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Hat-trick of major industry awards for Mortgage 1st

18th June 2024

Chesterfield based mortgage broker, Mortgage 1st has won some of the most competitive categories in three nationally recognised industry events.

The business was established in 2008, but has since grown into a company with over 50 employees based at its head office just off junction 30 of the M1 motorway.

In the space of just 17 days, Mortgage 1st picked up awards at three financial and mortgage sector awards ceremonies:

• Mortgage Strategy Awards – Best Mortgage Broker
• Financial Reporter Awards – Broker Firm of the Year
• Legal & General Mortgage Club Awards – Best Broker Firm for Overall Quality

Managing Director, Jon Stones: “This remarkable level of success is true testament to the skillset, culture and commitment of our amazing team at Mortgage 1st. To be recognised as the best mortgage broker firm in the UK across three separate awards events signals that we are very close to achieving exactly what we set out to 16 years ago.

“Being trusted to provide first class advice comes with huge responsibility, we aim to provide this as seamlessly as possible whilst keeping the customer at the heart of every improvement we make as a brand.

“We are still in a state of shock to be completely honest but thrilled that the judges and the readers of industry publications have recognised our achievements over the last 12 months. Winning these awards leaves us feeling immensely proud but also fuels our ambitions to enhance our offering even further.”

Centrally located in the UK with superb access to major cities via the M1, Chesterfield is an excellent location to base your business. Find out more about investment opportunities in Chesterfield here.

Mortgage 1st supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

New mural unveiled in Chesterfield

17th June 2024

A powerful new mural has been unveiled in Chesterfield, by the British Heart Foundation (BHF) to remember Tom Henson, who sadly died in 2018 aged just 23, after having a cardiac arrest while playing football with his friends. The striking mural is part of a new campaign by the BHF to raise awareness of sudden cardiac death.

Tom’s mural is one of 12 unveiled across the country as part of the BHF campaign. As the UEFA Euro 2024 kicks off, each painting commemorates a talented young footballer or fan who died too soon.

Nikki and Shaun O’Halloran, Tom’s mother and stepfather, have set up the Tom Henson Charity, raising money for community defibrillators, so far helping provide 34 defibrillators across local communities.

Nikki said: “I think Tom would be happy that his story is helping raise awareness of sudden cardiac death. If just one person gets checked out and gets a heart diagnosis, or someone learns CPR, it’s worth it.”

Located at Whittington Moor, Chesterfield, the mural features the emotive message ‘Til I Died’. At a time when people are looking forward to watching the month-long football festival with their family and friends, for families like Tom’s, it is yet another poignant reminder of loved ones who are no longer with us.

Each week, 12 young people under the age of 35 are lost to sudden cardiac death in the UK. However, new research from the BHF reveals that the nation is largely unaware of the devastating effect heart disease has on young people.

A nationally representative survey has revealed that over a quarter of Brits (27%) don’t believe a heart condition can affect you if you are aged under 35. Those surveyed also severely underestimated the number of under 35s that die each week from sudden cardiac death, with most thinking it was seven people – almost half less than the shocking reality in the UK.

If you are looking for ideas of where to watch the Euros in Chesterfield check out our blog at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/2024/06/its-coming-home-heres-where-you-can-catch-all-the-action-from-euro-2024-in-chesterfield/

Chesterfield has a range of artworks and murals across the town. You can discover more of them on our art trail walking routes at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/2023/05/chesterfield-art-trail-walking-routes/

Images: Adrian Brown / British Heart Foundation

British Heart Foundation Mural in Chesterfield. Photo: Adrian Brown

Posted in About Chesterfield, Featured, Home

Global Brands Ltd Expands Spirits Portfolio with Shanky’s Whip Partnership

14th June 2024

Chesterfield-based Global Brands Ltd has announced a further expansion of its spirits portfolio, thanks to its recent partnership with Shanky’s Whip, the original Irish black liqueur and whiskey blend.  

The partnership will see Global Brands take full UK distribution for Shanky’s Whip across on and off trade, online and cash and carry channels. The strategic alliance comes on the back of Global Brands’ recent spirits focus, having recently announced their off trade partnership with Red Leg Rum and the launch of their own flavoured Tequila, Take. 

Owned by importer and distributor Biggar & Leith, Shanky’s Whip is a unique Irish whiskey liqueur, blended with vanilla and caramel, made to shot, sip, or mix. Shanky’s current major listings include Greene King, Amazon, Costco and Whitbread, amongst other regional groups and venues.  

Global Brands, whose portfolio includes VK, Hooch, and Franklin & Sons, is set to leverage its robust distribution network, and market insights to enhance the market prominence of Shanky’s Whip, propelling its growth by positioning the brand as a challenger against mainstream competitors.  

Julian Atkins, Managing Director at Global Brands, stated, “Becoming the UK distributor for Shanky’s Whip marks another milestone in our ongoing spirits strategy as we continue to diversify the business into new categories through a combination of NPD and working with established industry partners. Elwyn Gladstone and Mark Teasdale have an amazing track record of creating and building brands and we are delighted to be working with them.”

“Shanky’s authentic provenance, unique brand proposition and iconic flavour is fast becoming a consumer favourite, and we’re looking forward to leveraging our capabilities to support the brand.”  

Elwyn Gladstone, Founder of Biggar & Leith, added: “This partnership with Global Brands will help to expand our distribution footprint across the UK. We have enjoyed tremendous growth for Shanky’s Whip overseas and see real opportunity here in the UK.” 

“Global Brands will play a key role in our UK growth, and we look forward to seeing the results of the partnership come to fruition over the coming months, on our journey of achieving key grocery listings.” 

Global Brands’ portfolio boasts a variety of drinks for every occasion, including VK, Franklin & Sons, Hooch, All Shook Up, Shake Baby Shake and the newly released be. Cocktails, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and quality in the drinks industry. 

 Global Brands supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in Business, Home

Tasty business expands to Markham Vale Environment Centre

13th June 2024

Lydia’s Cake Studio is the latest business to relocate to Markham Vale Environment Centre.

The company, run by Lydia Marshall, was established in 2019 and is a wholesale bakery supplying cakes to your favourite cafes and restaurants.

Lydia said ” When the opportunity came at Markham Vale I thought it would offer a great opportunity. It has given us a bigger space to produce more products and hopefully expand further.”

As well as producing wholesale products they have regular stalls at farmers markets and larger events such as Chatsworth Country Fair and Christmas Market.

Lydia trained as a pastry chef in a bakery for 5 years. She then decided to start her own business.

Lydia added “After loving my time there and learning a lot I decided to take a risk and start on my own. Initially working from home, I progressed to my first unit. I was there for 2 years. The opportunity to move to Markham Vale has given us a bigger space to produce more products and hopefully expand to offer more wholesale and attend more markets and events. ”

Two members of staff have also been employed.

Lydia explained, “Chesterfield is a great base for my business, I have created excellent relationships with the local businesses I supply and have a great loyal customer base from the markets.”

If Lydia’s story inspires you and you’re thinking of starting your own business but not sure how, then the Vision Derbyshire business start-up support and grant scheme can help! Find out more about this and business support at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/.

If you are looking for commercial property we can support you to find the perfect premises in Chesterfield. Find out more at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/commercial-property-search/

Posted in Business, Home

Experiences to share this summer in Chesterfield

13th June 2024

Families, foodies, and music lovers are in for a treat this summer in Chesterfield with a wide range of experiences to share taking place across the town.

Summer in Chesterfield has launched, a campaign that celebrates the fantastic events and experiences happening across the area this year.

The campaign aims to support the town’s businesses by promoting everything that is happening in and around Chesterfield, to attract more visitors and encourage residents to support local businesses. There will be content throughout the season on social media, websites and e-newsletters to keep people up to date.

Residents are also being asked to join in with the campaign by sharing their summer experiences on social media with the hashtag #LoveChesterfield.

Monthly competitions will take place over summer with opportunities to win tickets to exciting events and festivals such as the Peak District Highland Games.

Peter Swallow, Destination Chesterfield Chair, said: “This summer provides plenty of opportunity to explore our beautiful Chesterfield. Our passionate people and businesses are going out of their way so that you, your family, and your friends can create lasting memories together while sampling the best of our charming market town. Let’s continue to support our independent shops and venues, whilst taking full advantage of the events and activities lined up across the area. Together, let’s make this summer one to remember, filled with laughter, adventures, and hopefully, plenty of sunshine!”

Events and festivals

There are lots of incredible events and festivals to experience together happening in Chesterfield this year, with lots of familiar favourites making a big return to the town.

The BRM Chesterfield Festival of Cricket is back in Queen’s Park with Derbyshire taking on Yorkshire from Sunday 30 June to Wednesday 3 July and on Sunday 7 July with a T20 matchup between Derbyshire Falcons and Yorkshire Vikings.

To kick off the week of Cricket in Queen’s Park there will be an 80s Bash on Friday 28 June featuring the epic anthems of Bon Jovi and Queen, to the iconic sounds of Blondie, ABBA, Duran Duran, Eurythmics and more.

Chesterfield Pride will be held on Sunday 21 July in Stand Road Park. The family friendly event includes a headline performance by Liberty X as well as other artists including the Cheeky Girls, Nathan Moore, local singer songwriter Lexi Whiteside and lots of other fantastic performers.

Ashgate Hospice is hosting its fantastic Sparkle Night Walk fundraiser on Saturday 22 June. Grab your friends and family, put on your pink accessories, and enjoy a great evening raising money for a local charity.

Jimmy Carr’s sold-out show will bring his dark sense of humour to the Winding Wheel Theatre. There are also some incredible tribute acts throughout the summer to suit every taste including AC/DC, Abba, Queen and Elton John.

Family fun

Chesterfield has been consistently recognised as one of the best places to raise a family and this summer there are lots of experiences for families to share.

Chesterfield has a selection of award-winning parks and green spaces with fantastic play areas, outdoor walks and the Queen’s Park mini train, Puffin’ Billy, will be running through the summer holidays.

After a huge success last year, the Chesterfield Children’s Festival will be returning to Queen’s Park on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 July. Organised by Junction Arts the full lineup is still to be announced but so far acts confirmed include Block Buster Factory, an award-winning immersive street show where you get to be part of a live movie set. There will also be an interactive catwalk, family life drawing workshops and an aerial workshop for babies and their parents.

Both Queen’s Park Sports Centre and the Healthy Living Centre will be open throughout the summer holidays, with some special activities planned. Chesterfield Canal Trust are running trips along the Chesterfield Canal from Tapton Lock or the Hollingwood Hub throughout the summer, including special trips with fish and chips on board. The Trust will also be hosting paddle sport sessions on the Canal.

The Winding Wheel Theatre will be hosting family friendly shows including a return of Horrible Histories with their show Rotten Royals on 16 June and Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out on 27 and 28 July.

History and heritage

There are lots of ways to soak up our town’s history.

You can visit Chesterfield’s most famous landmark with a Crooked Spire Tower Tour on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer. Learn about the history of the church and see the bells, and from early July enjoy stunning views over the surrounding area.

If you’re interested in trains, why not visit Barrow Hill Roundhouse? Britain’s last surviving railway roundhouse with a working turntable was built in 1870 and is now a fantastic museum with a great selection of trains from different eras.

Anyone wanting to take a walk and soak in the sunshine will be spoilt for choice with a fantastic range of countryside walks on the doorstep or take part in the Art Trail and see some fantastic sculptures from a range of acclaimed artists.

Young male hiding at Barrow Hill Roundhouse

Barrow Hill Round House, Chesterfield

Food and drink

Peddler Market is being held on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 July. With a fantastic selection of global street food, craft drinks and excellent entertainment, the event is a joy for the senses. This will also be the last Peddler Market for 2024 due to the regeneration works planned in the town centre.

Casa Hotel will be hosting their Bottomless Brunch with one date in June and four from July to August. Guests can enjoy sociable sharing platters of charcuterie and tapas and have 90 mins of bottomless drinks.

Brampton Brewery will be opening its doors to provide tours for the public including a talk from their head brewer about the history of the brewery and how they create their fine ales today. The tour includes two pints of their award-winning beer.

Over the summer the Chesterfield Great Historic Pub Tours will be covering the town centre and Brampton Mile each month. The tours include the history of local pubs and the chance to get a drink at each stop.

Of course, there are also lots of independent restaurants and bars to try, you can find 50 of the very best the town has to offer by visiting the Chesterfield website.

Markets and shopping

Chesterfield not only has regular markets on Monday, Friday, and Saturdays from 9am to 4pm, but we also have one of the largest flea markets in the country every Thursday.

Speciality markets including the Vegan Market, Artisan Market and Record Fair will be held on Sundays throughout the summer. Offering a range of unique products it’s a great opportunity to support local traders and small businesses.

Little Hummingbird Events will also be bringing their Craft & Makers Market to the main Market on select Saturdays in July and August.

In Chesterfield town centre and just outside on Chatsworth Road and Whittington Moor are well-known chain stores, and a fantastic selection of independent retailers who are happy to offer gift advice where needed.

You can find out more about the Summer in Chesterfield campaign, including listings for all the events and some insider tips on where you can find the best independent shops, bars and eateries by visiting: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

New public art project aims to animate Chesterfield

12th June 2024

A new public art project is launching in Chesterfield and Staveley this summer – creating new artworks and activities for visitors which will take place over the next two years throughout the regeneration programmes happening in both town centres.

Delivered by Beam, a leading cultural development organisation working across the North of England, the programme will include the appointment of an artist in residence to engage visitors to Chesterfield town centre, a new trail of small-scale artworks to explore, an outdoor exhibition area, a Christmas window trail and a 2D wall art design.

The programme will also include work in Staveley town centre tied to the planned regeneration project, Staveley 21. Details for this element are still being finalised.

A spokesperson for Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “Our borough includes a wide range of public art that has been funded through development and this project seeks to build on that history and create new artworks in our town centres to help visitors explore the area.

“We’re excited to be working with Beam to deliver this public art programme, and we hope that it will create opportunities for people to visit the town centre and take part in activities throughout the regeneration works. With artworks planned for both Chesterfield and Staveley this programme will benefit town centres across the borough and create new points of interest for visitors to experience.”

The public art project will coincide with the council’s Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project, a multi-million-pound regeneration of the town centre that will transform the look, feel and flow of key public spaces, and also complement regeneration work taking place in Staveley.

Beam will shortly be seeking to appoint an artist to take residency in Chesterfield town centre, with the aim of them taking over a vacant shop from summer onwards, where they will engage with visitors and host activities, particularly around school holidays and town centre events.

Kate Watson, principal consultant at Beam, said: “It’s a privilege to have been appointed to work with Chesterfield and Staveley communities and artists to animate public spaces through creativity, building on the area’s rich tradition of public art.”

Funding for the public art project was secured through planning agreements as part of the council’s percent for art scheme, which was part of the previous Local Plan (and now continues on a voluntary basis), and the funding must be used for the delivery of public art.

To find out more about the Artist in Residence opportunity please visit: https://www.beam.uk.net/events/socially-engaged-artist-residency-opportunity/

Looking to experience some of the existing public art in Chesterfield follow our art trails.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure

Next major phase of town centre regeneration work set to start in July

12th June 2024

The next phase of the regeneration of Chesterfield town centre is set to start in July – with experienced contractor, Thomas Bow, now appointed to take the project forward.

The multi-million pound Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project includes a range of improvement works to transform the look, feel and flow of the town’s key public spaces. The works are due to start on 1 July and will take eighteen months to complete.

The project will begin in Market Square, where improvements will create a new market layout with new stalls and enhancements to paving, seating and lighting, before moving on to New Square, where works will be carried out to create an attractive flexible space to support both traditional and speciality markets and a wider range of uses. The final phase will involve improvement works to Rykneld Square.

New layout for Chesterfield Market with contemporary stalls, heritage colours, Market Hall in the background, town pump a feature

Market Square Chesterfield – artist’s impression

Separately, GF Tomlinson will carry out improvements to Corporation Street to create a new gateway to the refurbished Stephenson Memorial Hall.

A spokesperson for the council said: “We’re pleased to confirm Thomas Bow as our contractor and look forward to the project gathering pace over the coming weeks – with work due to start next month. The town centre will remain open for business, although inevitably the work will cause some short-term disruption and we thank people in advance for their patience.

“We have a detailed plan to support our market traders and town centre businesses throughout the improvement works, and we’ll also be making sure we keep members of the public up to date by sharing information as the work progresses.

“We’d encourage people to sign up to our regular monthly email newsletter via our website at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/revitalise – and also keep an eye on the council’s social media channels for the latest updates.”

Thomas Bow is an experienced civil engineering contractor having worked on major public realm regeneration projects in cities across the midlands, including Lincoln, Nottingham and Leicester. They will be operating a site office from Low Pavement and from where members of the public will be able to view the plans and find out more about how the project is progressing.

John Allen, Construction Director from Thomas Bow, said: “We are delighted to secure this important scheme with Chesterfield Borough Council. As a local contractor with significant experience in successful public realm delivery across the midlands, our teams are very much looking forward to embarking on this project in the coming months.”

Residents are also asked to note that, due to the timing of the improvement works, Chesterfield’s Medieval Market will not take place this year. The council is working with the local charities which usually fund-raise at the July event to provide alternative opportunities for them to take market stalls on speciality market days.

The next Peddler Market will go ahead as planned on 19 and 20 July – within its self-contained location on New Square, which won’t be affected by the works until later in the year.

A council spokesperson said: “Unfortunately, we have had to take the difficult decision to cancel the Medieval Market this year, as key areas of the main market square will be undergoing improvement works.

“However, there are many more great family-friendly events taking place across the summer period and, in the longer term, the improvement works will create more space and flexibility for a range of town centre events and celebrations.

“We’ll also be launching a new public art project. It will include an artist in residency, art trails and an exhibition in the town centre, with the aim of encouraging people to visit and support local businesses whilst the regeneration project proceeds.”

You can find out more about Chesterfield Borough Council’s Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project and sign up for email newsletter updates by visiting: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/revitalise

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Property and Construction, Summer, Visiting

D2N2 LEP incorporated into the new East Midlands Combined Authority

11th June 2024

Work to boost inclusive growth across the region has taken an important step forward this week following the incorporation of the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) into the new East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).

The move sees around 20 LEP staff joining the EMCCA to support the work to improve the lives of everyone living and working in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire and Derby and Derbyshire, through delivering improvements in transport, housing, skills and adult education and net zero.

Local enterprise partnerships were established across the country in 2010 with responsibilities for local economic development in their region. Now, as part of the devolution deal agreed with government that established EMCCA, the LEP’s board agreed that its functions would be incorporated into the EMCCA to deliver a unified approach to tackling the region’s challenges.

Mark Rogers, interim Chief Executive of EMCCA said: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome LEP staff to the EMCCA. It’s an important step forward in growing organisational capacity and supporting our devolution journey that’s seen powers move from Westminster to the East Midlands where we can make the right decisions for the people we serve.

“The move means the expertise, knowledge and experience that supports business growth, investment opportunities and partnership working is in one place where we can make a real difference to our region.”

Will Morlidge, Chief Executive of D2N2 LEP said: “I’m delighted that the LEP team is joining the Combined County Authority. We’re extremely proud of the work we’ve done over the last 13 years, but joining EMCCA means that across a whole range of issues we can do more, even bigger, even better things that support our region.”

The D2N2 Board, which provides strategic leadership for the LEP, will be in place until the end of this year.

Looking for support for your business? Find out more about the initiatives available to organisations in Chesterfield here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Will Morelidge, D2N2 LEP

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Chesterifleld business support, d2n2 lep, East Midlands Combined Authority

Have your say and help shape the future of Chesterfield

7th June 2024

Residents, businesses, community groups and organisations in Chesterfield are being asked to have their say on how they think almost £20m worth of investment should be spent to help improve the town over the next 10 years.

A new and independent board, called the Chesterfield Town Board, is driving forward this investment and wants to hear people’s views to understand local issues and priorities as well as ideas for the future of Chesterfield.

People can put forward their views as part of an online survey – which will be open until noon on Monday 24 June – and a series of engagement sessions are also being held with local community groups and organisations.

Dominic Staniforth, Chair of the Chesterfield Town Board, said: “Listening to local people and understanding how residents, businesses and community representatives think this money should be best invested is at the heart of our plans.

“This means our investment proposals will be developed by local people for local people: bringing together residents, business, and community leaders to devise and agree a shared vision for the future.

“It’s really important that we hear from as many people as possible, to understand local issues and priorities as well as ideas that people may have for the future of Chesterfield.”

The short survey asks people to answer a series of brief questions, seeking their views on how the funding should be spent on projects which fit into three key themes:

Safety and security – this could include projects which help to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour, for example.
High streets, heritage and regeneration – this could include projects which would enhance the town, making the place more attractive and accessible to residents, businesses and visitors.
Transport and connectivity – this could include projects which support improved access to the town centre, including work to support greener modes of travel, as well as public transport options.

People’s views will be used to help shape the development of a long-term vision statement and three-year investment plan setting out how and where the money will be spent.

Dominic added: “Chesterfield is a great town full of wonderful people and organisations that share a common purpose to make it even better – a place to live, work, invest and study – so please do spare a few minutes to complete our short survey and be part of our shared ambitions for the town.”

Local business leader Dominic Staniforth was appointed as Chair of the Board. He sits alongside representatives from other local businesses, community and voluntary organisations, and the public sector, including representation from Chesterfield Borough Council.

The survey can be accessed at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Chesterfieldonlinesurvey

For more information about Chesterfield Town Board visit www.chesterfield.gov.uk/chesterfield-town-board

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Property and Construction, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in chesterfield borough council, chesterfield business news, Chesterfield improvements, Chesterfield investment, chesterfield news, Chesterfield town, Chesterfield Town Board, chesterfield town centre, Love Chesterfield

New fashion exhibition inspired by Duchess Deborah to launch at Chatsworth

7th June 2024

The Chatsworth House Trust has announced it will be opening a new exhibition showcasing renowned London-based fashion house, ERDEM’s Spring Summer 2024 collection, which is inspired by Duchess Deborah and the Devonshire Collections.

From 22 June – 20 October 2024, Chatsworth will be home to Imaginary Conversations, an exhibition which celebrates the legacy of the late Duchess, using the house as a source of inspiration for the collection.

As part of the research and development process for the collection, Erdem and his design team were given access to the extensive archives at Chatsworth. Archival fabrics from the collection, including historic curtains that once hung within the house, were reimagined into the collection along with the shapes, silhouettes and styles of the pieces Duchess Deborah wore.

Imaginary Conversations provides insight into Erdem’s creative process, from the initial thrill of discovery when delving into the Chatsworth archives, to the artistry and techniques of designing new clothes.

Erdem Moralioglu MBE, Creative Director and Founder at ERDEM, said: “I have always wanted to create a collection on Deborah, Duchess of Devonshire and the history of Chatsworth. I have long been fascinated by her story and found the archives at Chatsworth to be endlessly inspiring.”

Set within the guest bedrooms, the exhibition brings together historic prints and drawings, textiles, jewellery and photographs, with the eclectic taste of Deborah, the late Dowager Duchess, woven throughout.

Key looks from the Erdem SS24 collection will sit alongside the source material. Collectively, these stories of the past and present pay tribute to British craft and flair, reinforcing Duchess Deborah’s inimitable spirit and vision.

Imaginary Conversations celebrates how Chatsworth, and the Devonshire Collections, can inspire the artists, makers and designers of today.

Jane Marriott, Director at Chatsworth House Trust, commented: “For five centuries, Chatsworth has been a home of creativity and a source of inspiration for countless designers, makers, and artists, and we are delighted to build on this legacy with Imaginary Conversations. The exhibition provides insight into Erdem’s creative process, from the initial thrill of discovery when delving into the Devonshire Archives, to the artistry and techniques of his new designs.

“As a charity, we care for the incredible Devonshire Collections in order to share them with everyone. It is so exciting to see the historic collections reimagined through a contemporary lens in this way, and we hope that by sharing the process behind this collaboration we can inspire the next generation of creative leaders.”

The exhibition begins in the Queen of Scots’ Lobby, with cases filled with material that once belonged to Duchess Deborah, including letters, objects and photographs of particular inspiration to Erdem.

At various points throughout the exhibition, largescale projections will play the Spring Summer 24 catwalk show, immersing visitors in the live experience.

A recording of the Duchess’s voice, used in the Spring Summer 24 fashion show soundtrack for the launch at the British Museum, will play in the background, and Lucian Freud’s portrait of the Duchess, Woman in a White Shirt, will bring her voice to life. Whilst select pieces from Duchess Deborah’s legendary jewellery collection of insects will also be displayed amongst pieces from Erdem’s collection.

The exhibition concludes in the Wellington Bedroom, where Duchess Deborah’s own inspirations and passions are to be displayed alongside the looks from Erdem’s collection that honour them.

Lady Burlington added: “Chatsworth’s fashion archive is perhaps a lesser-known part of the collection, but seeing Duchess Deborah’s clothing inspire this new body of work by Erdem, and being able to bring these pieces back to Chatsworth with the original source material has been an incredibly rewarding process. Debo loved clothes and creativity and I hope she would be quietly pleased to see all these things she enjoyed inspire Erdem and fuel his work.”

Imaginary Conversations is sponsored by Farfetch, and access to the exhibition is included with all house and garden tickets between 22 June and 20 October 2024. There will also be a series of curator tours taking place throughout the summer.

To book tickets and find out more, visit: www.chatsworth.org/events/erdem-imaginary-conversations/

Posted in Home, Leisure, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Chatsworth House, chesterfield news, ERDEM, ERDEM Spring, ERDEM Summer, ERDEM summer 2024, Places to visit in Chesterfield, things to do in Chesterfield

Solar panel interest soars in Chesterfield as residents and businesses choose sustainability

6th June 2024

Chesterfield has been named as one of the top 10 towns in the UK for interest in solar panels.

The number of residents showing interest in the products through internet searches is well above national levels, with an average of 3,860 monthly searches.

The research was compiled by The Federation of Master Builders (FMB), which examined the numbers to find out which places in the UK have seen the highest growth in interest in solar panels.

Across the UK, the average number of residents seeking to learn about solar panels sits at 2.8%, but in Chesterfield the monthly figure sits at 4.3% – the ninth best figure in the country.

Energy Saving Expert Hannah Holway at FMB, stresses how valuable solar panels can be to the average homeowner: “While the UK might not have many long, sunny days, that’s no reason not to install solar panels on your home.

“According to our own research, for the typical UK home, the cost of a solar panel system without will be around £7,000 and can amount to an average annual saving of almost £1,100. That means that in seven years, consumers will have paid their investment back in the savings made on energy.

“Not only that, the full 30-year lifespan of those panels will net approximately £33,000 in savings, or £26,000 after the initial investment is subtracted.

“It’s no surprise that many places in the UK are showing increased interest in solar panels!”

It isn’t just homeowners showing interest in Solar Panels. Many businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have recently made the switch to improve their sustainability credentials.

Claire Wilks, Business Operations Manager at FWD Motion said: “Solar panels power our facilities, with plans for further expansion. This approach underscores our dedication to reducing our environmental impact and promoting sustainability.”

Ally Snee, Key Account Manager for SDE Group said: “We recently installed solar panels on our offices which has allowed us to remove gas from the building.”

Gareth Paradise, Health & Safety and Facilities Manager at Global Brands Ltd said: “We’ve recently invested in solar panels to take the bulk of our power demands. We constantly monitor power use and look to install devices and practices to reduce consumption.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Chesterfield sustainability, Love Chesterfield, Solar Panels Chesterfield