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Vicar Lane works with Chesterfield organisations to support local residents

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre will launch a major community-based campaign this autumn called ‘We Care’.

In a bid to highlight a whole host of local charities and support groups available to the community, Vicar Lane will set the stage for local residents to get the help they need, make meaningful life changes and connect with others to better cope with today’s a difficult times.

All events will be FREE to join throughout September and October and although some might need a registration, there will be no need to book.

On Saturday the 10th September, visitors can attend a ‘public living room’ in front of the large screen at Vicar Lane, where members of the public can chat to mental health workers about mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s Mental Health Liaison Service and The Georgia Bird Foundation are very proud to be working in collaboration with SoBS Chesterfield, The Tomorrow Project, Mentell, Kakou and a number of amazing volunteers to hold this workshop that’s been inspired and supported by CALM’s Last Photo exhibition in London.

On Tuesday 13th September there’ll be an opportunity to get involved in a panel led discussion celebrating the collective impact that our local social enterprises bring to the community – putting people, purpose and planet first. Speakers include; Hannah Bowdler from Junction Arts, Sian Spencer-Bray from Therapy and Lifestyle Clinic, Jenny Raschbauer from Community Chesterfield and Barbara Tomasella from the University of Derby.

As the weeks go on, there’ll be pop ups and drop ins such as ‘Knit and Natter’. A local group that aims to welcome people who knit or crochet, whatever their level or skill, into a relaxed and calming environment with the opportunity to meet others. Plus, a mindfulness colouring workshop, hosted by Junction Arts. An award-winning community arts charity, focused on building confidence and improving wellbeing for all those who attend.

Events will continue to be announced and pop up around the centre so keep an eye out on https://www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk/whats_on/ for a full list of confirmed activity over the coming weeks.

Sarah Bowler, Tenant and Community Liaison Manager, Vicar Lane said, “We’re proud to be able to work with local community groups and charities to highlight the ways in which people can get support across many areas from Mindfulness to Loneliness. The cost-of-living crisis, combined with a change in season can make this time of year challenging and so we welcome everybody to get involved with the sessions on offer over the coming weeks. As part of a wider project for us to keep the focus on such important topics, we are exploring ways to ensure our staff and tenants continue to get support and training in mental health awareness and we will keep our community up to date with progress we make.’’

Vicar Lane, Community Chesterfield, Derbyshire Voluntary Action, University of Derby, Junction Arts and Therapy & Lifestyle Clinic support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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The Café at Northern Tea Merchants is open under new ownership

Northern Tea Merchants’ iconic café based on Chatsworth Road, Chesterfield, is open under new ownership and with a new name.

Kim Lamin is following a long-held dream of owning her own café and has now achieved this by taking on the reins at The Café at Northern Tea Merchants. Kim has been licensed to use the Northern Tea Merchants’ brand.

She said: “It’s always been my dream to have my own café so when the opportunity arose to run The Café at Northern Tea Merchants, I jumped at the chance. Having been a long-standing customer of Northern Tea Merchants for more than 15 years, I couldn’t say no!”

Kim has recruited three members of staff to help her run the new café – Brennan, Laura and Alida. They bring a wealth of customer service experience to their new roles.

She added: “I feel incredibly lucky to have the best team around me. Our aim with The Café at Northern Tea Merchants is to offer the best customer service, alongside great homemade food and, obviously, the best tea and coffee!”

As well as a wide selection of hot and cold drinks, The Café at Northern Tea Merchant’s now boasts a new menu which includes a range of breakfast, brunch and lunch options, including sandwiches, paninis, salads, home-made quiche, pate, jacket potatoes, cakes and Cream Teas. Afternoon Tea is also available if ordered in advance.

Welcoming Kim and her team, James Pogson, director of Northern Tea Merchants said: “Our shop and café have been a familiar site on Chatsworth Road since 2003 when we first opened. As a customer herself, Kim knows only too well the pleasure of sitting in our café enjoying one of our many teas and coffees while watching the world go by. Nothing beats it!

“We are delighted to have Kim onboard at Northern Tea Merchants. With her enthusiasm and passion, I have every confidence she will make a success of her new venture.”

The Café at Northern Tea Merchants is open Monday – Saturday 9am – 4pm (serving until 3:30pm), to book a table or order an Afternoon Tea, call 01246 232 600.

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

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Zero-carbon tourist transport network to be trialled in Chesterfield and the Peak District

A pioneering trial is taking place in the Peak District National Park where EV and hydrogen vehicles will run together between multiple destinations and attractions.

The trial is led by the Gateway at PEAK, a major new tourism resort in Chesterfield which has planning for 5,000 overnight beds and 2,800 carpark spaces.

The trial route connects eight key locations and attractions including Chesterfield Train Station, Chatsworth, and the Gateway development, which will act as a hub for PEAK Express when it is due to open in 2025. The route is designed so that there’s no more than 20 minutes between each stop, much like the gondola lifts found in international ski resorts.

Currently 85% of park visitors arrive by car and with interest in the great outdoors and the staycation market booming, the numbers are set to increase. Regional stakeholders are also keen for more diverse groups to access the park and to grow the local economy through tourism. However, this must be done in a sustainable way which doesn’t exponentially increase carbon emissions, threaten community wellness and prosperity, or damage the park’s biodiversity.

Once fully operating, PEAK Express at the Gateway alone, aims to remove 500,000 tourism journeys from the National Park, reducing CO2 emissions by 3.6 million kg pa and provide a national exemplar of sustainable visitor economy growth. The long-term ambition is to see multiple hubs located around the Peak District National Park boundary.

Andrew McCloy, Chair of the Peak District National Park Authority, said; “We are delighted to be a stakeholder for this ground-breaking trial. Protecting the National Park for future generations and developing more sustainable ways for people to visit is high on our agenda. The PEAK Gateway site outside the National Park is an excellent location for a transport hub. The Peak Express service is a commitment to net-zero and will connect more of the National Park’s attractions without the need for a car, making them more accessible and spreading out the economic benefits of tourism.”

Hydrogen fuel and refuelling stations for the trial are being supplied by the world’s largest hydrogen producer, Air Products. The electric and hydrogen buses will be provided by Toyota where data will be gathered about each technology’s suitability for the varying terrain and refuelling needs. Jon Hunt, alternative fuels manager at Toyota (GB) said; “There is not one simple solution for zero-carbon mobility. That’s why this trial provides us with an exciting opportunity to trial both EV and hydrogen vehicles, assessing which is more suitable to different types of journeys across the park. We will also be looking at optimal ways to provide refuelling and great levels of customer service on board the vehicles.”

Andrew Lavery, Chief Executive of Chatsworth, a key attraction on the route said; “Derbyshire and the Peak District are world-class destinations for domestic and international tourists, and we are thrilled to be part of this trial.  Working with partners we are committed to reducing car journeys and supporting and promoting a more sustainable way of getting to and from the Peak District. There’s also a wonderful connection with hydrogen technology and Chatsworth – Henry Cavendish discovered hydrogen in 1766 and so, this venture is very interesting.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council praised the collaborative efforts of the project team saying: “The value of this partnership is clearly demonstrated when considering significant issues like climate change, which requires collective local commitment and action if we are to make a real difference, and we are delighted to be a key partner in this trial.

“Chesterfield has excellent road and rail connections, making it the ideal base to stay and explore the Peak District from – but we are committed to a net-zero future and this trial is an exciting step forward in how we think about our regional transport links. The trial of PEAK Express at the PEAK Resort, will make it even easier – and cleaner – for visitors to experience the UK’s first national park from neighbouring destinations, like Chesterfield.”

John Milligan, CEO of Milligan developers of the Gateway added; “The PEAK Resort site has been reclaimed from opencast, rewilded and we are investing in its future. PEAK’s proposition emulates the internationally successful ski resort model, providing a mixed range of hospitality, accommodation, retail, wellness and education facilities all served by a zero-carbon mobility service connected to 1,600 miles of trails and world class attractions in the Peak District National Park.

“Milligan has been developing iconic destinations for over 20 years. Our skills lie in curating the right mix of uses which will serve the community and visitors in a sustainable way bringing long term value. This trial is part of the development’s journey to zero and marks an important milestone for Gateway and the National Park.”

The trial has been running since 5th September and will finish on the 16th. The results will be published at the beginning of November. PEAK Express is planned to be fully operational as part of the Gateway at PEAK Resort, due to open in Spring 2025.

Find out more about PEAK at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/peak-resort/

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Ambassador for Japan celebrates Derbyshire links and local produce at Chatsworth Country Fair

The Ambassador of Japan to the UK met with Derbyshire producers, artisans and craftspeople whilst celebrating Japanese links to the area during a visit to Chatsworth Country Fair on Friday 2nd September.

Ambassador Hayashi and his wife Dr Hayashi were welcomed to the popular three-day annual event by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and Cllr Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, on a visit to mark 24 years since the twinning of Derbyshire and Toyota City in Japan.

During his time at Chatsworth Country Fair, Ambassador Hayashi visited the largest-ever Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace which showcased quality Derbyshire-made items ranging from arts, crafts and homeware to fine food and drink.

Now in its third year, the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace had been doubled in size for 2022 to support the post-pandemic recovery of local businesses – giving over 50 independent Derbyshire traders the opportunity to promote and sell their products to thousands of visitors from across the UK.

Exhibitors included Phil Sproson Photography, The Wirksworth Pottery Company, Shivering Mountain Gin, Crooked Pickle Co and The Original Paperstarlights, who supplied handmade lantern decorations that adorned the roof of the Marketplace.

The Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace is part financially supported by Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s European Regional Development Fund project, which aims to support the growth of small and medium sized visitor economy businesses in Derbyshire.

Chatsworth Country Fair is widely regarded as one of England’s most spectacular annual outdoor events, celebrating traditional country pursuits together with showground entertainment, quality trade stands and fun for the whole family.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “We were delighted to mark the third successful year of the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace with our biggest celebration of Derbyshire producers to date, and we were thrilled that both the Ambassador of Japan to the UK and the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire could meet some of our traders.

“As the industry recovers from the pandemic, it was fantastic to see so many artisans and craftspeople embracing the chance to come together to showcase the high quality and innovative products made here in Derbyshire.

“As well as being very popular with visitors, thanks to support from Chatsworth and our European Regional Development Fund project the Marketplace also gave producers the chance to exhibit at a nationally-renowned, large-scale event – supporting their recovery, fuelling growth and helping them to reach new audiences.”

Cllr Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “Our long-standing partnership with Toyota City has brought thousands of jobs and huge investment to the county over the last 24 years.

“Increasing trade and boosting tourism are key priorities for the partnership so it was a pleasure to welcome Ambassador Hayashi to experience what Derbyshire tourism and producers have to offer. And with another milestone anniversary ahead for the partnership next year, we’ll be strengthening our friendship with Toyota City further with a programme of events to build on our existing relationship and focus in on those key priorities to benefit both our economies.”

The Duke of Devonshire said: “As the most enthusiastic advocates of Derbyshire, we were pleased to welcome the return of the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace to Chatsworth Country Fair. The region is fortunate to have many quality producers, artists and craftspeople and it’s fantastic to share these with an even wider audience.

“It was also our great pleasure to welcome Ambassador Hayashi to this year’s Country Fair, to help celebrate Derbyshire’s links with Toyota City and to experience a taste of what Derbyshire has to offer.”

More than 75,000 people flocked to the Chatsworth Country Fair over the weekend (2-4 September).

Stunt horses and daredevil riders from Atkinson Action Horses thrilled the crowds by demonstrating skills that have seen them star in blockbuster films and television shows including Peaky Blinders, The Midwich Cuckoos and Netflix’s ‘The Witcher’; while the Bolddog Lings FMX Display Team drew gasps with their gravity-defying motorbike stunts.

Star chefs Mary Berry, James Martin and John Torode and a host of top-flight Derbyshire chefs drew hundreds to their demonstrations in the Cookery Theatre, while Country Fair President Phil Spencer held court in the Grand Ring. The television personality introduced an action packed programme including show-stopping entertainment from favourites such as a Spitfire flyover, a parachute display, Pony Mounted Games, music from massed bands and much more.

As honorary Country Fair President, TV presenter Phil Spencer performed his official duties, such as opening the show, as well as greeting visitors, performers and exhibitors: “It’s a real privilege to have been asked by the Duke and Duchess to stand as President this year. I love to be involved in communities and pastimes that help make the great British countryside all that it is so I’ve had a terrific few days sharing the experience among so many thousands of smiling faces.”

Chatsworth House and Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Visitors set to get their boots on for the Chesterfield Canal Walking Festival

The biggest walking festival based on a single canal in the UK returns to Chesterfield this month, with visitors encouraged to get their boots on and enjoy some of our area’s breathtaking scenery.

The fourth Chesterfield Canal Walking Festival will start on Saturday 10th September. There will be 36 walks in all, running every day to Sunday 18th September.

There are special interest walks, such as History, Architecture, Wildlife and Restoration. There are opportunities to explore some of the attractive towns and villages in North Nottinghamshire or you can combine a walk with a cruise on one of the Trust’s trip boats.

One walk includes a visit to a football stadium, another offers the chance to see beavers. There is a cycle ride with a difference and a ramble through ancient woodlands. Waterway and railway enthusiasts will relish the opportunity of a canal and river walk finishing up at Britain’s last surviving working Railway Roundhouse at Barrow Hill. Serious walkers will jump at the chance of walking the full length of the canal in the course of three days.

The festival is organised by the Chesterfield Canal Trust, whose Walks Officer, David Blackburn, said: “We look forward to seeing old friends again and hope to welcome many newcomers too. We believe that our 46 mile long canal has parts that are as attractive as any in the country. Do take the opportunity to join a walk in an area with which you are not familiar, and you will hopefully be pleasantly surprised.”

All the walks are free except for those combined with a boat. They must be booked in advance, either online via the Trust’s website – search for Chesterfield Canal Trust – or by ringing 01246 477569. A brochure with full details is available at various places along the canal, including Hollingwood Hub and local Tourist Information Centres. It is also available online. Some walks are already full, so it is advisable to book now to avoid disappointment.

The Chesterfield Canal Trust wishes to thank all the walk leaders, the many organisations which have helped and the festival’s sponsors: Harworth Group, Canal & River Trust, Derbyshire Grants Programme, Eckington Parish Council and West Stockwith Parish Council.

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

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Volunteers required for the 2022 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k

A call has been issued for volunteer marshals, to help at this year’s Chesterfield 10k. The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k takes place on Sunday 16th October, beginning from 10am at Queen’s Park.

Volunteer marshals will help to play a key role in the success of the event and will be stationed at various points around the 10k course, assisting and supporting participants, residents, and spectators.

John Timms, Event Director, said: “The Chesterfield 10k wouldn’t be possible without the help of our volunteer marshals, and we’re eager to make this year’s 10k memorable whilst supporting the local charities; Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and The Redbrik Foundation.

“We are calling on volunteers to support the runners, cheer them on and get them around the course safely.

“The 10k truly is a community event, and volunteering is a great way to get involved without running the race itself. If you’ve got family and friends taking part, or if you’d simply like to get involved on the day, signing up to be a marshal is a great way to support the charities that provide extremely valuable services.”

James Branson, Senior Events Fundraiser at Ashgate Hospice, said: “Runners and spectators at the 10k last year all say how the atmosphere was fantastic, largely thanks to the support and enthusiasm of all our volunteers.

“If you can spare a few hours, it’s such a rewarding experience to witness the determination of the runners, as well as the amazing community spirit of the supporting locals.

“Marshalling is very straightforward, and you don’t need any experience. All volunteers are well looked after before and during the race.”

If you are aged 18 or older and are interested in volunteering at the 2022 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k, contact Ashgate Hospice at events@ashgatehospice.org.uk or call the Fundraising Team on 01246 567250.

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

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Family fun day to take place in Chesterfield Town Centre this September

Families are being invited to take part in a day of fun and activities, as Vicar Lane Shopping Centre in Chesterfield hosts ‘One Great Day’ later this month.

The fundraising event on 17th September is a series of family and community charity events being held throughout the country to raise money for Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH) and local charities.

This year Vicar Lane is proud to be sharing donations with GOSH and local children’s hospice Bluebell Wood.

From 11am – 3pm, families can take part in Chester’s Challenge, which is a football shootout led by Chesterfield FC’s very own cheeky mascot. There’ll be an opportunity to explore a Derbyshire White Watch fire engine plus lots of outdoor games, fabulous face-painting and an exciting Tombola to take part in. Vicar Lane Shopping Centre is asking for a small voluntary donation from visitors to take part in each activity.

Vicar Lane will be hosting a raffle with some great prizes up for grabs on the day, including a delicious meal for two at Pizza Pi, x2 traditional afternoon teas at Café Nellie and a £30 for M’s Gallery. Raffle tickets will be available to buy from the Centre Management Suite opposite Iceland from 3rd September right through until the 17th. Visitors will also be able to purchase tickets on the day.

The centre is also offering something extra for visitors. From 7pm there’ll be a special charity outdoor movie screening of classic comedy-drama film Mrs. Doubtfire. Tickets are available to buy now and are expected to go fast, so please book early to avoid disappointment. Packages available include food and drink options with Salute’s mobile prosecco bar in attendance.

Keep an eye on Vicar Lane’s social media channels for individual offers and promotions that retailers and restaurants will be offering in aid of One Great Day.

Brandon Howard, Centre Administrator, Vicar Lane said, “We’re really looking forward to welcoming the people of Chesterfield to Vicar Lane to help us raise much needed funds for two amazing charities. We’ve worked hard to put on an array of entertainment which all age groups should enjoy and we hope that we can encourage the community to join us, in raising as much money as possible!”

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Chesterfield organisations support breastfeeding mothers with safe spaces

Community groups and local establishments in Chesterfield are working to ensure mothers can feed their children in a safe and welcoming environment.

An initiative has been launched by the University of Derby, who have announced they are opening their doors to offer a free and friendly breastfeeding support group. The drop-in sessions will run from the 15th of September on the first and third Thursday of the month, between 10:30am – 12:00pm at the Chesterfield St Helena campus.

Whether you are expecting a child, are new to parenting, or are further down your parenting journey- all are welcome. The group will be led by experienced breastfeeding supporters, who are trained and supervised by Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire. They will provide non-judgemental support and information for families attending the group.

“It’s great that the Community Chesterfield Project has enabled us to work with the University of Derby in this way.” Says Alexandra Dilkes from Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire. “It’s a wonderful venue, centrally located and easy to get to.”

Free refreshments will be provided, as well as a selection of toys to entertain the little ones. There is plenty of public parking available within a 2-minute walk of the venue but none on Campus.

“I am so glad that we were able to bring Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire back to the University of Derby in Chesterfield, they make such a big difference to parents – particularly in the early days of being a parent. It’s thanks to the University that we have been able to offer the group such a fantastic venue.” Says Jennifer Raschbauer from Community Chesterfield.

Over the last two years, local volunteers from Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire, known as Feeding Together Bolsover and Chesterfield, haven’t let the pandemic stop them supporting families. They have been providing remote support and running regular ‘Parent in the Park’ walks at Poolsbrook Country Park.

The organisation will also be running sessions at Staveley Healthy Living Centre and Bolsover Children’s Centre. To find out what exciting things they’ve got coming up, check out their Facebook pages (@Bolsoverbfgroup and @bfnderbyshire).

Meanwhile, community hub and café, Monkey Park has announced it has retained its ‘Breastfeeding Welcome Here’ status once again.

The organisation has gained recognition from Derbyshire County Council, which commends businesses who actively support staff to make premises welcome for mothers to breastfeed. This can have a positive impact on making women feel able to breastfeed in public.

The Council says taking part in the initiative also provides a number of benefits for businesses, including:

  • attracting families by making them feel welcome, they will, therefore, be likely to stay longer and spend more
  • breastfeeding mums are also likely to return time after time to venues that they feel comfortable in
  • improved customer service
  • providing good publicity
  • attracting new customers

Valerie Wilkinson , operational manager at Monkey Park community hub, said; “Monkey Park is once again pleased to be recognised as a Breastfeeding Welcome café. This means nursing mothers won’t ever be asked to move-or leave. We strive to be an inclusive and welcoming space for everyone. “

“We love to support our local community, and if we can help make parents more comfortable in our space when feeding their little ones then we are extremely proud to be recognised for this achievement.

“We hope our cosy café is a safe space for all parents to nurse their little ones, but if anyone would like more privacy when feeding then we do have a separate room where the blinds can be drawn for extra privacy and comfort if desired.

“Our staff will always offer nursing parents a glass of water as we understand that feeding your infant can be very thirsty work. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to our cosy and friendly café, and we hope we can make your visit enjoyable and comfortable.”

Monkey Park, Community Chesterfield and University of Derby support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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UK’s first ever ‘Splash Zone’ for dogs unveiled in Chesterfield

An award-winning  Chesterfield doggy day care centre has launched a brand-new splash zone for our canine companions.

Rose Cottage developed the new feature, thought to be the first of its kind in the country, in response to the recent heatwave seen in many parts of the UK. It means dogs at the centre can enjoy playing in the water while keeping cool during the summer months.

Dawn Brown, owner of Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care commented: “I developed the Splash zone as this another petal to our Rose I am always thinking of ways in which we can be the best at what we do, and this means always thinking ahead,  we knew Summer was approaching and what is a better way to keep your Dogs cool than their very own a splash zone.

“We are a mini theme park for Dogs and playing in clean free flowing water with their pals is also mentally stimulating, great for joints and teaches the dogs how to play in a different kind of environment.”

Exercising in the water can have a number of benefits for dogs, as Dawn outlined: “Since water is denser than air, your dog’s movement through the water causes a resistance that is evenly distributed against their body, so this movement helps to work all of the muscles without gravity pushing down on their joints. The water is not to deep so at a safe level to play, get fit and strong while having fun.”

Dawn also commented on how exited the team at Rose Cottage was to bring the new feature to fruition: “I can’t tell you how much of a buzz I get when one of my ideas comes to life and I see just how happy the Dogs are playing in there it just makes all the hard work of getting it ready worthwhile.

“Seeing a dog leave an owner’s car in the morning and head straight towards my gate with their tail wagging eager to enter Rose Cottage makes it even more special. I’m so happy I can provide a little piece of haven for dogs in our town and I am constantly thinking of more initiative ways of adding to Rose Cottage. We also have our very own online shop www.doglanddeals.com  and more to come so watch this space!”

“To use the splash zone, you need to register your doggy with us. This is easy to do with our online forms at: www.rosecottagedoggydaycare.co.uk

Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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New veterinary practice opens in North Derbyshire

A North Derbyshire veterinary practice has opened a new state-of-the-art centre in Barlborough Links, near Chesterfield.

Carrick Vets (originally based in Clowne) – opened the doors to the public to view their new home – a state-of the-art veterinary practice located adjacent to Dobbies Garden Centre.

The new site is easily accessible and offers current and new pet owners an exciting range of services and facilities in a very modern environment, whilst maintaining a warm and welcoming atmosphere and a whole host of additional benefits.

Jessica Podmore, MRCVS Veterinary Surgeon and Clinical Director explained: “The new practice has all the space we need with plenty of parking and complements the services already offered by our branches in Holywell Street, Chesterfield and Mansfield.

“We now have an additional consulting room allowing us to offer a greater availability of appointments.  Separate dog and cat waiting areas and hospital wards keeps stress to a minimum for our patients.   A large operating theatre, separate dental suite, in-house laboratory and x-ray room offer a wide range of the latest veterinary equipment including digital x-ray facilities.

“For the welfare and benefit of both our colleagues and clients, internal signage is DDI compliant, the reception desk is designed to comfortably accommodate wheelchair users and we also have temperature control in every area of the practice – a welcome addition especially during heatwaves like we have experienced recently which is of course perfect for our patients too!”

Dog owners, in particular, will be able to enjoy all the benefits that Dobbies has to offer thanks to their dog-friendly policy.  In addition to plants, outdoor furniture and everything you need for your garden and home, Dobbies offers a great range of pet products as well as a dog-friendly restaurant.

Jim Wehrle, General Manager of Dobbies, said: “The service provided by the new practice really complements the dog-friendly approach and products we have at Chesterfield. With The Muddy Paw dog groomers also on site, it’s a really comprehensive offering for our customers with pets.

“We look forward to working in collaboration with the Carrick Vets team and ensuring the best possible offering for Chesterfield customers.”

Dobbies and Carrick Vets share similar values both striving to make their businesses as environmentally sustainable as possible; supporting charities and the local community and delivering the best customer care and experience.

As the UK’s leading garden centre retailer, Dobbies is committed to delivering environmentally-friendly practices, products and sustainable solutions.

Carrick Vets is also committed to becoming more sustainable and has 100% of its electricity supply from EDF Energy backed by Renewable Energy and Intelligent, low energy lighting for maximum energy savings throughout the practice.  They also operate initiatives to reduce waste, reuse where possible and recycle anything that they cannot reuse.

Consultations at Carrick are by appointment only.  Please call to book an appointment before attending the practice.  New client registrations are most welcome.

For opening hours and more information about Carrick Vets visit our website www.carrickvets.co.uk

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New store for motorcycle and truck accessories opens at The Glass Yard

A store selling goods for motorcyclists and truckers has opened in one of Chesterfield’s newest retail developments, The Glass Yard. 

The Glass Yard SpeedShop has been opened by local company Securit GB Ltd; which was created by husband and wife team, Phil and Caroline Churm. The company has previously been based in Staveley and on Foxwood Road in Chesterfield.

The business has had to adapt several times since being founded in 2004, as a result of factors such as the 2008 recession and Brexit.

However, the company saw a sharp rise in online sales for its MotoWear brand during the Covid-19 pandemic. MotoWear provides unique motorcycle and trucker merchandise, with 75% of the product lines designed and printed in-house. The rest of the lines are manufactured in the UK.

During the pandemic, Securit GB Ltd also took the opportunity of grant and loan support  for the business, enabling the couple to invest in new print machines and time to design & create new exciting lines. This enabled the firm to return to events with an exciting new range.

Caroline explained how the company wanted to take the next step by having a physical retail presence at The Glass Yard:

“We want to open a destination for people to visit in person. It’s a unique open-plan shop, with the motorcycle, truck accessories, and merchandise, with additional space available for the design and print side of the business. We are also able to create one-off merchandise for presents and companies.”

The shop will be offering a ‘click and collect service for its online products too, and will be hosting events for bikers, starting on 2nd October 2022.

Caroline added: “The Glass Yard is an amazingly fresh & modern place to work and trade. As soon as we visited the place we knew we wanted to open a shop.

“We have always been located in Chesterfield, we love the people and Phil grew up in the area, the council has always been proactive towards small businesses and we have a lot of support in the area from family and friends.

“We hope that The Glass Yard SpeedShop will increase our sales and give the customer a different experience other than online. People want to stay local and shop locally. Since we have been open people are happy to visit and use a local company.”

Find out more about Chesterfield’s great range of independent retailers at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/

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