Love Chesterfield

Let’s make the most of Chesterfield’s summer

Destination Chesterfield board member, Ann Fomukong-Boden shares her excitement for a packed summer of events in Chesterfield.

Nothing beats spending time in the sunshine with loved ones. As someone with a young family, I cherish summer because it brings more opportunities for quality time together and the warmer weather certainly helps.

This year, we’re asking local people to share their ideas for an ideal weekend in Chesterfield, so I attempted to write down mine here. In the end, that many ideas came to mind that I mapped out a whole summer of weekends for our readers to enjoy.

I recommend kicking off the season at the Rail Ale Festival, where Chesterfield’s rich heritage meets fantastic food & drink, alongside plenty of live entertainment. The festival buzzes with energy—old locomotives as a backdrop, friends catching up, and hundreds of ales, ciders and spirits to sample. Each beer tells a story, though I’d recommend pacing yourself.

For those drawn to colour and celebration, Chesterfield Pride delivers. Visualise a sea of rainbows, people dancing, music pumping, and joy radiating from every corner. A decade on from its first outing, this event still brings an unmatched vibrancy.

A stroll through Hardwick Hall’s gardens proved a wonderfully wholesome day out with my little one recently. This summer, take a picnic and settle in for Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream or the hilarious The Most Perilous Comedie of Elizabeth I. Watching live performances as the sun sets over the stately home? Truly magical.

For cricket lovers, the BRM Festival of Cricket at Queen’s Park stands out. We’ve attended the last two years and have already got tickets for Derbyshire vs. Yorkshire. The crack of the bat, the cheering crowd, and the ball being smashed for six creates a highly entertaining afternoon. I’d advise whispering it, but our record against Yorkshire here in Chesterfield has been pretty good lately!

Queen’s Park also hosts the Chesterfield Children’s Festival – an event I proudly support as a Junction Arts trustee. Each year, the dedicated team crafts an inspiring space filled with hands-on workshops and live performances. Seeing little ones sing, dance, and create memories around the bandstand is such a joyful sight for any parent.

Back into town, and ThinkFest marks its fifth year of encouraging open conversations about mental health. This uplifting event blends live music, community spirit, and valuable support services. Make a day of it—enjoy performances under the big screen, then stop by your favourite café for cake and a drink.

With so much happening, let’s make the most of Chesterfield’s summer—it always flies by too fast! Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer

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Historic Chesterfield pub set for grand reopening

A prominent Chesterfield town centre pub is set to welcome customers back this weekend, following a change of ownership and refurbishment.

The Spread Eagle is set to reopen this Friday, offering customers a first look at the revamped venue, which promises a welcoming and homely atmosphere.

The pub on Beetwell Street will boast traditional pub food, Sunday roasts and a broad drinks selection, with a cosy interior and a modern outdoor terrace for taking in the sunshine on a summer evening.

Chef and entrepreneur, Matthew Rushton has masterminded the project to bring The Spread Eagle back to life, following more than a decade of success as owner of The Galleon Steakhouse on St. Mary’s Gate.

Both The Galleon Steakhouse and The Spread Eagle will also be home to luxury rooms for residential stays.

Matthew explained how Chesterfield’s local business community has helped in the renovation of the pub: “Throughout my years of running businesses in Chesterfield, I’ve gained a fantastic network of local contacts, who have helped to get the pub back to where we wanted it to be.

“During my time running The Galleon, I’ve met plenty of plumbers, tilers, painters and decorators who are passionate about creating great venues in our town. I’d like to think those same people will return as customers to The Galleon and The Spread Eagle in the future!

“It’s important to support local. If you buy from a massive chain, the money isn’t going to come back – but if you keep things local and businesses in the area use each other, it benefits us all.”

Speaking on what people can expect at The Spread Eagle, Matthew continued: “This will have a true British pub feel with a modern twist on classic dishes. We’ve got a lovely outside area that is a bit of a sun trap, too. I love the history of this place. The alley, which runs down the side of the pub, features the old historic cobbles, which are absolutely stunning.

“I’m from Chesterfield and I think it is important that the town continues to receive investment. That includes support from local people. It’s vital we use our local pubs, bars and restaurants to keep them going and ensure the town grows as a place to visit.”

“We’ve already got a fantastic base of customers. Plus, between our two venues, we now have ten rooms in the centre of town, which we hope will bring more visitors to stay in the area and explore what we have to offer. The rooms are modern, and we’ve tried to make them feel like a home from home!”

Find out more about The Spread Eagle on Facebook.

Explore Chesterfield’s fabulous food and drink scene by checking out our 50 food and drink businesses to try in the local area. 

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

Iconic Chesterfield department store snapped up by developer

Nottingham-based ALB Group has acquired the former Marks and Spencer department store in one of Chesterfield town centre’s most prominent buildings.

The developer stepped in to make the deal for an undisclosed fee before the 68,000 sq ft premises, comprising two adjacent buildings, was due to be offered at auction, for a guide price of over £3m.

Marks and Spencer vacated the store in High Street, Chesterfield, over two years ago when it relocated to nearby Ravenside Retail Park.

The premises is distributed over five floors and occupies a prime location next door to Primark and opposite Chesterfield’s historic open air market, in Market Place, which has been undergoing a major refurbishment.

ALB Group is currently in advanced negotiations with a major retailer interested in taking up part of the ground floor of the building. The firm is seeking additional tenants for the remaining ground floor commercial space.

The upper floors are expected to be either residential, office space or commercial use pending further consultations with ALB’s architect John Morgan, of Nottingham-based architect Leonard Design.

Arran Bailey, managing director of ALB Group, said: “We’re delighted to have secured the deal to purchase this magnificent property.”

Oliver Marshall, director of FHP Property Consultants, which is marketing the building on behalf of ALB Group, said: “While we are close to securing a major tenant for part of the ground floor of the building, we are seeking additional businesses to take up the remaining space.

“There will be up to 10,000 square feet available, which could be let to a single tenant or carved up as appropriate to sizes ranging from around 3,000 square feet. All interest will be considered, whether it’s from retail businesses, leisure, cafés or restaurants.”

ALB Group, which has gained a reputation over the past few years for regenerating buildings in town and city centres across the UK, recently transformed another large property in Chesterfield town centre just a stone’s throw from the M&S building.

Last year, the developer launched 55 high-spec apartments, built on the upper floors of Burlington House, in Burlington Street, replacing the once run-down vacant office space.

ALB Group has become known for town centre revitalisation through a combination of cheaper, more flexible lease contracts with businesses and bringing the vacant upper storeys of commercial buildings back into use, largely through the creation of much-needed residential units.

The company has transformed high streets in places including Ipswich, Stoke-on-Trent, Derby, Huddersfield and Birkenhead, delivering significantly increased footfall in each of those areas.

ALB Group is known for its regeneration of the Bridlesmith Gate area of Nottingham, where it purchased 14 buildings and has successfully given the once-struggling city centre location a vibe that has been likened to London’s trendy Carnaby Street.

Arran said: “Chesterfield is definitely on the up. Like all town and city centres it has suffered from the increase in online shopping, the cost-of-living crisis and the relocation of larger chains to out-of-town retail parks.

“But the mood is shifting in a positive direction, and we hope to be able to provide a catalyst to that now that we have acquired one of the town’s best-located and most historic buildings.

“We can guarantee that we will help to breathe new life into this area, just like we did with Burlington House.”

Businesses interested in letting the available space on the ground floor of the building can contact Oliver Marshall on 07887 787885 or email oliver@fhp.co.uk

FHP Property Consultants supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Chesterfield’s Central Technology expands with latest acquisition

Chesterfield’s Central Technology has announced the acquisition of yoko:10, marking a significant milestone in the growth and evolution of the group.

This strategic move strengthens its position as a leading provider of consultative technological and business solutions and underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional service to our clients.

Over the past eight years, yoko:10 has built a strong reputation for delivering Microsoft Consultancy services across the UK. Their expertise spans SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, Purview Data Governance & Data Security, Copilot, Intranets, Viva Engage and Power Platform, providing services for planning, deployment, governance, and adoption of Microsoft cloud technologies to help businesses optimise their digital workplace.

As part of this acquisition, yoko:10 will take office space in each of the Central Technology offices and will become the Microsoft Consultancy provider for the Central Technology Group. The legal aspects of the acquisition were expertly managed by fellow Chesterfield Champion organisation, BRM, setting the foundations for a smooth and efficient integration process.

Rob Longden, Managing Director at Central Technology, remarks: “yoko:10’s values and approach align seamlessly with ours, making this integration a natural step forward. If you’re curious, their name translates to ‘sharing best practice’, which reflects the yoko:10 approach to consultancy.

“The combined strength of yoko:10 and Central Technology will enable us to expand our consultative capabilities. Together, we are positioned to serve as a single point of contact for our clients’ technology needs, providing seamless and comprehensive solutions supported by our network of regional offices.”

CEO smiles to colleagues across table during meeting

This acquisition marks a significant step in Central Technology’s ongoing growth strategy and serves as a foundation for further business expansion. With yoko:10 now part of Central Technology Group, the business is well-equipped to meet evolving client needs and drive innovation in the technology sector. It reflects the long-term vision of building a strong organisation capable of adapting to any challenges and opportunities ahead.

Central Technology supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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RMS Locotec announces Chesterfield move, strengthening town’s rail sector

RMS Locotec, the industrial railway specialist, has consolidated its leasing and maintenance operations in Chesterfield – home to Europe’s largest cluster of rail related businesses.

The move brings together teams and assets from multiple locations into an existing transport and engineering facility less than 500 yards from the grave of George Stephenson, the father of industrial railways.

RMS Locotec has also appointed Lauren Parker to the new role of General Manager. Lauren, who joined RMS in 2010, will now be responsible for growing the business, strengthening relationships with existing customers and expanding into new markets.

RMS Locotec leases locomotives, provides rolling stock maintenance and engineering support, as well as infrastructure services to customers at depots, ports, terminals and quarries across Britain.

Lauren Parker, General Manager of RMS Locotec, said: “I’m really looking forward to deepening our relationships with existing RMS customers, so we can help meet both their current and future needs. I also want to expand the business by sharing our industrial railway expertise and capabilities with new clients.

“As we consolidate our business in Chesterfield, we will also be looking to play an active role in organisations that promote both our sector and the strategic value of industrial railways.”

RMS Locotec currently has 16 shunting locomotives on-lease with a variety of passenger and freight operators, as well as with customers in the logistics, shipping and aggregate sectors. The business also has a further six locomotives available for spot, temporary or long-term hire.

RMS Locotec infrastructure teams inspect and maintain track assets at more than eight locations across the UK.

Chesterfield is home to a skilled rail sector, and is investing in facilities to strengthen its local talent pool. This includes the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe), currently under development next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

Find out more about the benefits of locating your business here.

 

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The Chesterfield Children’s Festival returns for third year

The much-loved Chesterfield Children’s Festival is back for its third year, promising another unforgettable weekend of fun, creativity, and imagination.

The free event, organised by Junction Arts and funded by Arts Council England, will take place in Queen’s Park on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July, from 10am to 4pm each day.

Launched in 2023, the festival has quickly become a highlight of the summer holidays, welcoming over 12,000 families and engaging more than 8,000 children in a vibrant mix of live performances, workshops, and hands-on activities. This year, the festival promises even more excitement, with new acts and returning favourites for audiences of all ages.

One of this year’s highlights is ‘Story Chefs’ by Derby-based theatre company, Maison Foo. This immersive performance invites families on a magical, globe-trotting adventure where stories are brought to life through puppetry, music, and theatre.

Back by popular demand is Everybody Dance, a mass dance-a-long created by students from Spire Junior School in collaboration with professional dancers. Festivalgoers of all ages and abilities are invited to learn the moves and join in the fun.

Live music will also be featured throughout the weekend, with performances curated by The Noise Academy, an organisation that works with young people to unlock creativity and build confidence through music tech. Young performers will soundtrack the event and show off their DJing skills – they’ll also be beat-boxing workshops for anyone who wants to have a go.

There will be plenty more to enjoy too, including face painting, art workshops, circus skills and more—all completely free, with no booking required.

To ensure the festival is accessible to all, Junction Arts has partnered with RevoLOOtion, a mobile service providing accessible toilets and changing facilities. This service allows disabled children and adults to participate fully, comfortably, and with dignity.

Jemma Burton, Project Manager at Junction Arts, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing the Chesterfield Children’s Festival back for a third year, with more exciting activities and entertainment for local families. Each year, we aim to introduce something new that sparks creativity and joy, while keeping the favourites that our community loves. We’re especially excited about the return of ‘Everybody Dance’ – it’s going to be bigger and better this year!”

The full festival line-up will be announced in the coming weeks. For the latest updates, visit www.junctionarts.org or follow @junctionartsuk on social media.

Looking to make the most of your summer? Find out about some of the great activities and events taking place at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

Junction Arts supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Chesterfield entrepreneur embarks on new business challenge at 77

At 77 years old, a Chesterfield entrepreneur is proving age is but a number, embarking on a new non-profit business journey.

After a lifetime in Local Government and 17 years in retirement, Keith Wood has decided to “rise again from the ashes” as The Yorkshire Fenix, starting up a range of not-for-profit ventures on a business basis in our town.

Yorkshire Fenix Enterprises will specialise in several services, including customised work and leisure wear featuring unique designs, creative writing, public speaking and local venue brokering.

As a creative writer, Keith’s first local historical novel features Chesterfield in the mid-18th Century and is due for release in May. As if this is not enough to fill his time, Keith also works with Dr Elizabeth Rosario, GP and coach, who helps individuals do their best for ageing parents so that they can enjoy life again.

Keith’s philosophy is to embrace new technology whilst still retaining old-fashioned values of good service and value for money. All profits are set to be donated to local charities, which Keith is now inviting to become involved.

Speaking about his business journey so far in our town, Keith commented: “Networking has helped me greatly, and I think this is the way ahead, especially for start-up businesses. I have been helped and encouraged by Caroline Moore from Securit GB – The Speed Shop, a print company, who supply my customised clothing and business cards, operating out of The Glass Yard, Sheffield Road.

“I would also like to thank Ruth Postins, Façade Consultant in Modern Methods of Construction, Kerry Lancaster of Shine On Valeting Services and Patrick and Meg, the new owners of Ye Royal Oak who have helped in my literary ventures… The pub actually features in my novel!

“These people have all freely offered to help me set up my business, and I can’t thank them enough.”

Keith adds: “My adopted home town has a lot to offer, lots of historic buildings to discover, a fabulous library, good local leisure amenities like the Winding Wheel and friendly residents.

“It’s a traditional market town close to beautiful countryside in the middle of England with decent transport links and an ambitious business sector under the banner of Destination Chesterfield.”

Keith is currently constructing his website, queries can be directed to him via email: keith@yorkshirefenix.com.

Looking for support to get your business idea off the ground here in Chesterfield? Find out more about the support available here. 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

Entrepreneurship and high growth set to benefit from partnership between Chamber and University

East Midlands Chamber has entered an exclusive new strategic partnership with the University of Derby centred on entrepreneurship and high growth.

The collaboration will see the University, already a long-term strategic partner of the Chamber, work together on areas like decarbonisation, innovation, joint bidding for public sector business support and development of funded programmes for firms in Derby and Derbyshire.

The University of Derby is headline partner of Generation Next – the Chamber-powered network for inspiring and building the confidence and connections of young professionals and future leaders in the 18-35 age group.

East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles said: “Entrepreneurship and high growth go hand in hand, and as a region known for innovation, making and producing, it makes sense to turbocharge those strengths.

“Having been a strategic partner of the Chamber for some time, and as headline partner of Generation Next, I’m delighted to expand on this productive relationship. The University of Derby is well established for its leading research, its approach to decarbonisation and for being an advocate of business growth.

“I’m certain this new chapter of our collaboration will bring even greater benefit to Derby, Derbyshire and the wider East Midlands.”

The University of Derby Associate Provost of Industry Engagement Matt Snowden said: “We are proud to have a longstanding relationship with the Chamber and this new partnership is set to strengthen this even further.

“This relationship is incredibly valuable to the University, as it provides us with opportunities to connect with Chamber businesses and create avenues to employability for students through placements and internships. It also provides a platform for the University to work collaboratively in supporting the regional economy by exchanging skills, fostering innovation and providing essential business support.”

East Midlands Chamber and University of Derby support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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200th anniversary of Chesterfield’s iconic role in railway history set for grand celebration

Chesterfield’s pivotal role in the birth of the world’s railway system is set to be commemorated thanks to a grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Holy Trinity Church, the final resting place of George Stephenson, has been awarded £240,600 to launch the project that will honour the legacy of the ‘Father of Railways’ and explore the lasting impact of railway engineering in Chesterfield.

Made possible thanks to National Lottery players, the project comes at a time of renewed interest in railway history, with 2025 marking the 200th anniversary of the birth of the modern railway.

On 27 September 1825, George Stephenson’s steam-powered Locomotion No. 1 travelled 26 miles between Shildon, Darlington, and Stockton, carrying hundreds of passengers to great fanfare.

It set in motion a train of events that changed the world forever. Holy Trinity, which is situated on Newbold Road, has long been a site of interest for railway enthusiasts and local schools, but this initiative will significantly expand its role as a visitor destination and educational hub.

With additional funding support from EMR (£5,000), Cross Country Rail (£5,000), Raymond Ross Fund (£25,000) Graysons Solicitors (£1,000) and Holy Trinity Church itself (£16,000), the project will enhance visitor facilities, create new interpretation materials, and develop engaging activities for schools, families, and the wider community.

The initiative will explore not only Stephenson’s life and engineering achievements but also the wider industrial history of Chesterfield. It will shed light on the Victorian-era expansion of the town, the development of the Clay Cross Company, and the town’s role in railway and coal mining history. The project will also commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Miners’ Strike, reflecting on the changes in industry that shaped the region.

Holy Trinity spring

Plans include:

  • The transformation of Holy Trinity’s community rooms into a dedicated visitor facility.
  • The creation of new interpretation materials highlighting Stephenson’s influence on Chesterfield and railway engineering.
  • A series of public events and celebrations marking the railway’s 200th anniversary.
  • Educational and engagement activities for schools and visitors, connecting communities with their industrial heritage.
  • Volunteer and learning opportunities to equip people with heritage and research skills.
  • A focus on sustainable transport and the future of railway engineering, ensuring the project connects the past with the present and future.

Reverend Jilly Hancock of Holy Trinity Church said: “We are delighted to have received this generous support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players and our funding partners, we can now ensure that George Stephenson’s story and Chesterfield’s rich railway heritage are celebrated and shared with future generations.”

Find out more about events and activities taking place across Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

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East Midlands Mayor calls on partners to make the case for regional investment

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, is beginning the countdown to the East Midlands taking centre stage at the UK’s biggest development showcase next month.

Mayor Claire will lead partners from across the East Midlands at the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) taking place in Leeds over the three days of 20-22 May, with 15,000 national and international investors and developers expected to attend.

At a dedicated launch event in Nottingham on 7 May, the Mayor will outline her vision and ambition for the East Midlands at UKREiiF and bring partners, businesses and stakeholders together ahead of the three day event later that month.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “UKREiiF is a marketplace for attracting investment into our region. Deals made there can lead to the development of commercial spaces, housing, and infrastructure – creating jobs during construction and beyond.

“This is the biggest opportunity our region has had, since we were created, to showcase the regeneration opportunities our region has to offer. I need businesses, developers and investors in the region to join me in making that case. Doing so together, means we can accelerate plans to revitalise our town centres, brownfield sites, or underused assets – turning them into places people want to live, work and visit.”

Alongside Mayor Claire who will lead the launch event, keynote speakers are Amy Harhoff, CEO, East Midlands Combined County Authority and Matt Christie, Director of External Relations and Content, UKREiiF.

The East Midlands will be strongly represented at UKREiiF by the senior leadership teams at East Midlands Combined County Authority, the East Midlands Freeport, Nottingham City Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council, Derbyshire County Council, Marketing Derby, Invest in Nottingham, Destination Chesterfield and Invest in Derbyshire.

Find out more about the East Midlands at UKREiiF

To register your interest in attending the launch event on 7 May, 6-8pm in Nottingham, please contact: communications@eastmidsdevo.org.uk

Perfectly located in the centre of the UK, Chesterfield is home to more than 3,000 businesses which benefit from the town’s excellent connectivity. For more information about locating your organisation in our town, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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Chesterfield Champions showcase success ahead of World Creativity and Innovation Day

With World Creativity and Innovation Day taking place on Monday 21st April 2025, organisations across Chesterfield are showcasing how local talent, collaboration, and forward-thinking ideas are driving change in the town—and beyond.

From cutting-edge software development to hands-on education projects, Chesterfield businesses and educators are working together to unlock creative potential and inspire the next generation.

Find out more about how creative and innovative busninesses in our network of Chesterfield Champions are continuing to drive forward our local economy.

University of Derby and Rolls-Royce pioneer future-focused education

Pictures by Beth Walsh Photography- University of Derby assignment/ December 2021

 

In a major step forward for business education, the University of Derby has announced a new accelerated two-year degree in partnership with Rolls-Royce. The BSc (Hons) International Business and AI will launch in September 2025 and is the first of its kind in the UK—aimed at preparing students for careers in the rapidly evolving landscape of international business and artificial intelligence.

Dr Mustabsar Awais, Course Leader at the University of Derby, explained: “As artificial intelligence reshapes industries and disrupts traditional business models, there is a need for graduates with the skills and ambition to design the world of the future.

“This exciting, accelerated learning degree will equip students with the skills to apply advanced technological solutions to today’s business problems, drive forward innovation and gain valuable experience for their CVs. We are delighted to be working with world-leading brand Rolls-Royce to power the next generation and future workforce.”

Students will develop technical skills in areas like big data, business analytics and global economics, with real-world projects and immersive activities delivered in partnership with Rolls-Royce.

Dr Nicola Lynch, Head of Derby Business School, added: “We are delighted to be further strengthening our partnership with Rolls-Royce, working collaboratively to understand what our country and world needs to grow, and to develop the practical skills and future talent to help us meet those requirements.

“Industry engagement is critical to the University of Derby, providing solutions to social and industrial challenges by delivering academic expertise, innovation and knowledge.

“We believe in the transformational power of education and our mission is to develop a pipeline of student and graduate talent with the skills to improve business services and communities all around the world.

“We are delighted to be partnering on such a unique and exciting programme, which we hope will provide students with a range of practical business and thought leadership skills, making them well placed for a range of high-quality graduate roles.”

This new course complements the University’s existing relationship with Rolls-Royce, including their joint work on the Nuclear Skills Academy, and will be housed in the state-of-the-art Cavendish Building—set to open in 2025 in Derby city centre.

Creativity through the lens: Supporting the next generation of photographers

 

Mike Jones Photography was proud to support a recent photography project in partnership with Chesterfield College, aimed at capturing the commercial architectural landscape of Chesterfield through the creative lens of local students.

“This project was a fantastic opportunity to inspire and mentor the next generation of photographers,” said Mike Jones, Founder of Mike Jones Photography. “It combined our passion for architecture with a real desire to give students a platform to explore professional photography in a meaningful and practical way.”

The initiative invited students to document a wide range of commercial buildings—from offices and shops to public and hospitality spaces—encouraging them to consider lighting, composition, and storytelling through imagery. Mike Jones Photography provided guidance and feedback throughout the project.

“It was incredibly rewarding to see how engaged and enthusiastic the students were,” Mike continued. “Watching their skills grow, and their creative confidence develop, reminded us why partnerships like this matter.”

As a proud Chesterfield Champion, Mike Jones Photography is committed to building stronger links between education and local business.

“These collaborations are essential—not only for developing local talent but for supporting the future of our local economy. When students can connect with industry professionals, they gain the experience and insight they need to succeed, and that has long-term benefits for everyone in the community.”

Innovation in action: Weightron leads the way in cloud technology

 

Local manufacturer, Weightron Bilanciai has unveiled its game-changing cloud software suite CENTRIXS, following a three-year R&D journey led by developers Connor and Callum.

The platform offers real-time data control and site automation for weighing solutions across global markets, marking a bold leap from traditional on-premises systems.

Connor and Callum led by Weightron’s Project and Innovations Director Darren Jones spent countless hours brainstorming and conceptualising their ideas.

Weightron unveiled their IWM (Itemised Waste Management) version to the world several months ago, working alongside a few chosen clients to Beta test the application and refining it where necessary whist garnering attention and praise from early adopters. Their innovative solution is quickly gaining traction, attracting businesses seeking reliable, secure, and efficient cloud software to control weighing applications and site automation.

As their user base grows, Weightron continues to improve and expand their software, with version two already under discussion. They are listening to user feedback, planning to introduce further new features and enhancements to meet the markets evolving needs.

Photography as a creative outlet: SA Photography launches school workshops

Award-winning travel photographer Scott Antcliffe of SA Photography has launched an exciting initiative bringing photography workshops to schools across the region.

Combining his background as a Specialist Special Needs Teacher with an acclaimed photography career, Scott’s workshops are designed to boost confidence, creativity, and self-expression in young people.

“Too often, creative children don’t have the right outlet to express themselves,” says Scott. “I want to create opportunities for young people to discover photography as a powerful form of self-expression and a potential career path. I found my dream job in my early-thirties-I want to show students that a creative future is possible with the right support and inspiration.”

Scott’s credentials in the photography world are remarkable. Recently named Wanderlust Magazine’s Travel Photographer of the Year, his work has been featured in The Times, The Telegraph, The Metro, New York Times, CNN Travel, and numerous other publications. He regularly contributes articles to the Nikon website and national photography magazines, and delivers talks and workshops at events, conventions, and camera clubs throughout the UK.

His photography career has taken him around the world, working with international tourism boards and capturing performances by global artists including Ed Sheeran, Calum Scott, Bryan Adams, Tom Grennan, Michael Bublé, and Paloma Faith.

“I’ve tested the water with workshops in Sheffield and Chesterfield to both primary and secondary schools. Feedback from both staff and children have been incredibly positive. I look forward to working with more schools in the coming months,” Scott added.

Through this new initiative, Scott hopes to inspire the next generation of creatives by sharing both his technical expertise and his journey from the classroom to the world stage. The workshops are tailored to different age groups and abilities, with a focus on accessibility, confidence-building, and nurturing a lifelong love of creativity.

Driving innovation on the road: iTrack reaches new milestones

Based at The Glass Yard on Whittington Moor, iTrack Ltd. has rapidly become a standout success in the field of vehicle and asset tracking, recently surpassing 5,000 users on its iTrack Live software.

Managing Director Will Sissons explained: “Surpassing 5,000 users is a testament to the trust individuals and businesses have placed in us.” It’s an exciting time here at iTrack and I couldn’t be prouder of the incredible progress we’ve made over the last few years since moving into the Glass Yard on Whittington Moor in 2022.

“Surpassing 5,000 users on our iTrack Live tracking software is a testament to the trust individuals and businesses have placed in us to keep their fleets and assets safe and monitored in real-time. We’ve also processed over 25,000 orders and earned an ‘Excellent’ Trust Pilot rating, which speaks volumes about the hard work, customer service and dedication of our team.

The business has also developed a strong partnership with national retailer, Halfords, further solidifying the reputation gained by iTrack in the fleet telematics industry.

Will continued: “It’s a privilege to supply the UK’s largest motoring accessory retailer with our range of vehicle and asset tracking products which allows us to bring our innovative products to even more customers.

“It’s also fantastic to work with many local business’ too, such as Lockwood Haulage in Belper where we’ve fitted over 200 tracking devices to their HGV trailer fleet. They’ve seen significant savings compared to their previous provider while benefiting from the high-quality service we offer!

Looking ahead, the business is about to launch a state-of-the-art dash cam, featuring both front & rear cameras and a large touch screen for an intuitive user-friendly experience. This new product will provide individuals and companies with peace of mind, ensuring protection in the unfortunate event of non-fault road accidents.

Will concluded: “Exciting times are ahead, and we’re just getting started!”

The organisations featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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