Following the successful Custom Solar Chesterfield Festival of Cricket, in association with Chesterfield Borough Council in early July, Derbyshire will return to Queen’s Park this September for the Specsavers County Championship fixture versus Kent.

The four-day fixture, which starts on Tuesday 19 September, has been moved to Chesterfield to minimise the risk of the pitch at Derby not being fit for play in the event of a period of particularly poor weather at the same time of the Boyzone concert on Saturday 16 September.

The beautiful Queen’s Park held five days of cricket two weeks ago as part of the annual festival, with over 9,000 supporters enjoying top class cricket in the town.

The match against Kent will provide Members and supporters in the north of the county another opportunity to watch Derbyshire in action.

Simon Storey, Chief Executive of Derbyshire County Cricket Club, said:-

“We all understand how important concerts and events are to ensuring financial stability of the Club. Without these events, our cricket budget would be significant smaller.

“The Elton John concert proved how successful it could be and we were also blessed with good weather on the evening. However, this was our first concert and we learned a lot about the recovery period required not just for the square, but also the outfield.

“Whilst confident that under normal weather conditions the pitch at Derby would be playable, we have decided, following the success of this year’s festival, to move the fixture to our northern outpost at Chesterfield.

“The hosting of ICC Women’s World Cup warm-up matches and the week-long festival have demonstrated the progress made by Chesterfield Borough Council with the drainage systems at Queen’s Park.

“Chesterfield is a beautiful venue and the pitches prepared for this year’s festival have produced some very exciting cricket for both the shortest and longest formats, and we look forward to returning for a second time this year.

“The venue switch has taken some time to finalise as we have to take into account a lot of variables. We are grateful to our partners at ECB, Chesterfield Cricket Club and Chesterfield Borough Council for their support.”

Councillor Steve Brunt, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, added:-

“It is great news that Chesterfield is to play host to first class cricket for a second time this year.

“The festival of cricket was a great success with good crowds for the Durham four-day match and a sell-out for the NatWest T20 Blast game against Yorkshire Vikings.

“Having this additional game against Kent is another opportunity to showcase Chesterfield to visitors from outside the town, which will benefit businesses in the town and the local economy.”

Local charities are once again set to benefit when hundreds of classic cars and bikes turn up at the picturesque Ashover Show Ground this Sunday for an all-day rally, which is expected to raise thousands of pounds for local charities.

The Ashover Classic Car & Bike Show will be attended by enthusiasts from all over the region and is expected to include classic cars, bikes and scooters from all eras.

Organised jointly for the seventh year running by the Rotary Clubs of Chesterfield, Chesterfield Scarsdale, Clay Cross and Matlock this annual charity event has now raised a total of over £70,000 for local charities.

There will be attractions for all the family, with a variety of refreshment stands and licensed bars. There is also musical entertainment and displays in the main event arena, kids rides, and a large side show with Autojumble and an Arts and Craft Fair.

This year, specialists from event partner H&H Classics, Europe’s largest specialist classic vehicle auction house will be in attendance at the show. The H&H team, in association with the UK’s specialist insurance and valuation expert for classic cars, Hagerty International, will be able to discuss just about everything to do with the cars from condition, history and a general idea of what it might be worth. If required they can also put owners in touch with Hagerty International for a formal valuation.

Stuart Bradley from the organising committee, said:-

“This annual event has proved very popular with classic car and bike enthusiasts because of its ideal location in the Derbyshire countryside in the lovely village of Ashover

The main sponsor of this charity event is Stoneacre, one of the most successful and fastest growing motor groups in the UK. Other sponsors include:- JCT600 (Mecedes Benz Chesterfield), The Van Yard, PCS Motor Factors, BRM Solicitors, Sally Botham Estates, Saxton Mee, Bothams Mitchell Slaney and Stuart Bradley Jewellers.

Death-defying and jaw-dropping feats of skill and courage performed on horses at full gallop by legendary Cossack Warriors will be seen for the first time at this year’s Chatsworth Country Fair.

The three-day celebration of the countryside set in the beautiful Chatsworth parkland is offering an array of family entertainment, from the whirlwind that is Dzhigitovka! – The Way of the Cossack Warrior, to what is set to be one of the very last displays by the army’s world famous motorcycle display team The White Helmets.

Today, the equestrian art of dzhigitovka, which sees the rider leaping from his horse at full gallop or sliding under its belly, is practised as a sport by the distant descendants of the Cossack Warriors. But, three centuries, ago it was a military technique that allowed the riders to dodge bullets and arrows and attack the enemy where least expected.  The Cossacks will be a highlight of the Grand Ring programme, which runs from 10.45am to approximately 6.30pm each day.

Founded in 1927, The British Army’s White Helmets, made up of volunteers from the Royal Signals, owe their heritage to the daring dispatch riders of the First World War.

Now, after 90 years, the display team is being disbanded to make way for a more modern presentation of the Royal Signals in a digital age. With Chatsworth set to be one of the very last chances to see these highly skilled riders perform their crowd-pleasing routine of tricks, it should be an occasion to remember.

Sarah Green, Event Organiser, said:-

“We’re delighted to have secured one of the best line-ups I can remember and I can’t wait to see the displays from the new acts as well as old friends. As our regular visitors will know, away from the thrills and spills of the Grand Ring, there is a wealth of things to see, do and try – and eat! We look forward to welcoming everyone for what promises to be a memorable three days.”

The iconic Second World War planes of the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flypast will return to the skies of Derbyshire while Jump4Heroes, the British Legion’s Extreme Human Flight Team, will be dropping into the arena trailing smoke and flying flags.

Visitors will also get to see the majestic sight of one of the country’s largest hot air balloon lifts setting off each day.

Animals are naturally take a starring role this year, whether it’s the adorable ponies taking part in the high-speed Mounted Games, the terrier race and hounds parade, CJ with her birds of prey or the popular Dog and Duck Show.

There is plenty on offer for children too, whether it’s joining the Band of The Royal Logistics Corps for the traditional Children’s March Past; taking part in ‘Scufts’, the family fun dog show or all manner of active fun from zorbing and climbing to bouncing and balancing. Some fantastic activities on offer are listed below:

• Pony Rides

• Wow Water – Zorb balls

• Highline Adventure – Climbing Wall and Spider Mountain

There’s numerous activities for visitors of all ages to try, from laser and clay pigeon shooting and archery to fly fishing tuition. See listed below some of our top picks:

• Archery

• Family Fun Dog Show

• Gundog Scurry

Always a crowd favourite is the chance to experience first-hand some of the nation’s favourite chefs whipping up delicious culinary delights. This year, there is a mouthwatering line-up of talent led by Paul Hollywood on Friday, Mary Berry CBE on Saturday and John Torode and Lisa Faulkner on Sunday along with some fantastic local chefs showcasing their talents all set in the foodie haven of the Fine Food Village.

Derbyshire Falcons’ opening home NatWest T20 Blast fixture versus Yorkshire Vikings on Saturday 8 July at Chesterfield is now a complete sell out.

The Club has received huge demand for the popular local derby at Queen’s Park, part of the Custom Solar Chesterfield Festival of Cricket, with over 4,000 supporters purchasing their matchday tickets in advance.

It’s the second time in three years the fixture at Chesterfield has sold out in advance.

Only matchday ticket holders, Members who have claimed in advance and Six Pack Ticket holders, will be able to gain entry into the ground. Tickets will not be available to buy on the day.

Simon Storey, Chief Executive of Derbyshire County Cricket Club, said:-

“The local derby is always the highlight of our week in Chesterfield and we’re delighted with the response we have received. The demand for tickets continues to grow year on year.

“Queen’s Park is a beautiful venue and whilst some fans will be disappointed they have not be able to get a ticket, the safety and comfort of spectators is our top priority.

“To ensure all visitors enjoy a great day with us, additional chairs have been ordered, a higher number of safety stewards will be on duty and additional bars and toilets are already in place.

“It promises to be a great occasion to close this year’s Custom Solar Chesterfield Festival of Cricket and I know the team will enjoy playing in front of a packed house.”

Councillor Steve Brunt, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:-

“It is great news that the Yorkshire game is a sell-out. It shows the interest in Chesterfield and surrounding areas for having top class cricket in the town.

“We look forward to welcoming supporters of both sides to the game, with the benefits that will bring to local businesses and the local economy.”

Supporters with matchday tickets are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance and give plenty of time to arrive at the ground. Gates will open earlier than advertised at 12noon. Please do not arrive at the ground if you do not have a matchday ticket.

Chesterfield Pride is returning to Queens Park for a third year on the 23rd July. The event has grown in the last two years and has now become a firm favourite on the Pride calendar.

This year the event is set to be even more popular with a bigger site meaning more stalls, more fairground rides, a bigger stage and a number of celebrity acts performing.

The event will be hosted by Candy Du Kane, Ella Va-Night and Celebrity Big brother star Austin Armacost and has an impressive line up of  performers including pop legends The Cheeky Girls, 80’s HiNRG icon Hazell Dean, X Factor’s Blonde Electra and many more.

Dan Walker, Event organiser, says:-

“We are really proud how far the event has come and how the local area has embraced the event”

At the event there will be food outlets, a licensed bar, children’s area and market stalls. There is also an official after party (free admission) with 90’s vocalist Angie Brown performing.

For more information about the event click here.

After a two successful ICC Women’s World Cup warm–up matches, the town is preparing to welcome the Custom Solar Chesterfield Festival of Cricket, in association with Chesterfield Borough Council.

The picturesque ground held two international fixtures, England versus Sri Lanka and India versus Sri Lanka, in the lead up to the global cricket tournament.

The games took place ahead of the week-long festival, which will feature a four-day Specsavers County Championship match versus Durham and a NatWest T20 Blast fixture against Yorkshire Vikings.

Chesterfield Borough Council has confirmed that it has completed a comprehensive programme of work over the winter to improve drainage at Queen’s Park.

Chesterfield Borough Council, which owns the picturesque ground, carried out a full review of drainage using CCTV cameras and found some roots from nearby mature trees had caused a blockage and partial collapse of the drainage system.

A comprehensive programme of work has been carried out to minimise future drainage problems. This includes;

• Installing new drainage at the boundary near South Lodge, down the field in the direction of the bandstand and near the cricket pavilion
• Replacing old pipework in gullies with new plastic pipes
• Using water jets to ensure all pipework is clear of blockages
• Re-turfing areas of the ground impacted by the work
• Putting in place a revised maintenance regime and phased replacement of drainage to prevent problems returning in the future

Councillor Steve Brunt, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:-

“By using CCTV cameras we were able to identify there had been a partial collapse of the drainage so we decided to carry out a comprehensive improvement programme.

“While no cricket ground in the country can ever claim it won’t suffer from any drainage issues after high volumes of rain, we believe that the work carried out will prevent a repeat of the issues that were experienced last year where the drainage problems continued for some time after the rain had stopped.

“We look forward to welcoming both Durham and Yorkshire to the ground as they take on Derbyshire during the course of the popular cricket festival. We are proud to support the festival which promises to be a great week’s cricket and will bring lots of visitors to the town benefitting local businesses.”

Simon Storey, Chief Executive at Derbyshire County Cricket Club, added:-

“We have worked closely with Chesterfield Borough Council following last year’s event and a full programme of drainage improvements have taken place which will significantly reduce the risk of any future drainage issues.

“Chesterfield is a special venue for cricket and we’re delighted with the response we have received for this year’s festival.  The popular NatWest T20 Blast fixture versus Yorkshire Vikings is set to be another sell out, while the traditional first-class fixture, this year versus Durham, is always well attended.

“Queen’s Park is one of the most picturesque venues in the game and we’re committed to returning for years to come.”

The festival, which runs from Monday 3 July to Saturday 8 July, features a four-day Specsavers County Championship match between Derbyshire and Durham.

It concludes with the traditional local NatWest T20 Blast derby versus Yorkshire Vikings on Saturday 8 July, which is on course to be a sell-out with only 500 tickets still available.

Tickets for the matches are available from Chesterfield’s Visitor Information Centre in Rykneld Square or online at derbyshireccc.com.

Life-size model cows that wowed both the judges and the crowds at the first-ever RHS Chatsworth Flower Show have found the perfect home and will stay together as a herd in the Peak District and Derbyshire.

Three beautiful beasts – all eye-catching features in official tourist board Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s Silver-Gilt Medal winning show garden – have been put out to pasture at The Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath.

The quirky cows – sprayed in metallic colours and ‘branded’ with a blue and white hand-painted circular motif – are destined to be a whimsical talking point for visitors at Derbyshire’s oldest tourist attraction high above the Derwent Valley.

Rupert Pugh, Director at The Heights of Abraham, said:-

“We are delighted that we are able to welcome all three of the quirky cows and keep them in the Peak District. We hope that visitors to The Heights will enjoy the opportunity to see these contemporary, captivating sculptures for many years to come.

“With the main access to The Heights via cable car, it’s certainly been a challenge to transport the cows safely to the top – a very unusual load and not something you would expect to see travelling across the A6!”

Jo Dilley, Managing Director, Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, added:-

“It’s great news that the cows, which were a real talking point throughout the RHS Chatsworth show, will stay together on home soil so that even more people who come to the area in future can enjoy them.

“We’re really grateful to The Heights of Abraham for giving them long-term grazing rights in one of the most scenic locations in the area.”

RHS Chelsea Flower Show award winning designer Lee Bestall, who designed the tourist board’s Experience Peak District & Derbyshire show garden at Chatsworth (June 7 to 11), was inspired to include the cows after reading a comment by Sir George Sitwell that white cows could be made more interesting if painted with a blue pattern.

One of the cows is sprayed copper, another chrome/silver and the third gold, based on an original concept by Hathersage-based artists Becky Pytches and Rob Hopper. University intern Marion Leclerc (21) from Nantes, France, currently working with Lee and his team at Bestall & Co, then hand-painted a Willow pattern inspired ‘brand’ on the rump of each animal.

Meanwhile the show garden – featuring wild flower strewn meadows leading via a mown path and stone ha-ha to clipped topiary and herbaceous planting favoured by the area’s great country houses – is also flourishing.

It has been recreated at Renishaw Hall & Gardens, north Derbyshire by Lee and his team – all of whom are based there – to attract and inspire even more garden and plant lovers in the future.

Destination Chesterfield, organiser of the town’s Food and Drink Awards, wants to know which eateries get the taste buds tingling of families in the area. And who better to judge the winner of the prestigious award than foodie families?

Two young families with children aged under 12, are wanted to judge the shortlisted family-friendly establishments. They will help decide who takes the Family-Friendly title in the 2017 Awards which are held in association with the Chesterfield College Group

Each family will win an all-expenses-paid meal for four. The lucky winners will also each receive two tickets to attend the glittering awards ceremony on Wednesday 25 October at Chesterfield College’s Heart Space Building.

Now in its fifth year, the Family-Friendly Award aims to find the town’s ultimate eatery that offers great food, excellent facilities for young children, special menus and goes the extra mile to make sure families enjoy their dining experience. As well as enjoying a meal, the winning families will be required to mark the establishments on food, ease of access, cleanliness and the quality and variety of children’s food. Last year the popular award, which is sponsored by Jumble Design, was won by Chester’s in 2016.

Destination Chesterfield Manager Dominic Stevens commented: “Who better to decide the winner of the Family Friendly Award 2017 than families themselves? This competition is a great chance for families in the area to voice their opinion and get to enjoy a meal out too.”

Entries to the competition close on midnight on Friday 30 June and can be made online at www.chesterfield.co.uk/foodanddrinkawards/family-judge-competition/

or by post to

Food and Drink Awards Competition,
Destination Chesterfield
Commerce House
Millennium Way
Dunston Road
Chesterfield
S41 8ND

The awards ceremony, which will be held in autumn, promises to be a glittering affair hosted by celebrity cake maker to the stars Mich Turner MBE.   In addition to the Family Friendly award, Mich will also announce the winners of a further 12 awards at the ceremony.

To keep up-to-date on developments with the 2017 Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/foodanddrinkawards .

Bookings are now open for stalls in Chesterfield market place during the Chesterfield medieval fun day event.

The popular annual event, staged by Chesterfield Borough Council, takes place on Tuesday 25 July and always attracts crowds to the town centre.

Each year, registered charities take stalls at the event to raise money for good causes. Stalls at the event cost £15 for charities and £25 for general traders.

All stall holders will be encouraged to dress in medieval costume with £200 in shared prize money on offer to the three best traders in costume.

Councillor Steve Brunt, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:-

“The medieval fun day is always a popular event in the calendar. I’d encourage local good causes to take a stall at the event to raise money and join in the atmosphere on the day.”

Also at the event will be a medieval encampment in the grounds of the ‘Crooked Spire’ Church, medieval entertainment and ‘A day in the Middle Ages’ event at Chesterfield Museum.

For more information and to book a stall click here.