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New Chesterfield business provides hours of fun with Nintendo Switch consoles and giant golf simulator

A new business open in Chesterfield promises to provide people of all ages with fun activities, with the ability to host huge multiplayer games on Nintendo Switch consoles, along with a state-of-the-art golf simulator.

Leisure Pod is based at Tapton Park Golf Course, providing people of all abilities the chance to work on their swing indoors when the conditions outdoors are less than favourable.

The golf simulator technology transports players virtually to some of the world’s most famous courses, such as The Belfry. It can be booked by more serious players looking to perfect their game, or those looking to have a bit of fun.

Leisure Pod can also be booked for parties, with youngsters (or those young at heart!) able to play on Switch Games such as Ring Fit, Just Dance and Mario Kart.

The venue is kitted out with gaming chairs for the ultimate immersive experience. Disco lights are also provided, so the room can also be used for other functions, parties and activities.

Speaking recently on The Chesterfield Show Podcast, founder Kelvin Wilson said: “Back during the first lockdown I bought a golf simulator for personal use.

“But then I quickly realised with the help of my family that it could be a cinema, we could hook Nintendo Switch consoles up to it, put disco lights in and use it as a party space; and that’s how Leisure Pod was born.

“The venue is brilliant for corporate parties, kids parties and individual use too. The reason we chose Nintendo Switch is because my background is in health and fitness. I want people to be active.”

Kelvin also has optimism for other leisure businesses in the town which have opened recently in the wake of the pandemic.

He said: “The leisure industry, like every industry during Covid has taken a massive hit, but I think that coming out of it now, it is definitely going to flourish.

“Golf has had a massive uptake so I want to keep that golf offer for when it gets dark and the weather isn’t great outside. We are not elitist in this room, I don’t care if people haven’t picked a golf club up in their life; It is about the enjoyment.”

Leisure Pod also has the ability to bring Nintendo Switch parties to your house or other external venues. For more information about the new business, go to: https://leisurepodhire.com/

 

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Chesterfield wins Gold in East Midlands In Bloom

Chesterfield has won Gold in the small city category at the East Midlands In Bloom Awards.

Representatives from the Chesterfield In Bloom committee and Chesterfield Borough Council were presented with the award at a ceremony on Wednesday 22 September.

They were also presented with a Judge’s Award for the development of Edinburgh Road Pocket Park and received commendations in the Least Littered and the Wildlife and Conservation Area categories.

Councillor Jill Mannion-Brunt, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “It’s fantastic to receive this recognition for our marvellous floral displays. It is a real testament to the hard work of both local volunteers and our officers in ensuring our borough is a bright and beautiful place to live, with lots of fantastic green spaces for everyone to enjoy.”

Chris Turner, chair of the Chesterfield In Bloom committee, said: “I’m delighted that we’ve been recognised for all our hard work over the last year. It takes a lot of effort from many different community groups and the council to ensure the borough is looking its best in time for judging. In Chesterfield we have lots of great green spaces and the work done helps ensure these are looking their best.”

Judging for East Midlands In Bloom took place in July and the judges were taken on a tour of the borough, starting in Queen’s Park, they visited the town centre, Holmebrook Valley Country Park, the Britannia Inn, Hunloke Allotments, Brimington Circle and the new pocket park on Edinburgh Road Park.

Edinburgh Road Pocket Park was completed earlier this year and features a number of raised beds that have been planted with wildflowers and plants to support pollinators like bees, new paving and local urban artist Peter Barber has created a wall mural that celebrates nature behind the raised beds.

Chesterfield is also competing in Britain In Bloom and will find out the results later this year.

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Volunteers required for the 2021 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k

Charity partners of the 2021 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k are on the lookout for volunteers to get involved with this year’s event, which takes place on 17th October, beginning at 10am from Queen’s Park, Chesterfield.

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, local residents and spectators.

John Timms, Event Director, said: “Due to the pandemic cancelling the 2020 event, we are eager to make this year’s 10k memorable whilst fundraising in support of the local charities; Ashgate Hospicecare, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and The Redbrik Foundation.

“We are calling on volunteers to support Ashgate Hospicecare and Bluebell Wood and all the runners, cheer them on and get them around the course safely.

“The 10k is also a great way to gather the local communities back together again after a difficult past year during the pandemic and what better way to come together than supporting these charities that provide extremely valuable services.”

Carl Jones, Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospicecare, added: “I would like to personally encourage individuals to take the opportunity to get involved.

“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.

“Access to marshal points is very straightforward and 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 2021 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k, contact the events team at Ashgate Hospicecare on 01246 233404 or email events@ashgatehospicecare.org.uk.

The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k will take in some of Chesterfield’s most prominent landmarks, starting and finishing in the famous Queen’s Park.

You can find out more about the event in a conversation with Event Director, John Timms and The Redbrik Foundation’s David Cooper on the latest episode of The Chesterfield Show Podcast, now available on Spotify.

Redbrik  supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

competition

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New soft play, entertainment and dessert venue open in Chesterfield

A brand new venue for children is set to open in Chesterfield, which will house family-friendly entertainment, a soft play area and mouth-watering desserts.

Kooca will be open seven days a week, from 10am to 6pm to help provide fun for your little ones, while you, your family and friends tuck into an indulgent treat.

The venue on Beetwell Street will officially open its doors to the public from Saturday, 2nd October, with toy cars and pony cycles also included to enable children to have a fun experience.

Special events such as Halloween and Christmas parties will also be lined up at the new venue, which aims to provide hours of fun for youngsters across North Derbyshire and beyond.

Operations Director Ian Biggin said: “Our intention is simply to be Chesterfield’s Premier Children’s Soft Play, Entertainment, Party and Dessert Venue.

“Kooca features the latest in soft play design, along with a family friendly entertainment venue which will host shows and events throughout the year.

“We can offer bespoke party packages from tailored group experiences including food and drink packages up to exclusive venue hire for your special event.”

Kooca will be offering guests a delicious range of treats for guests, including freshly made waffles topped off with locally-made Frederick’s ice cream, coffees with flavoured shots, milkshakes and much more.

Further plans for the new business include the development of ‘Our Tiny Town’ in which the business’s owners will work with teams from Chesterfield borough council and Chesterfield College to create a miniature replica of Chesterfield within the building.

You can find out more about Kooca, and all the exciting events taking place there over on the venue’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/koocaltd or by calling 01246 604670.

There is so much to do across Chesterfield to keep the whole family entertained. Find out what you could be getting up to in the town on our ‘Places to Visit’ page.

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Ashgate Hospicecare appeals for volunteers to help with Sparkle Night Walk

Ashgate Hospicecare is appealing for volunteers to come forward and support one of the biggest fundraising events of the year, the Sparkle Night Walk 2021.

The popular event is set to return this weekend, Saturday, 25th September, after being cancelled in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The route comprises of a 10km course down the A61 bypass, past the iconic Crooked Spire and through the streets of Chesterfield, beginning and ending at Chesterfield FC’s Technique Stadium.

Peter Stone, Ashgate Hospicecare’s Director of Income Generation said: “We need more volunteers than ever before to help more than 1,600 Sparkler Walkers hit our target of £150,000 for the event.

“The funds the Sparkle Walk raises are vital for our work – although it isn’t just about the money as people take part to remember someone they have lost.

“It’s a hugely significant event for many families of people who the Hospice has cared for and when those bunny-ear clad folk are winding their way through Chesterfield through the night and then start to turn again towards the morning, it’s a sight not to be missed!”

“We need volunteer marshals on the route to cheer everybody on and help them remember why they’re taking part.”

Marshals would need to arrive at 8pm and will be needed until between midnight and 1.30am. Anyone who would like to help but can’t stay for the whole event is able to marshal at an early post, or the organisers can find another role for you.

Any volunteers wishing to bring along family or friends to help, they will be very welcome. All volunteers will be fully briefed and placed with an experienced volunteer where possible.

Volunteers will also receive a free hot drink and a free bacon roll (or a vegan alternative) – and a chance to make Chesterfield really sparkle!

If you can volunteer on Saturday, Contact events@ashgatehospicecare.org.uk or call on 01246 233404.

Ashgate Hospicecare supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

sparkle night walk

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Chesterfield Royal Hospital Christmas card competition returns for 2021

The Chesterfield Royal Hospital charity has launched its annual Christmas card competition, with the team hoping this year’s will be the biggest and best yet.

Young people across the area are being encouraged to submit their festive designs ahead of the 12th November deadline, with the winning designs to be professionally produced and sold to raise funds for the charity this Christmas.

Ken Godber, Charity Director at Chesterfield Royal Hospital said: “The response we had last year was wonderful and the standard incredibly high. It was heart-warming to see so many youngsters come together and get creative in support of the charity and this hospital and we appreciate so many schools making it a part of their lessons and activities.

“We all know that last Christmas was a difficult one for so many people so we’re hoping for an even better response this year and would like to everyone to get into the Christmas spirit a little earlier and encourage your children or grandchildren to send us their designs. It’s for a fantastic cause and all money raised through the sale of these Christmas cards will go towards helping our patients to receive the very best care and treatment and to provide our staff with a great place to work.”

If you know a young person who would like to get involved with designing a card, they can find the entry form for the competition at: https://www.chesterfieldroyal.nhs.uk/our-charity/annual-christmas-card-competition-2021

To enter, email your scanned entries to crhft.communications@nhs.net or alternatively you can post to:

Communications Office
Chesterfield Royal Hospital
Calow
Chesterfield
S44 5BL

Remember to include an entry slip with your design (either included in the email or pop it in the envelope with your design.)

The hospital is also encouraging people to share the competition with other young people, local schools family and friends so more people can get involved.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital  supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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New games quarter to open in Chesterfield town centre

A brand-new leisure offering is set to open in Chesterfield, bringing a variety of new activities for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Chesterfield Games quarter is an exciting new development in Soresby Street in the Town Centre. The attraction is a collaboration of four Leisure and Gaming businesses, set to offer a variety of gaming genres all in one location.

Two new exciting businesses have chosen to move to the location due to the popularity of Chesterfield Escape Rooms since its opening earlier this year and Geeks Headquarters, which has grown in popularity for players of trading card games, board games, roleplaying games and miniature games.

Chesterfield VR – A Virtual Reality gaming centre and Chesterfield Games Zone (GMZN), a PC and gaming arcade will officially open their doors in November 2021, bringing a variety of fun activities for people of all ages.

Chesterfield Escape Rooms has also confirmed that due to an amazing response from the public, the attraction is set to expand further.

Games masters at the popular venue are in the process of creating an additional game in time for Christmas called “Santa’s Stuck up the Chimney,” with a fifth game set to launch in February 2022.

The Escape Rooms already offers three games for visitors, known as ‘The Governor,’ ‘Rob The Bank’ and ‘The Crazy Cat Lady.’

Nick Hogan, owner of Chesterfield Escape Rooms stated: “It’s a huge coup for the town to attract two new fledgling businesses to invest in the town centre and create something very unique, especially as all four owners live in the local area.

“We cant wait to get this opportunity, which shall serve the needs of all age groups, off the ground in late November.”

Chesterfield Escape Rooms supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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Popular 1940s market set to return in Chesterfield

Residents and visitors to Chesterfield can enjoy themselves during half term as the annual 1940s market returns for 2021.

Taking place on Thursday 28 October between 10am and 4pm, visitors can enjoy 40s music, entertainment, exhibits and meet the stall holders in period dress.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The 1940s Market is one of the most popular events in our calendar and I’m delighted that we’ve managed to bring it back this year.

“I hope lots of people will come along and support our local businesses and traders, there will be lots to see and it will be fun for all ages.”

Kalamazoo dance band will make their return to Chesterfield and will be performing throughout the day in New Square.

A replica Spitfire will be on display outside the Visitor Information Centre and visitors can learn more about the role of these planes in World War Two.

There will also be a display of vintage vehicles including cars, military vehicles, and a classic fire engine.

The weekly flea market will take place in the market place with traders in 1940s costume. There will be a competition for the best dressed trader and visitors are encouraged to get into the 40s spirit by dressing in period costumes.

Chesterfield Museum will also be open as usual from 10am to 4pm where visitors can learn more about the town’s history, including a final chance to visit the Put That Light Out exhibition, which finishes on 30 October.

The exhibition looks at life in Chesterfield during World War Two, featuring displays and objects that will help visitors learn more about rationing, holidays at home, the Women’s Voluntary Service and the Home Guard. Entry to the Museum is free but donations are welcome.

More activities and entertainers are still being confirmed, find out more about the event by visiting: www.visitchesterfield.info/40s

The 1940s Market is a free event that aims to bring more visitors and shoppers to the town centre to support local businesses and market traders.

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Drinks Partner Confirmed for Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k

The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k has confirmed a new official soft drinks supplier for its 2021 event in Queen’s Park.

Franklin & Sons Soft Drinks, part of the Global Brands franchise of businesses, will provide drinks for runners goody bags at the 2021 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k, which is taking place on Sunday 17 October 2021, starting at 10:00am.

Franklin & Sons are also providing a selection of prizes, including drinks from their range, as well as overnight stays & meals at the CASA and Peak Edge Hotels for Redbrik 10k’s event winners.

Sam Coles, Brand Manager at Franklin & Sons, said: “As our Head Office is based in Chesterfield, we’re proud to again sponsor the Redbrik 10k. An event that brings the local community together, raises money for some fantastic charities, whilst supporting the health and wellbeing of local people.”

John Timms, Event Director at the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k, said: “We’re delighted to have Franklin & Sons on board for the race and runners no doubt will be too.”

“This is the latest in a long line of important partnerships with renowned local and regional businesses, all of which are crucial to growing this event and locally, regionally and nationally.”

“We want to make the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k an event for all ages – we’re really excited to see everything come to fruition on event day and seeing our runners get some refreshing drinks when they cross the finish line after all their hard work!”

To sign up to the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k visit: www.chesterfield10k.com

The route will take runners past a number of the town’s landmarks, including the cobbled streets of the town centre and the iconic crooked spire. It will also feature service and cheer stations on the course and will have a later 10am start.

Global Brands and Redbrik support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

competition

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Chatsworth House to celebrate 20 years of iconic festive exhibitions

Chatsworth is set to celebrate The Magic of Christmas with a look back over the 20 years since the house first opened for the festive season in 2001, to help revive Derbyshire’s tourism industry which was badly affected by foot and mouth disease that year.

Visitors will see nods to a variety of themes that have featured in the house over the past two decades, as they enjoy decorations designed to capture the magic of the festive season.

With the outbreak of foot and mouth disease in February 2001, the countryside was effectively closed to visitors until the summer, which had a huge impact on the whole visitor economy. At that time, Chatsworth normally closed from October to Easter but in 2001, the 11th Duke of Devonshire decided to keep the house open in the hope that it would encourage visitors to come into the area and help the local economy.

What was originally intended as a one-off Christmas season proved an instant hit, attracting thousands of visitors, and has become the biggest event in the calendar for the Derbyshire estate.

The return of the festive season this year following the restrictions on businesses due to the pandemic in 2020 and 2021 brings the story full circle, as hopes are high for a Christmas full of reflection, reminiscence and positivity, as the country continues on a path to recovery.

Since 2001, Christmas at Chatsworth has grown in size and scale, with displays becoming more elaborate each season making it a much anticipated and popular activity for thousands of people who return year after year keen to see what’s in store. With a different theme each year, Christmas at Chatsworth has become increasingly grand and more ambitious, involving dozens of specially grown Christmas trees, yards of great garlands, and copious amounts of fairy lights.

This year’s standout feature looks set to be the snow installation in the Inner Court. A newly installed lamppost will bring to mind the snowy scenes from Narnia, while other rooms on the Christmas route will evoke seasons past from the traditions of the Victorian era and the world of Charles Dickens to the imaginary worlds of Mr Toad and Alice in Wonderland.

Following its successful introduction last year, there will once again be a festive light installation in the garden to make a Christmas visit last even longer. Visitors can enjoy an illuminated walk round the garden, with atmospheric lighting bringing a festive sparkle on a route past the Emperor Fountain, Rock Garden and the Cascade surrounded by hundreds of glowing lights.

Tickets are on sale now with the timed slots still in place to help manage the flow of visitors at all times. This year will also see the return of the famous Chatsworth Christmas market, with over 100 stalls offering a wide range of Christmas gifts and decorations taking place on Lodge Hill next to the house from 6-24 November 2021.

Over in the farmyard, there will be a variety of festive activities, with more details to follow. Early booking is recommended.

For information and advance booking, visit www.chatsworth.org

Chatsworth supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Peak District and Derbyshire Christmas Market returns for 2021

A popular virtual Christmas market showcasing some of Derbyshire’s best creatives, artisans and producers will return from this November.

Following the success of the first virtual Peak District & Derbyshire Christmas Market last year, traders will once again be given the opportunity to showcase and sell their products to thousands of potential customers.

Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire is inviting stallholders to apply for a place at the virtual market, which aims to support the recovery of local businesses that have been impacted by Covid-19 restrictions by boosting online sales whilst celebrating the range of quality gifts available in the area.

The free opportunity is open to small-to-medium-sized businesses based in Derby and Derbyshire – ranging from food and drink producers to artists and craftspeople – and is part-funded by Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s European Regional Development Fund project.

The virtual market is also open to members of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire who offer vouchers for afternoon teas, meals, short stays, annual passes, workshops and experiences, with a focus on products that make great Christmas presents.

Categories include Accessories & Jewellery; Art, Ceramics & Glass; Experiences & Annual Passes; Local Food & Drink; Homeware & Books; Landscape Calendars & Prints; Short Breaks & Afternoon Tea; and Pet-friendly Gifts.

Successful applicants will be featured on the virtual Peak District & Derbyshire Christmas Market webpage at visitpeakdistrict.com, where hyperlinks and imagery will lead to the stallholder’s own selling platform – allowing visitors to browse and purchase fine, festive gifts with ease.

Businesses can apply for a place using the following link: surveymonkey.co.uk/r/VPDDXmasMarket21

Closing date for applications is Tuesday 12 October 2021. Successful applicants will be notified via email and the market will go live on Monday 1 November 2021.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “Christmas markets are a key part of the festive season and, at a time when shopping local is more important than ever, we’re delighted to offer a platform to promote the very best Derbyshire gifts, produce and experiences.

“Over 100 stallholders exhibited at last year’s virtual Christmas Market and we hope this year will be even bigger, giving visitors and residents alike a chance to throw their support behind local businesses following another challenging year of Covid-19 restrictions.

“We have so many talented producers and craftspeople in Derbyshire and we’re encouraging businesses to apply for a place and join us in celebrating the best of what the area has to offer.”

Chesterfield retail, leisure and food & drink businesses are also encouraged to find out more about the benefits of the Chesterfield Digital High Street project, where support and grants are being offered to help firms improve their digital footprint and overall resilience.

Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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