Development

Luxury salon Feather & Fern brings glamour to Chesterfield town centre

Chesterfield’s newest and largest luxury hair salon, Feather & Fern is officially open, with owners Sara Fern and Kerry Featherstone promising clients ‘a warm and relaxing environment with a touch of glamour’.

Feather & Fern, has opened on Knifesmithgate in Unit 1 at Elder Way, following the agreement of a 10-year lease on the prominent 1,636 sq. ft unit in February.

In just nine weeks, the space has been transformed into a 10-chair hair and beauty salon.

This is the first business for owners Kerry and Sarah. Speaking about their journey to business ownership, Kerry said: “The excitement has overtaken the stress of creating a brand new hair salon. It’s been an incredible, fun journey and we are really excited to be finally open and welcoming clients to the amazing space Sara and I have created.”

Feather & Fern boasts six stylists, a beauty and cosmetics specialist, along with two apprentices.

The opening of Feather & Fern marks another exciting tenant for the former Co-Op department store in Chesterfield town centre which has been transformed into a Premier Inn hotel and eight street level units by Jomast.

Feather & Fern is located in what was the electrical department of the Co-Op located on Knifesmithgate. The business joins HotPod Yoga and Bottle & Thyme as tenants of Chesterfield’s newest leisure quarter.

The opening of Feather & Fern means that all three corner units at Elder Way are now fully occupied. Four street level units remain on Elder Way and just one unit remains available on Knifesmithgate. Developer Jomast reports strong interest in the remaining Knifesmithgate unit.

Welcoming Kerry and Sara to Elder Way, Mark Hill, Jomast’s Commercial Property Director said: “The salon is stunning, and I wish them much success for the future of their new business. Feather & Fern is a fantastic addition to the vibrant community we are building at Elder Way.”

Elder Way continues to go from strength-to-strength since welcoming its first tenant to the street level units last year. Last month, the 92-bed hotel, which is located on the upper floors of the development, was named as the Hotel of the Year by Premier Inn.

Investment continues to be made across Chesterfield town centre including the purchase of the former Marks and Spencers store, the Spread Eagle reopening and infrastructure works in the Market Square.

If you are interested in commercial space in and around Chesterfield town centre enquire here.

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Chesterfield showcases £2 billion regeneration vision at UKREiiF 2025

Chesterfield is set to unveil its ambitious £2 billion regeneration programme at the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds from May 20–22, positioning itself as one of the most exciting growth areas in the East Midlands.

Chesterfield’s presence will focus on a wide range of investment-ready opportunities across housing, town centre regeneration, green industries, advanced manufacturing, retail, leisure, and tourism.

Attendees can explore Chesterfield’s £2 billion transformation journey, learn more about current developments, and connect with decision-makers directly.

The borough is a key player in the East Midlands’ advanced manufacturing sector, anchored by the highly successful Markham Vale enterprise zone at Junction 29a of the M1. Home to dozens of businesses and built with infrastructure to scale, Markham Vale exemplifies the strategic commercial opportunity that Chesterfield is keen to promote.

Further strengthening the borough’s investment case is its inclusion in the East Midlands Investment Zone, with two sites at Staveley offering financial incentives for companies in green technologies and advanced manufacturing.

Chesterfield’s town centre is undergoing a major transformation, with investment creating vibrant opportunities for new homes, leisure, retail, hotel developments, and modern office space. These enhancements are not only improving the quality of life for residents but also attracting a new wave of businesses and visitors.

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, commented: “Chesterfield’s regeneration story is one of ambition, collaboration, and real momentum. We’re delivering well-connected, future-proofed developments that unlock value across multiple sectors—from housing and advanced manufacturing to town centre regeneration and the visitor economy.

“With a proactive local authority, strategic location, and a shared commitment to inclusive growth, we’re creating an environment where investors and businesses can thrive. We are ready to welcome your business.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “Chesterfield is on the rise. Over the past decade, we’ve seen a wave of transformation—and we’re just getting started.

“Our borough is becoming a magnet for innovation, sustainable growth, and talent. From housing and advanced manufacturing to retail and hospitality, we’re inviting investors and partners to be part of Chesterfield’s next exciting chapter.”

Destination Chesterfield will join a united delegation in the brand-new East Midlands Pavilion, which will present a bold new vision for inclusive growth across the region.

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward will lead the East Midlands team, which also includes the leadership team from the East Midlands Combined County Authority, Destination Chesterfield, Marketing Derby, Invest in Nottingham, Invest in Derbyshire and East Midlands Freeport.

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction

Iconic Chesterfield department store snapped up by developer

Nottingham-based ALB Group has acquired the former Marks and Spencer department store in one of Chesterfield town centre’s most prominent buildings.

The developer stepped in to make the deal for an undisclosed fee before the 68,000 sq ft premises, comprising two adjacent buildings, was due to be offered at auction, for a guide price of over £3m.

Marks and Spencer vacated the store in High Street, Chesterfield, over two years ago when it relocated to nearby Ravenside Retail Park.

The premises is distributed over five floors and occupies a prime location next door to Primark and opposite Chesterfield’s historic open air market, in Market Place, which has been undergoing a major refurbishment.

ALB Group is currently in advanced negotiations with a major retailer interested in taking up part of the ground floor of the building. The firm is seeking additional tenants for the remaining ground floor commercial space.

The upper floors are expected to be either residential, office space or commercial use pending further consultations with ALB’s architect John Morgan, of Nottingham-based architect Leonard Design.

Arran Bailey, managing director of ALB Group, said: “We’re delighted to have secured the deal to purchase this magnificent property.”

Oliver Marshall, director of FHP Property Consultants, which is marketing the building on behalf of ALB Group, said: “While we are close to securing a major tenant for part of the ground floor of the building, we are seeking additional businesses to take up the remaining space.

“There will be up to 10,000 square feet available, which could be let to a single tenant or carved up as appropriate to sizes ranging from around 3,000 square feet. All interest will be considered, whether it’s from retail businesses, leisure, cafés or restaurants.”

ALB Group, which has gained a reputation over the past few years for regenerating buildings in town and city centres across the UK, recently transformed another large property in Chesterfield town centre just a stone’s throw from the M&S building.

Last year, the developer launched 55 high-spec apartments, built on the upper floors of Burlington House, in Burlington Street, replacing the once run-down vacant office space.

ALB Group has become known for town centre revitalisation through a combination of cheaper, more flexible lease contracts with businesses and bringing the vacant upper storeys of commercial buildings back into use, largely through the creation of much-needed residential units.

The company has transformed high streets in places including Ipswich, Stoke-on-Trent, Derby, Huddersfield and Birkenhead, delivering significantly increased footfall in each of those areas.

ALB Group is known for its regeneration of the Bridlesmith Gate area of Nottingham, where it purchased 14 buildings and has successfully given the once-struggling city centre location a vibe that has been likened to London’s trendy Carnaby Street.

Arran said: “Chesterfield is definitely on the up. Like all town and city centres it has suffered from the increase in online shopping, the cost-of-living crisis and the relocation of larger chains to out-of-town retail parks.

“But the mood is shifting in a positive direction, and we hope to be able to provide a catalyst to that now that we have acquired one of the town’s best-located and most historic buildings.

“We can guarantee that we will help to breathe new life into this area, just like we did with Burlington House.”

Businesses interested in letting the available space on the ground floor of the building can contact Oliver Marshall on 07887 787885 or email oliver@fhp.co.uk

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

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Chesterfield’s Central Technology expands with latest acquisition

Chesterfield’s Central Technology has announced the acquisition of yoko:10, marking a significant milestone in the growth and evolution of the group.

This strategic move strengthens its position as a leading provider of consultative technological and business solutions and underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional service to our clients.

Over the past eight years, yoko:10 has built a strong reputation for delivering Microsoft Consultancy services across the UK. Their expertise spans SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, Purview Data Governance & Data Security, Copilot, Intranets, Viva Engage and Power Platform, providing services for planning, deployment, governance, and adoption of Microsoft cloud technologies to help businesses optimise their digital workplace.

As part of this acquisition, yoko:10 will take office space in each of the Central Technology offices and will become the Microsoft Consultancy provider for the Central Technology Group. The legal aspects of the acquisition were expertly managed by fellow Chesterfield Champion organisation, BRM, setting the foundations for a smooth and efficient integration process.

Rob Longden, Managing Director at Central Technology, remarks: “yoko:10’s values and approach align seamlessly with ours, making this integration a natural step forward. If you’re curious, their name translates to ‘sharing best practice’, which reflects the yoko:10 approach to consultancy.

“The combined strength of yoko:10 and Central Technology will enable us to expand our consultative capabilities. Together, we are positioned to serve as a single point of contact for our clients’ technology needs, providing seamless and comprehensive solutions supported by our network of regional offices.”

CEO smiles to colleagues across table during meeting

This acquisition marks a significant step in Central Technology’s ongoing growth strategy and serves as a foundation for further business expansion. With yoko:10 now part of Central Technology Group, the business is well-equipped to meet evolving client needs and drive innovation in the technology sector. It reflects the long-term vision of building a strong organisation capable of adapting to any challenges and opportunities ahead.

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

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RMS Locotec announces Chesterfield move, strengthening town’s rail sector

RMS Locotec, the industrial railway specialist, has consolidated its leasing and maintenance operations in Chesterfield – home to Europe’s largest cluster of rail related businesses.

The move brings together teams and assets from multiple locations into an existing transport and engineering facility less than 500 yards from the grave of George Stephenson, the father of industrial railways.

RMS Locotec has also appointed Lauren Parker to the new role of General Manager. Lauren, who joined RMS in 2010, will now be responsible for growing the business, strengthening relationships with existing customers and expanding into new markets.

RMS Locotec leases locomotives, provides rolling stock maintenance and engineering support, as well as infrastructure services to customers at depots, ports, terminals and quarries across Britain.

Lauren Parker, General Manager of RMS Locotec, said: “I’m really looking forward to deepening our relationships with existing RMS customers, so we can help meet both their current and future needs. I also want to expand the business by sharing our industrial railway expertise and capabilities with new clients.

“As we consolidate our business in Chesterfield, we will also be looking to play an active role in organisations that promote both our sector and the strategic value of industrial railways.”

RMS Locotec currently has 16 shunting locomotives on-lease with a variety of passenger and freight operators, as well as with customers in the logistics, shipping and aggregate sectors. The business also has a further six locomotives available for spot, temporary or long-term hire.

RMS Locotec infrastructure teams inspect and maintain track assets at more than eight locations across the UK.

Chesterfield is home to a skilled rail sector, and is investing in facilities to strengthen its local talent pool. This includes the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe), currently under development next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

Find out more about the benefits of locating your business here.

 

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Chesterfield entrepreneur embarks on new business challenge at 77

At 77 years old, a Chesterfield entrepreneur is proving age is but a number, embarking on a new non-profit business journey.

After a lifetime in Local Government and 17 years in retirement, Keith Wood has decided to “rise again from the ashes” as The Yorkshire Fenix, starting up a range of not-for-profit ventures on a business basis in our town.

Yorkshire Fenix Enterprises will specialise in several services, including customised work and leisure wear featuring unique designs, creative writing, public speaking and local venue brokering.

As a creative writer, Keith’s first local historical novel features Chesterfield in the mid-18th Century and is due for release in May. As if this is not enough to fill his time, Keith also works with Dr Elizabeth Rosario, GP and coach, who helps individuals do their best for ageing parents so that they can enjoy life again.

Keith’s philosophy is to embrace new technology whilst still retaining old-fashioned values of good service and value for money. All profits are set to be donated to local charities, which Keith is now inviting to become involved.

Speaking about his business journey so far in our town, Keith commented: “Networking has helped me greatly, and I think this is the way ahead, especially for start-up businesses. I have been helped and encouraged by Caroline Moore from Securit GB – The Speed Shop, a print company, who supply my customised clothing and business cards, operating out of The Glass Yard, Sheffield Road.

“I would also like to thank Ruth Postins, Façade Consultant in Modern Methods of Construction, Kerry Lancaster of Shine On Valeting Services and Patrick and Meg, the new owners of Ye Royal Oak who have helped in my literary ventures… The pub actually features in my novel!

“These people have all freely offered to help me set up my business, and I can’t thank them enough.”

Keith adds: “My adopted home town has a lot to offer, lots of historic buildings to discover, a fabulous library, good local leisure amenities like the Winding Wheel and friendly residents.

“It’s a traditional market town close to beautiful countryside in the middle of England with decent transport links and an ambitious business sector under the banner of Destination Chesterfield.”

Keith is currently constructing his website, queries can be directed to him via email: keith@yorkshirefenix.com.

Looking for support to get your business idea off the ground here in Chesterfield? Find out more about the support available here. 

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Entrepreneurship and high growth set to benefit from partnership between Chamber and University

East Midlands Chamber has entered an exclusive new strategic partnership with the University of Derby centred on entrepreneurship and high growth.

The collaboration will see the University, already a long-term strategic partner of the Chamber, work together on areas like decarbonisation, innovation, joint bidding for public sector business support and development of funded programmes for firms in Derby and Derbyshire.

The University of Derby is headline partner of Generation Next – the Chamber-powered network for inspiring and building the confidence and connections of young professionals and future leaders in the 18-35 age group.

East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles said: “Entrepreneurship and high growth go hand in hand, and as a region known for innovation, making and producing, it makes sense to turbocharge those strengths.

“Having been a strategic partner of the Chamber for some time, and as headline partner of Generation Next, I’m delighted to expand on this productive relationship. The University of Derby is well established for its leading research, its approach to decarbonisation and for being an advocate of business growth.

“I’m certain this new chapter of our collaboration will bring even greater benefit to Derby, Derbyshire and the wider East Midlands.”

The University of Derby Associate Provost of Industry Engagement Matt Snowden said: “We are proud to have a longstanding relationship with the Chamber and this new partnership is set to strengthen this even further.

“This relationship is incredibly valuable to the University, as it provides us with opportunities to connect with Chamber businesses and create avenues to employability for students through placements and internships. It also provides a platform for the University to work collaboratively in supporting the regional economy by exchanging skills, fostering innovation and providing essential business support.”

East Midlands Chamber and University of Derby support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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200th anniversary of Chesterfield’s iconic role in railway history set for grand celebration

Chesterfield’s pivotal role in the birth of the world’s railway system is set to be commemorated thanks to a grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Holy Trinity Church, the final resting place of George Stephenson, has been awarded £240,600 to launch the project that will honour the legacy of the ‘Father of Railways’ and explore the lasting impact of railway engineering in Chesterfield.

Made possible thanks to National Lottery players, the project comes at a time of renewed interest in railway history, with 2025 marking the 200th anniversary of the birth of the modern railway.

On 27 September 1825, George Stephenson’s steam-powered Locomotion No. 1 travelled 26 miles between Shildon, Darlington, and Stockton, carrying hundreds of passengers to great fanfare.

It set in motion a train of events that changed the world forever. Holy Trinity, which is situated on Newbold Road, has long been a site of interest for railway enthusiasts and local schools, but this initiative will significantly expand its role as a visitor destination and educational hub.

With additional funding support from EMR (£5,000), Cross Country Rail (£5,000), Raymond Ross Fund (£25,000) Graysons Solicitors (£1,000) and Holy Trinity Church itself (£16,000), the project will enhance visitor facilities, create new interpretation materials, and develop engaging activities for schools, families, and the wider community.

The initiative will explore not only Stephenson’s life and engineering achievements but also the wider industrial history of Chesterfield. It will shed light on the Victorian-era expansion of the town, the development of the Clay Cross Company, and the town’s role in railway and coal mining history. The project will also commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Miners’ Strike, reflecting on the changes in industry that shaped the region.

Holy Trinity spring

Plans include:

  • The transformation of Holy Trinity’s community rooms into a dedicated visitor facility.
  • The creation of new interpretation materials highlighting Stephenson’s influence on Chesterfield and railway engineering.
  • A series of public events and celebrations marking the railway’s 200th anniversary.
  • Educational and engagement activities for schools and visitors, connecting communities with their industrial heritage.
  • Volunteer and learning opportunities to equip people with heritage and research skills.
  • A focus on sustainable transport and the future of railway engineering, ensuring the project connects the past with the present and future.

Reverend Jilly Hancock of Holy Trinity Church said: “We are delighted to have received this generous support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players and our funding partners, we can now ensure that George Stephenson’s story and Chesterfield’s rich railway heritage are celebrated and shared with future generations.”

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

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East Midlands Mayor calls on partners to make the case for regional investment

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, is beginning the countdown to the East Midlands taking centre stage at the UK’s biggest development showcase next month.

Mayor Claire will lead partners from across the East Midlands at the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) taking place in Leeds over the three days of 20-22 May, with 15,000 national and international investors and developers expected to attend.

At a dedicated launch event in Nottingham on 7 May, the Mayor will outline her vision and ambition for the East Midlands at UKREiiF and bring partners, businesses and stakeholders together ahead of the three day event later that month.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “UKREiiF is a marketplace for attracting investment into our region. Deals made there can lead to the development of commercial spaces, housing, and infrastructure – creating jobs during construction and beyond.

“This is the biggest opportunity our region has had, since we were created, to showcase the regeneration opportunities our region has to offer. I need businesses, developers and investors in the region to join me in making that case. Doing so together, means we can accelerate plans to revitalise our town centres, brownfield sites, or underused assets – turning them into places people want to live, work and visit.”

Alongside Mayor Claire who will lead the launch event, keynote speakers are Amy Harhoff, CEO, East Midlands Combined County Authority and Matt Christie, Director of External Relations and Content, UKREiiF.

The East Midlands will be strongly represented at UKREiiF by the senior leadership teams at East Midlands Combined County Authority, the East Midlands Freeport, Nottingham City Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council, Derbyshire County Council, Marketing Derby, Invest in Nottingham, Destination Chesterfield and Invest in Derbyshire.

Find out more about the East Midlands at UKREiiF

To register your interest in attending the launch event on 7 May, 6-8pm in Nottingham, please contact: communications@eastmidsdevo.org.uk

Perfectly located in the centre of the UK, Chesterfield is home to more than 3,000 businesses which benefit from the town’s excellent connectivity. For more information about locating your organisation in our town, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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Chesterfield Champions showcase success ahead of World Creativity and Innovation Day

With World Creativity and Innovation Day taking place on Monday 21st April 2025, organisations across Chesterfield are showcasing how local talent, collaboration, and forward-thinking ideas are driving change in the town—and beyond.

From cutting-edge software development to hands-on education projects, Chesterfield businesses and educators are working together to unlock creative potential and inspire the next generation.

Find out more about how creative and innovative busninesses in our network of Chesterfield Champions are continuing to drive forward our local economy.

University of Derby and Rolls-Royce pioneer future-focused education

Pictures by Beth Walsh Photography- University of Derby assignment/ December 2021

 

In a major step forward for business education, the University of Derby has announced a new accelerated two-year degree in partnership with Rolls-Royce. The BSc (Hons) International Business and AI will launch in September 2025 and is the first of its kind in the UK—aimed at preparing students for careers in the rapidly evolving landscape of international business and artificial intelligence.

Dr Mustabsar Awais, Course Leader at the University of Derby, explained: “As artificial intelligence reshapes industries and disrupts traditional business models, there is a need for graduates with the skills and ambition to design the world of the future.

“This exciting, accelerated learning degree will equip students with the skills to apply advanced technological solutions to today’s business problems, drive forward innovation and gain valuable experience for their CVs. We are delighted to be working with world-leading brand Rolls-Royce to power the next generation and future workforce.”

Students will develop technical skills in areas like big data, business analytics and global economics, with real-world projects and immersive activities delivered in partnership with Rolls-Royce.

Dr Nicola Lynch, Head of Derby Business School, added: “We are delighted to be further strengthening our partnership with Rolls-Royce, working collaboratively to understand what our country and world needs to grow, and to develop the practical skills and future talent to help us meet those requirements.

“Industry engagement is critical to the University of Derby, providing solutions to social and industrial challenges by delivering academic expertise, innovation and knowledge.

“We believe in the transformational power of education and our mission is to develop a pipeline of student and graduate talent with the skills to improve business services and communities all around the world.

“We are delighted to be partnering on such a unique and exciting programme, which we hope will provide students with a range of practical business and thought leadership skills, making them well placed for a range of high-quality graduate roles.”

This new course complements the University’s existing relationship with Rolls-Royce, including their joint work on the Nuclear Skills Academy, and will be housed in the state-of-the-art Cavendish Building—set to open in 2025 in Derby city centre.

Creativity through the lens: Supporting the next generation of photographers

 

Mike Jones Photography was proud to support a recent photography project in partnership with Chesterfield College, aimed at capturing the commercial architectural landscape of Chesterfield through the creative lens of local students.

“This project was a fantastic opportunity to inspire and mentor the next generation of photographers,” said Mike Jones, Founder of Mike Jones Photography. “It combined our passion for architecture with a real desire to give students a platform to explore professional photography in a meaningful and practical way.”

The initiative invited students to document a wide range of commercial buildings—from offices and shops to public and hospitality spaces—encouraging them to consider lighting, composition, and storytelling through imagery. Mike Jones Photography provided guidance and feedback throughout the project.

“It was incredibly rewarding to see how engaged and enthusiastic the students were,” Mike continued. “Watching their skills grow, and their creative confidence develop, reminded us why partnerships like this matter.”

As a proud Chesterfield Champion, Mike Jones Photography is committed to building stronger links between education and local business.

“These collaborations are essential—not only for developing local talent but for supporting the future of our local economy. When students can connect with industry professionals, they gain the experience and insight they need to succeed, and that has long-term benefits for everyone in the community.”

Innovation in action: Weightron leads the way in cloud technology

 

Local manufacturer, Weightron Bilanciai has unveiled its game-changing cloud software suite CENTRIXS, following a three-year R&D journey led by developers Connor and Callum.

The platform offers real-time data control and site automation for weighing solutions across global markets, marking a bold leap from traditional on-premises systems.

Connor and Callum led by Weightron’s Project and Innovations Director Darren Jones spent countless hours brainstorming and conceptualising their ideas.

Weightron unveiled their IWM (Itemised Waste Management) version to the world several months ago, working alongside a few chosen clients to Beta test the application and refining it where necessary whist garnering attention and praise from early adopters. Their innovative solution is quickly gaining traction, attracting businesses seeking reliable, secure, and efficient cloud software to control weighing applications and site automation.

As their user base grows, Weightron continues to improve and expand their software, with version two already under discussion. They are listening to user feedback, planning to introduce further new features and enhancements to meet the markets evolving needs.

Photography as a creative outlet: SA Photography launches school workshops

Award-winning travel photographer Scott Antcliffe of SA Photography has launched an exciting initiative bringing photography workshops to schools across the region.

Combining his background as a Specialist Special Needs Teacher with an acclaimed photography career, Scott’s workshops are designed to boost confidence, creativity, and self-expression in young people.

“Too often, creative children don’t have the right outlet to express themselves,” says Scott. “I want to create opportunities for young people to discover photography as a powerful form of self-expression and a potential career path. I found my dream job in my early-thirties-I want to show students that a creative future is possible with the right support and inspiration.”

Scott’s credentials in the photography world are remarkable. Recently named Wanderlust Magazine’s Travel Photographer of the Year, his work has been featured in The Times, The Telegraph, The Metro, New York Times, CNN Travel, and numerous other publications. He regularly contributes articles to the Nikon website and national photography magazines, and delivers talks and workshops at events, conventions, and camera clubs throughout the UK.

His photography career has taken him around the world, working with international tourism boards and capturing performances by global artists including Ed Sheeran, Calum Scott, Bryan Adams, Tom Grennan, Michael Bublé, and Paloma Faith.

“I’ve tested the water with workshops in Sheffield and Chesterfield to both primary and secondary schools. Feedback from both staff and children have been incredibly positive. I look forward to working with more schools in the coming months,” Scott added.

Through this new initiative, Scott hopes to inspire the next generation of creatives by sharing both his technical expertise and his journey from the classroom to the world stage. The workshops are tailored to different age groups and abilities, with a focus on accessibility, confidence-building, and nurturing a lifelong love of creativity.

Driving innovation on the road: iTrack reaches new milestones

Based at The Glass Yard on Whittington Moor, iTrack Ltd. has rapidly become a standout success in the field of vehicle and asset tracking, recently surpassing 5,000 users on its iTrack Live software.

Managing Director Will Sissons explained: “Surpassing 5,000 users is a testament to the trust individuals and businesses have placed in us.” It’s an exciting time here at iTrack and I couldn’t be prouder of the incredible progress we’ve made over the last few years since moving into the Glass Yard on Whittington Moor in 2022.

“Surpassing 5,000 users on our iTrack Live tracking software is a testament to the trust individuals and businesses have placed in us to keep their fleets and assets safe and monitored in real-time. We’ve also processed over 25,000 orders and earned an ‘Excellent’ Trust Pilot rating, which speaks volumes about the hard work, customer service and dedication of our team.

The business has also developed a strong partnership with national retailer, Halfords, further solidifying the reputation gained by iTrack in the fleet telematics industry.

Will continued: “It’s a privilege to supply the UK’s largest motoring accessory retailer with our range of vehicle and asset tracking products which allows us to bring our innovative products to even more customers.

“It’s also fantastic to work with many local business’ too, such as Lockwood Haulage in Belper where we’ve fitted over 200 tracking devices to their HGV trailer fleet. They’ve seen significant savings compared to their previous provider while benefiting from the high-quality service we offer!

Looking ahead, the business is about to launch a state-of-the-art dash cam, featuring both front & rear cameras and a large touch screen for an intuitive user-friendly experience. This new product will provide individuals and companies with peace of mind, ensuring protection in the unfortunate event of non-fault road accidents.

Will concluded: “Exciting times are ahead, and we’re just getting started!”

The organisations featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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KranLee Logistics wins International Entrepreneur of the Year award

Chesterfield’s KranLee Logistics has taken home another prestigious business award, with co-owner Karen Mosley being named International Entrepreneur of the Year (Sponsored by Solicitors4Landlords).

Karen was presented with the accolade at the 2025 East Midlands Real Entrepreneurs’ Awards, celebrating the region’s dynamic business leaders.

Now in its fourth year, the event recognised outstanding entrepreneurial talent from Leicester, Derby, and Nottingham.

With 27 exceptional finalists, the event showcased the diverse and innovative spirit of East Midlands businesses. The awards ceremony was set against the elegant backdrop of an afternoon tea occasion, providing a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere for all attendees.

Speaking on her award win, Karen commented: “Winning the International Entrepreneur of the Year award is more than a milestone, it’s a motivator. It tells us we’re on the right track at Kranlee Logistics, pushing boundaries and building something that resonates beyond borders. It’s recognition of the risks we’ve taken, the innovations we’ve introduced, and the relationships we’ve nurtured both domestically and internationally.

“The Real Entrepreneurs’ Awards shine a spotlight where it matters, on the real people such as Lee and I building real businesses that power our local and international economies. They remind us that entrepreneurship isn’t just about growth; it’s about impact. And we’re proud to be part of a network of businesses doing just that.”

Karen Mosley Director of KranLee Logistics, winner of the International Entrepreneur of the Year category

Guests at the event also raised £1,000 during the event for The Real Entrepreneurs’ Awards charity partner The Zinthiya Trust. The money will be used to provide school uniforms to 50 local children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Jenny Cross, Founder of The Real Entrepreneurs’ Club and its awards, said: “Entrepreneurial success is not solely defined by profitability but by the capacity to drive transformative change. These awards serve as a platform for recognising individuals and organisations that exemplify innovation, perseverance, and community engagement. It is an honour to organise an event that shines a spotlight on their achievements and fosters meaningful connections among business leaders.”

KranLee Logistics provides highly tailored and bespoke logistics experience for its clients.

Founded by siblings, Karen Mosley and Lee Wells, KranLee aims to create a one-to-one customer service-focused freight forwarding approach that benefits exporters and importers alike.

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

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