business’ use of technology to connect people online. Emily Lord, owner of Fred’s Haberdashery said: “We were really surprised and shocked to win. It feels great after so much hard work. Having taken over the business in February just before lockdown, we’ve had to work really hard to get the website and social media up and running but it has helped keep us connected to our customers and enabled them to keep crafting.”

National/Multiple Retailer of the Year
Warhammer

The friendly and knowledgeable service at Warhammer stood out for the judges. Andrew Ward, manager of the Warhammer store in Chesterfield, said: “I was really chuffed to win. We’re a unique store in the town with knowledgeable staff all committed to giving customers a really great experience when they visit us. We are really grateful to all our customers for their support.”

Retail Apprentice of the Year
Molly Bradbury, Arvato

Lindsey Phillips, Senior Rent Officer at Arvato CRM Solutions UK commented: “I am so very proud of Molly as she is a huge asset to our department and is so deserving of this award. I have no doubt that Molly will continue to grow and I look forward to supporting and working with her in the future. She is an exceptional member of our team.”

Apprentice Employer of the Year
Therapy Lounge

The beauty business, which is based in Hasland has employed apprentices for more than 10 years. Rebecca McNair, an apprentice beauty therapist at Therapy Lounge, said: “We were delighted and surprised to win the award. We’ve all been working so hard to do the best we can for our clients during Covid.”

Best Customer Service
Curious Goods

Owner Jonny Kudibal said: “It’s fabulous to win. We sell a lot of holistic and alternative therapy products so it’s important we give the right advice to help customers make the best decision. We have great staff who have been with us for a number of years and they really do try to make a difference to all our customers. Thank you to all our customers supporting us through Covid.”

Best Town Centre Event
Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival

Organised by Edge Events, this is the second consecutive year the Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival has won the Best Town Centre Event category. Richard Alsop, Managing Director of Edge Events, said: “We are so proud to receive this award. We always put our heart and soul into the Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival and it is so encouraging to have the support that we do from the public, the traders and the council.

“It has added an extra bit of specialness to the award receiving it during the tough times our industry is currently facing. We look forward to organising a great festival, hopefully in 2021.”

Future High Street Award
Vicar Lane Shopping Centre Big Screen

Sarah Bowler, Office Administrator and Commercialisation Coordinator at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, said: “We’re over the moon to have won the Future High Street Award for our Big Screen.

“The installation of the screen is one of the latest improvements that Alterx, our owners, have made to the shopping centre since purchasing it in December 2018. With it we hope to create an animated focal point and lively meeting place for visitors and shoppers to socialise and spend time within the town centre. We’re also working with local partners to help promote businesses within the area and push out key messages about the town centre and all of the wonderful things happening around us.”

Best New Store
Shop Indie

Lisa Swift, partner at Shop Indie which opened in October last year, said: “We were really delighted when we heard our name called out at the awards. It’s lovely that the people of Chesterfield have really taken on board our shop and love our products. It’s nice to offer Chesterfield something different.”

The 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards were supported and made possible by a number of sponsors, including Adorn Jewellers, Apprentice Town (led by Chesterfield Borough Council), BRM Solicitors, Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College Group, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), eBusiness Works, Greatest Hits Radio (North Derbyshire), JP Fire Safety Solutions, Maybe*, The Pavements Shopping Centre, Q2 Creative and Redbrik Estate Agents.

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