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Chesterfield Food Producer shortlist announced

24th August 2015

Latest finalists announced ahead of glittering 2015 Chesterfield Food and Drink awards ceremony

Chesterfield’s tastiest food and drink producer is closer to being unveiled. Ten nominees for the title of Food and Drink Producer of the Year were narrowed down to a shortlist of three recently at a tasting event held at Hollingwood Hub, the home of the Canal Trust Partnership in Chesterfield.

Granny Mary’s (Original Recipes), Liza Bakes and Teresa Lambarelli’s will now battle it out for the prestigious title at the glittering Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards ceremony being held at Chesterfield College’s Heart Space building on Wednesday 28 October.

Sponsored by NatWest, the award recognises local food producers, growers and manufacturers within 10 miles of Chesterfield. The shortlisted businesses were selected from hundreds of nominations received by Destination Chesterfield, organiser of the awards in association with Chesterfield College, also headline sponsor of the awards for the third year running.

Each of the shortlisted businesses had to present three variations of their products to a panel of local judges, including Chesterfield Champions. They were awarded marks out of 10 for both presentation and taste. The shortlisted businesses have also had to submit a business plan which will be assessed by Destination Chesterfield and will contribute to their final score.

Chatsworth Road-based Liza Bakes Ltd, which distributes its produce all over the country but prides itself in using local goods, won the coveted title last year. Louise Milroy, owner of Liza Bakes, said: “I am delighted to be nominated for the award. It would be amazing to win and be a really big achievement for the team who work tremendously hard. It is a privilege to be here amongst such great producers- winning would be the icing on the cake.”

Teresa Lambarelli, a finalist for the third year running said: “I am absolutely honoured to have been named as a finalist for Chesterfield Food Producer of the year again! It has always been my aspiration and drive to give Chesterfield and now the UK a true flavour of Italy! It comes at such a very exciting time for my business as I am looking to outsource the development of my pasta sauce to meet demand.”

Craig Maxfield Sales Director of Granny Mary’s – a finalist for the first time, said: “To be nominated means a lot for the company. We are really pleased to be a part of the process. There are some fantastic producers shortlisted and the competition is fierce! It would mean a lot for us to win, but being nominated alongside such outstanding producers is an achievement in itself.”

Dominic Stevens, Manager of Destination Chesterfield said: “It was a very strong field and the judges had a very difficult decision to narrow it down from ten to three. Each finalist was passionate about their products and took great pride in them. They were also equally passionate about their role as food and drink producers in Chesterfield and how they are actively helping the town receive the recognition it deserves for its thriving food sector.”

The winner of the Food Producer of the Year category is just one of 14 which will be announced by celebrity chef Theo Randall at the glittering awards ceremony. He said: “Good food is one of life’s simple pleasures. The support shown for the awards in both the nomination phase and the awards shows that good food is passion of many people in Chesterfield.”

The shortlist for the Chesterfield Food Producer of the Year is the latest category to be announced in the 2015 Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards ahead of the awards ceremony. Already 24 eateries, pubs, bars and venues have been shortlisted across 10 categories in the popular awards. This year also sees the introduction of a brand new category – Conference Venue of the Year – and also 11 new contenders for the awards, including Tickled Trout, Batemans Mill, Chesters, Little Castle, H&F Tea Rooms, Libby’s, Four One Three, Coffee St, Qoozies, Three Cottages and the Proact Stadium.

A full list of the finalists can be seen at www.chesterfield.co.uk/foodanddrinkawards

Other supporters of the awards include the Derbyshire Times, Peak FM, Franke Sissons, Holdsworth Foods, Banner Jones, the Crooked Spire Church, Black Eyed Susan, Reflections, Mitchells Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers, Chesterfield Borough Council, East Midlands Chamber, Hooper’s, Jumble Design, BHP Chartered Accountants, Kier and MSE Hiller.

Posted in Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Summer, Visiting

New category added to Derbyshire Sport Awards

19th August 2015

The search is on to find an outstanding Derbyshire organisation or individual who has used sport or physical activity to make a real difference to people’s lives.

New for 2015, the Active4Life Award recognises the role played improving the health, quality of life or wellbeing of the county’s people, or influencing their achievements.

Applications are welcome from schools, workplaces, community organisations or individuals with a compelling story to tell.

It could be a teacher who goes above and beyond the call of duty in supporting extra-curricular physical activity, or it could be a community club which has gone that extra mile to provide a wide range of activities for disabled people.

Deadlines for nominations are fast approaching, so don’t miss out, with a cut-off date of August 25 for Chesterfield Borough.

You can access an online nomination form, and find out more, by going to www.derbyshiresport.co.uk/nominate

Image shows Chesterfield table tennis player, Liam Pitchford.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Uncovering treasure at Chesterfield Canal

18th August 2015

A mini archaeological dig was carried out at Chesterfield Canal in Staveley at the weekend after volunteers unearthed the remains of the walls and floor of the original Eckington Road Bridge, built over the canal in about 1776.

Chesterfield Canal Trust says it is quite incredible the bridge has remained intact, because three other bridges and a railway line have all since been built within a few yards.

The site was roughly cleared by a mini digger, before a team of helpers set to work. There was lots of heavy clay that had to be shovelled and barrowed out, however the majority of the task was very slow and painstaking – with 24 volunteers on their hands and knees removing the last of the muck from the stonework using trowels and brushes.

As more and more was revealed, the story of how the construction was done began to emerge. It became obvious that the bridge had been constructed first and the towpath put in afterwards.

There were also lots of objects found in the mud, such as old bottles, miners’ lamp and candle holders, a gentleman’s sword stick and a clay pipe.

Of particular interest were three coins, including a George III half penny, dated 1772 or 1773. Dr Geraint Coles, archaeologist and former Chesterfield Canal Development Manager said “This coin is probably a forgery as the obverse and reverse are inverted. This would not be unusual as the county was flooded with forged copper coins during the 1770’s. What a great find and bang on date!”

Now remaining are the tasks of accurately measuring and photographing the site and washing and cataloguing the finds.

Eventually the entire site will be removed because the new, restored canal has to be lower in order to get under a nearby railway, however there is now a desire to do more such digs. A Cuckoo boat, unique to the Chesterfield Canal, is believed to be buried not far away. It is hoped that this will be next on the list.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Spireites land Spanish midfielder

17th August 2015

The Spireites are pleased to sign experienced Spanish midfielder Angel Martinez.

Known simply as ‘Angel’, the 29-year-old flew in to watch this weekend’s game at Sheffield United and has now agreed a two-year contact. He was previously with Millwall and Blackpool after starting out at Espanyol in his native country.

Chesterfield manager Dean Saunders is delighted to have landed Angel. He said: “We’ve been waiting and waiting to sign him. He’s got good pedigree having played at Espanyol and been capped by Spain at under-21 level.

“He’s good on the ball and he knows the central midfield position. With his experience of English football, I’m sure he’ll make us better.”

Angel’s signing comes soon after the capture of Lee Novak who was signed on a season-long loan from Birmingham City and made his debut in Saturday’s game at Sheffield United.

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

Time is running out to enter Chesterfield Marathon

17th August 2015

Runners wanting to take part in this year’s Chesterfield Marathon are being urged to sign up soon – as the deadline for entry is approaching quickly.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Friday 4 of September, meaning there are only around three weeks left for runners to secure their place.

Approximately 1,500 participants from across the UK are expected to take to the streets of Chesterfield on 20 September, running in the full marathon, half marathon and the team relay event, where four competitors take a share of the course.

The event, which has been granted an official road race licence from UK Athletics (RunBritain), will raise funds for children’s charity Kids ‘n’ Cancer, along with several other charities, including MacMillan Cancer Support, Ashgate Hospicecare, The Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity and the British Heart Foundation, as well as community groups like Chesterfield District Scouts and the Friends of Holmebrook Valley and Eastwood Park.

This year, the full and half marathon – as well as the fun run – will start and finish at Queen’s Park in Chesterfield, where an all-day party will also take place.

Andrea Hooley from the Chesterfield Marathon, said: “We would encourage people to get their entry in as soon as possible to ensure they don’t miss the deadline.

“We are excited to welcome people of all ages and abilities to Queen’s Park for what is set to be a fun and memorable day for everyone, helping to put Chesterfield on the map and boost the local economy.”

As last year, any individuals raising £250 (or teams raising £500) for Kids ‘n’ Cancer can enter the race for free.

Runners will have the option to either pay for their ‘chipped’ race bib to be posted to them – or to pick it up for free and register at the Marathon’s Head Office on the day before race day, Saturday 19 September.

Entry for the Fun Run will remain open until race day.

The male and female winners of the full marathon will receive a cash prize of £250 and free entry for next year, and the half marathon winners will get £200 and free entry next year.

To sign-up as a runner or volunteer for the Chesterfield and Derbyshire Marathon visit www.chesterfieldmarathon.org.uk.

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

Spireites defender signs contract extension

13th August 2015

Dan Jones is the latest Chesterfield player to sign a contract extension.

The 28-year-old defender has put pen to paper on a deal which ties him to the club until the summer of 2017.

Jones is delighted to have resolved his future. He said: “It was an easy decision as I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time since I’ve been at the club.

“I had a good pre-season this year and I’ve really been able to buy into what the new manager has brought to the club. I love his enthusiasm, the way he goes about things and I think there’s a lot to learn from him.

“Our approach hasn’t really changed too much under Dean (Saunders) and I think we’re playing football the way it should be played. That suits me and my style and now I’m looking to keep playing and help the team to do as well as possible this season.”

Spireites quartet Tommy Lee, Ian Evatt, Sam Hird and Charlie Raglan have also signed extended contracts over the summer.

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

Spitfires to fly over Chesterfield to commemorate 75th Anniversary of Unternehmen Adlerangriff

13th August 2015

On Thursday 13^th August Spitfires from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will be joined by private Spitfire owners to commemorate the 75^th Anniversary of Unternehmen Adlerangriff, the German operation to destroy the Royal Air Force in World War II. They are due to fly over Chesterfield at 16.31

Up to 13 Spitfires will launch from Humberside Airport and split into three sections of aircraft to fly over as many villages, towns and cities as fuel will allow, enabling the public to see and hear these wonderful historic aircraft and remember the sacrifices made by the young men of Fighter Command 75 years ago.

The destruction of the Royal Air Force would have cleared the way for the invasion of Britain. The German attacks on 13^th August 1940 inflicted significant damage and casualties on the ground but they did not make a significant impression of Fighter Command’s ability to defend British air space.

The engagements resulting from Adlertag became known as the Battle of Britain.

Timings for this significant event are:

Section 1:

Humber Bridge 1603

York 1612

Linton on Ouse 1615

Thirsk 1618

Leeming 1621

Teeside 1625

Whitby 1635

Scarborough 1640

Bridlington 1644

Hull 1651

Section 2:

Grimsby 1612

Mablethorpe 1618

Skegness 1621

Boston 1627

Grantham 1634

Newark 1638

Gainsborough 1645

Scunthorpe 1649

Section 3:

Lincoln 1611

Nottingham 1621

Derby 1625

Chesterfield 1631

Doncaster 1638

Scunthorpe 1644

All locations and times are subject to weather and operational changes.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Famous chefs make for a tasty line up at Chatsworth Country Fair

12th August 2015

This year’s Chatsworth Country Fair offers the chance to watch two of the most famous chefs in Britain demonstrating their favourite dishes.

Hugely popular TV presenter and chef John Torode will be appearing for the first time at the fair. John will be sharing dishes from his new book, ‘My Kind of Food’, which is due out in mid-September. He will be carrying out three demonstrations on Sunday 6 September at 11.00am; 1.30pm and 4.30pm.

Baking queen Mary Berry CBE returns for the third year after proving a huge hit with the Derbyshire crowd. Visitors will be able to see the doyenne of cooking demonstrating three of her favourite recipes from her book, ‘Mary Berry’s Absolute Favourites’ at 11.00am and 3.30pm on Saturday September 5. She will show the audience how to create her delicious Summer Ring Pavlova; Garlic Mushrooms Penne Gratin and Gavaldalax followed by book signing afterwards.

With children under 14 admitted free, the Chatsworth Country Fair is great value for a family day out with something for everyone – from the energetic Ukrainian Cossack Stunt Team to the popular Red Arrows. This year the fair takes place from 4th to 6th September. For more details visit the Chatsworth website or click here.

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

Chatsworth Road Festival returns this October

10th August 2015

The annual Chatsworth Road Festival is quickly approaching! Look out for promotions, events and activities up and down Chatsworth Road 1-4 October 2015.

This year Chesterfield’s Chatsworth Road Festival has been shortened to four days to provide a tighter focus and a more concentrated period of activity.

However fewer days has actually meant MORE events with over 120 varied activities, promotions and competitions scheduled.

This festival differs from others in that it doesn’t feature a fun fair, 5-a-side football or marching bands – instead it aims to more widely promote businesses and organisations based on or near to the ever-more vibrant Chatsworth Road in the West of Chesterfield.

The area is a real gem with great pubs, restaurants and an eclectic mix of shops that sell everything from wellingtons to wedding dresses and fantastic pottery to fairtrade coffee.

The Festival aims to provides something for all tastes and ages and full details will be listed in the free guide available at the beginning of September, in the Festival edition of S40 and on the Festival website. Updates and late registrations will also be featured via Facebook and twitter.

Here’s just a small insight into what you can look forward to

The Mayor will officially open the Festival at ‘both ends’ of Chatsworth Road on Thursday 1^st October. At 9.30am he will mark the opening by putting up some bunting at St Thomas Church before moving on to the Carers Centre on West Bars for the start of their “Best Breakfast” event at 10.00.
Derbyshire’s Poet Laureate, Helen Mort, pops in early evening on Friday to the Real Ale Corner to share her verse
The Brampton Food Market 10.00 on Saturday 3rd celebrates its 4th birthday, and hosts various “pop-up” Festival stalls from apple pressing to seed swapping.
Geocaching has become hugely popular – watch out details of the festival’s own fun version; don’t get trampled in the rush !
The Festival “Char Challenge” will see local tea rooms vie for the title as a mystery shopper gives their preference.
Sunday Sounds will add some volume as nine venues offer live music on the 4th October from lunch to late

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Visiting

Chatsworth set for summer with late garden opening

29th July 2015

Chatsworth is helping visitors to make the most of the summer with special extended openings of its beautiful 105 acre garden taking place for the first time this August.

A new hop-on-hop-off Garden Train will take visitors to the furthest reaches of the garden, passing under the Cascade through Paxton’s coal tunnel; a feature of the garden not normally open to visitors. It will run every 45 minutes from outside the Orangery shop and have four other stops around the garden, located near Blanche’s vase, the Grotto pond, the Kitchen garden entrance and the Willow Tree fountain.

Flora’s Temple and the Laurent Perrier Champagne Bar on the Broadwalk will be open while all the iconic water features from the Cascade to the Emperor fountain will continue to play up until 8.30pm.

Bands will be playing every weekend in the Rose garden and a classical string trio will be adding ambience during the late garden openings.

Summer garden games based at the maze will also take place throughout the school holidays.

The garden will now stay open until 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays from August 8 to 29 inclusive to allow visitors to experience the garden at dusk when it really comes into its own.

With no additional cost to daytime admission, there is also an option to buy a discounted evening-only ticket for visits from 6pm – available on the gate or via www.chatsworth.org with free entry for Friends of Chatsworth.

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

Eastwood Park receives its first Green Flag

28th July 2015

Eastwood Park in Hasland has been declared one of the country’s finest green spaces, after receiving a prestigious Green Flag award.

The park, which is owned and maintained by Chesterfield Borough Council is one of five spaces in the borough to receive the national accolade this year.

Eastwood Park reopened in June 2013 after a redevelopment funded by the council, the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Big Lottery Fund.

This included restoring the fountain, creating a community garden, mini orchard, rose garden, wildlife area, a new play area for children as well as improvements to the car park, footpath, drainage and war memorial.

Work was also carried out to Hasland Village Hall and a new sports pavilion opened in the park this year with the project carried out by the council’s builders and apprentices.

Eastwood Park also has an active friends group and community gardeners.

The other parks in Chesterfield, which have retained their Green Flags are:
• Queen’s Park
• Holmebrook Valley Park
• Poolsbrook Country Park
• The grounds of Chesterfield and District Crematorium.

Councillor Chris Ludlow, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing said: “I’m pleased that Eastwood Park has been awarded a Green Flag Award to complement our other four award-winning parks.

“Eastwood Park is well used with a thriving friends group and community garden who take great pride in the park.

“I’d also like to thank our staff who have worked hard throughout the year to maintain each of our parks.”

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd added: “We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme.

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