Vicar Lane Shopping Centre Manager, Shaun Brown won a highly commended award for ‘Manager of the Year’ at the Sceptre Awards in London.
The Sceptre Awards is a leading industry event, recognising talent and excellence in the retail sector across the UK.
Shaun was awarded for his exceptional performance and professionalism in getting the centre back on track post-COVID whilst forging a new direction for the scheme as it enters a new phase in its growth.
His energies have been focused on the implementation of new car parking facilities and training his award-winning security team. He has also been imperative in supporting the independent businesses at Vicar Lane and strives to look at ways for the retailers to boost their sales.
The recent installation of the giant outdoor screen has resulted in a free prominent promotional space for tenants.
As a military veteran, he supports key community initiatives such as the STAND TO project which extends help to the families and loved ones of the ex-force’s personnel.
He strives to make the shopping centre a recognised safe space and bringing a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to those adjusting to civilian life and working through their own complex issues.
Shaun commented: “I was delighted to be awarded highly commended for Manager of the Year. I feel proud of this recognition and will continue to focus my efforts on supporting all the retailers at the centre and providing a safe and inclusive place for the community.”
Chesterfield has everything you need for the perfect Christmas. Find out more about the best local gifts, food and drink, events and activities taking place in the town by visiting our Christmas in Chesterfield page.
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.
Several businesses, charities and community organisations in Chesterfield are continuing to launch new initiatives, aimed at supporting people across the area.
The town’s network of Chesterfield Champions is continuing to help raise the profile of our area and strengthen links, by hosting charity events, launching new support groups and more.
Find out more about some of the latest news from across our community in our latest roundup.
Spireites launch new LGBTQ+ supporters group
Chesterfield Football Club is now working alongside a new supporters group, aimed at improving the matchday experience for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
The group was formed by supporters, Darren Yates and Ellie Yates, with the aim of creating a safe space and ensuring everyone feels welcome at the SMH Group Stadium.
Darren explained: “Our main aim is to be that safe space for LGBTQ+ supporters, who don’t want to come to the game on their own.
“It is also to be a critical friend of the club to help them reach into the community more.
“A group like this can really help fans feel welcome at games, and not have to worry about feeling alone or unwelcome.
“Everyone at the club has been brilliant and totally supportive. We were at Chesterfield Pride and the response was really good. People were saying that they were really happy to see the group being formed.”
Outlining plans for the future, Ellie said: “We’re hoping that now we’ve started getting a few members on board, we can start doing some meet-ups and talk to our members to see what they want to get out of the group as well.
“We’ve joined a regional alliance with some LGBTQ+ supporters’ groups. At the moment, we’re just letting people know we’re there and once we’ve got more members, we’ll look at pre-match meet-ups to encourage fans who might not feel safe enough going to games.”
Vicar Lane to support children’s charities with One Great Day event
Vicar Lane Shopping Centre will once again be supporting the UK-wide annual charity day ‘One Great Day’ on Saturday 2nd September.
One Great Day is a series of family and community charity events being held throughout the country to raise money for Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) and another local charity close to the heart of each community. This year Vicar Lane is proud to be sharing donations with GOSH and Sheffield Children’s Hospital, The Children’s Hospital Charity.
The event includes a range of free outdoor activities, a tombola and face painting for the youngsters.
From 10am – 3pm, mini aspiring footballers will have a chance to meet Chester the field mouse for a fun shoot-out challenge. For a minimum donation of £1, visitors can show off their skills to score against Chesterfield FC’s cheeky mascot.
To help raise as much money as possible the centre will be running a raffle draw – including a grand prize of 4 tickets to see Chesterfield Football Club play at home.
Brandon Howard, Centre Administrator 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. With the help of Chester the field mouse and Theo the bear, we hope to bring a smile and beat the amount raised last year.
Charity skydive supports children with additional needs in Chesterfield
A charity skydive has recently took place to raise funds for Fairplay, a charity which supports young people with additional needs in our area.
Rachel Middleton took the leap, and has so far raised more than £1,000 for her efforts. Rachel commented: “I’ve worked for Fairplay for over two years now and I want to support them to do more great work!
“We support families, child and young adults with disabilities and promote independent living skills in SCaRT, Moving Forward and Enterprise. We have lots of groups running including our gorgeous cafe, craft and gardening groups. Along with the new addition of our shop which the young people make things to sell and will be helping to run themselves!”
Chesterfield Royal Hospital awarded ‘Trailblazer’ status from Race Equality Matters
Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has been awarded the prestigious Trailblazer status from Race Equality Matters, a not-for-profit organisation seeking to improve racial equality.
Trailblazers are organisations that are successfully taking action and making an impact on race inequality and Chesterfield was selected for work on The Big Promise solution, where people and organisations make a public commitment to create meaningful and positive change.
Race Equality Matters Trailblazer status is determined by an independent panel of experts – all with lived experience. It aims to identify meaningful impact, keep momentum going, inspire others and evidence an organisations commitment to tackling race inequality.
Becoming a Trailblazer means that the work Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (CRH) has done to implement The Big Promise has resulted in significant change and made an impact across the breadth of the entire organisation. This is a step that contributes to their aim to successfully address racial inequality and become a more diverse, inclusive and equal organisation.
Hailey Pottinger, Co-Chair of the Race Equality and Cultural Inclusion Network at Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said: “The Big Promise helped us to create an inclusive environment where everyone could get involved and talk to us about Race Equality. By giving the Big Promise a central focus, especially as part of Race Equality Week, we created a positive statement and encouraged conversations with colleagues and members of the public. The aim was to increase the understanding that race equality is everyone’s business and secure buy-in and a sense of personal responsibility.
“At Chesterfield, a lot of work is being done to raise awareness of anti-racism (and how that is different to simply not being racist). This work is laying the foundations for conversations around racism and feeding into the creation of our Anti-Racism Strategy. There was a big focus on as part of Race Equality Week.
Kevin Sargen, Medical Director and Race Equality Network Exec Sponsor, at Chesterfield Royal NHS Foundation Trust said: “We are pleased to be highlighted as trailblazers; however, we recognise that this is an ongoing process and there is a lot more we all need to do as an organisation and as individuals to ensure that that we not only highlight this agenda but actively drive action and change. As a Board of Directors, we have made a commitment to tackling race inequality and to be accountable for taking actions. It is something that is very important to all of us and to our colleagues across the organisation.”
BHP hosts work experience academy to provide a taste of the workplace for young people
BHP offices at Chesterfield Waterside. Image supplied by Derbyshire Economic Partnership
Chesterfield accountancy firm, BHP has recently supported a number of young people by providing a work experience programme this summer.
The firm launched its first ever work experience academy, which the firm expained on its Linkedin page was well recieved by those who took part. The company said: “Our participants really enjoyed the practical, structured programme and many of them said they’ve been inspired to pursue a career in finance following their time with us, which is so great to hear!
“We’re really looking forward to meeting and getting to know our new Graduate and Non-Graduate trainees, who will be joining us very soon.”
Chesterfield FC, Vicar Lane, Fairplay, Chesterfield Royal Hospital and BHP support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Visitors can choose from Giant Chess, Connect Four or Table Tennis for a competitive game in the sunshine, before stopping for a bite & relaxing on a deck chair – and that’s not all.
Throughout July and August, alongside events happening around the town centre – they will be hosting a series of free events for all the family to enjoy.
Until Sunday 16th July, Vicar Lane will be serving the best of Wimbledon action on the big screen, whilst visitors can pull up a deck chair in St James’ Square. Spectators will be able to purchase cream teas from The Vintage Tea Rooms and jugs of Pimm’s from Pizza Pi too.
The centre is providing a special treat on Sunday 16th July for National Ice Cream Day – the first 100 customers who visit Vicar Lane’s Ice Cream Van will be able to pick up a free ice cream.
Ahead of the region’s biggest LGBTQ celebration – Chesterfield Pride – taking place on Sunday 23rd July, visitors are being welcomed to Vicar Lane the day before for vibrant entertainment, roaming around the centre as you shop.
On Saturday 22nd July, from 11am – 4pm, shoppers and visitors can revel with flamboyant ribbon dancers and snap a selfie with sparkling stilt walkers, whilst youngsters can have their face painted and get glitter tattoos throughout the day.
Vicar Lane is also excited to welcome the social media ‘Balloon Globe’ sensation to St James’s Square for kids and grown-ups to experience a bubble full of fun.
On Tuesday 25th July, the popular Medieval-themed fun day makes a return to Chesterfield and Vicar Lane will be hosting live musicians throughout the day as an extra treat for visitors to enjoy.
In August, there’ll be Summer fun days to get involved with, from Crazy Golf to roaming performers complete with singing and dancing.
Sarah Bowler, Tenant and Community Liaison Manager said: We are delighted to continue our events schedule into July and August for families to enjoy over the summer holidays. With Chesterfield Pride and the historic Medieval Market happening so close by – it is set to be a great atmosphere and we are excited to join in the fun and offer a place to come and shop, relax, enjoy and dine out!
Find out more about the wide range of summer events and activities taking place across Chesterfield this summer at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/
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.
Vicar Lane is inviting families to shop, relax, explore, dine and enjoy with all they have to offer this Summer.
Visitors can choose from Giant Chess, Connect Four or Table Tennis for a competitive game in the sunshine, before stopping for a bite & relaxing on a deck chair.
Throughout June, July, and August, as part of a wider programme of events happening around the town – the centre will be hosting a series of free events for all the family to enjoy, starting with their ‘Watch Glastonbury Live’ event on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th June.
Don’t miss out on the action (or the crowds) as Vicar Lane show the biggest headline acts from the Glastonbury on their big outdoor screen in St James Square.
From 2pm, visitors can grab a headline cocktail from Chandler’s pop-up bar and enjoy a signature woodfired pizza from Pizza Pi throughout the day. The weekend is set to be lively with themed activity, glitter face painting and sparkling entertainment roaming around the shopping centre too.
Whilst you’re in town, why not check out the Peddler Market? Taking over New Square at Chesterfield Market, Peddler Events will be bringing some of the best street food the UK has to offer, alongside great craft drinks, live music and much more.
On the same weekend, Unhampered Live 2023 will also be hosting pop up activities in the town including free live music and workshops.
From 3rd – 16th July, Vicar Lane will be serving the best of Wimbledon action on the big screen. Spectators won’t be far from a brilliantly British treat either as Vintage Tearooms serve their vintage cream teas to dine in or takeaway for £9.50 and Pizza Pi offer Jugs of Pimms to enjoy in the sunshine!
July will also see Vicar Lane celebrate Chesterfield Pride and there’ll be Summer fun days to get involved in on selected Saturdays in August!
Sarah Bowler, Tenant and Community Liaison Manager said: “We are very much looking forward to welcoming new and existing visitors to Vicar Lane for our Glastonbury Event in June.
“With so much going on around town on the last weekend in June, it is set to be a great atmosphere and we are excited to join in the fun and offer a place to come and shop, relax, enjoy, and dine out! There’ll be lots of free entertainment and activities to get involved with.”
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.
A toy shop, which started as a market stall in Dronfield has now opened a brand-new independent store at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre in Chesterfield.
The Little Ark was founded in 2021 by Liz Telford-Sides, who whilst was on maternity leave with her second child, was shocked by the amount of plastic used to manufacture and package toys.
So, Liz began investigating eco-friendly alternatives and started sourcing toys from beautiful brands that were sustainable with no plastic packaging. Since launching, The Little Ark has continued to expand its ranges, trading from Chesterfield Market Hall before the move to Vicar Lane.
Liz commented: “We are incredibly excited to move to Vicar Lane Shopping Centre. The mix of independent shops alongside big high street brands such as H&M and New Look is great and we are so proud to be part of this.
“There are two main reasons we love being in Chesterfield; one is our customers and the other is the local independent businesses. We have received wonderful support from both our customers and the other indie businesses.
“People are now wanting to see the products they are purchasing, and I would definitely say I’m one of those people. When people see our products in-person, they often comment on the quality of the items and the longevity they can get out of them. This is transferable across independent businesses; they are providing quality items and provide an exceptional level of service that you just can’t get online.
“Businesses such as ours are willing to take a risk on providing Chesterfield with something it doesn’t have, but it will only be successful if people shop with us. Independent businesses can often be hidden away from the main thoroughfares but if people look that little bit harder they will find some absolute hidden gems.”
Liz also added that the success of the business wouldn’t have been possible without the support of her father, Gary Telford, who helps to run the shop on a daily basis.
Shaun Brown, Centre Manager at Vicar Lane said: “We’re thrilled to be able to support yet another local business in the heart of Chesterfield, especially one with such sustainable values. We’re very excited to see the range of toys and baby products on offer at The Little Ark.’’
Chesterfield Borough Council offers a free, efficient service to help you find the perfect premises for your business. If you’re looking for retail space in the town, find out more about the range of available commercial property here.
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.
A number of Chesterfield businesses have been showing their support for community initiatives in the town.
From supporting charities to giving up their time to help those in need, the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions regularly go above and beyond to support worthy causes locally.
Find out about how organisations are helping to support people in our local area below:
Woodall Homes Names its Charity of The Year
Local housebuilder Woodall Homes has named Pathways of Chesterfield as its chosen charity for the next 12 months.
Pathways of Chesterfield, located in Saltergate, is a service offering support to the homeless and those at risk of homelessness. Covering Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire and Bolsover, the charity offers a range of services including housing support, tenancy support, drop-in sessions and much more.
Helen Day, HR manager at Woodall Homes said: “We are very proud to be supporting Pathways of Chesterfield for the next year. Earlier this month, our team held the first fundraising activity in support of Pathways, raising over £100 through an in-office coffee morning.
“As a housebuilder, we are very conscious of the issues surrounding housing in the local community and we feel as though it is our responsibility to give back in any way we can to the fantastic services that are supporting some the most vulnerable people across Chesterfield and beyond.
“We can’t wait to get started planning our next fundraising event, which will hopefully raise even more for this fantastic cause.”
Woodall Homes is currently working on three developments within Chesterfield, offering sustainable bungalows, ideal first-time properties and family homes.
For more information on Woodall Homes and their work within North Derbyshire, visit their website at https://www.woodallhomes.co.uk/
Vicar Lane puts a smile of shoppers faces for ‘Random Acts of Kindness Day’
Vicar Lane Shopping Centre celebrated Random Acts of Kindness Day on Friday 17th February. Shoppers were surprised, with the help of the onsite centre team, who handed out FREE goody bags.
In the goody bags, shoppers were delighted to find gift cards ranging from £5 – £15 from stores including; H&M, River Island, Bon Marche, JD, The Works, Waterstones, New Look, Holland & Barrett, Deichmann, Yours Clothing, Iceland, F Hinds, CEX and Superdrug. Vicar Lane’s independent businesses also participated with shoppers receiving vouchers for Vintage Tea Rooms, Ministry of Design, Clarissa’s Interiors and Shop Indie.
Other goodies came in the form of sweet treats! A favourite from the day were beautiful handmade cupcakes, individually boxed and topped with a positive message to perk up shoppers’ moods as they went about their shopping day. This seemed to have gone down a storm with many people who visited (and also from those who didn’t), turning to social media to applaud Vicar Lane on their efforts to lift the mood.
Sarah Bowler, Tenant & Community Liaison Manager at Vicar Lane says, “With the continued coverage on the economic situation and a constant need for us to find ways to acknowledge and be kind to one another, it seemed ever more fitting that we put a smile on the face our shoppers this Random Acts of Kindness Day”.
Whittam Cox Architects supports ‘sleep out’ for the homeless
Team members from Chesterfield’s Whittam Cox Architects took part in LandAid’s Sleep Out 2023, raising money to help support young people who are homeless.
LandAid brings the property industry together to support charities delivering life-changing services for young people who are or have been homeless, or who are at risk of homelessness in the future.
City Couriers Direct to host black tie dinner in Chesterfield for brain tumour research
A special dinner is being hosted by Chesterfield’s City Couriers Direct to raise awareness and funds for Brain Tumour Research on 20th May 2023.
The event, taking place at the Technique Stadium will bring together local people and businesses to highlight the funding required to help tackle the illness.
It will further support the wide range of initiatives taking place to raise funds for the charity, such as the landmark ‘Tour De Football’ bike ride, which will see riders travel the length of the country visiting each of the 20 Premier League football grounds.
Darryl Claypole, Managing Director of City Couriers Direct has joined together with a number of other charitable organisations including the Dellaglio Foundation, Police Benevolent Fund, and Mango Football to give an opportunity for other charities to join Brain Tumour Research in the challenge.
Woodall Homes, Vicar Lane, Whittam Cox and City Couriers Direct support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Vicar Lane Shopping Centre will be undergoing an upgrade to the car park and general parking facilities in the coming weeks.
YourParkingSpace has been chosen as a partner to bring the parking facilities into the digital-era and streamline shoppers’ parking experience from 11th January.
Shoppers will see improvements to the car park access as entry/exit will be controlled by a new Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system. In addition, there will be a number of ways to pay either on site at a Payment Kiosk where cash and card is accepted, or digitally with ‘Pay by Mobile’ or ‘Express Checkout’ using the relevant QR codes that can be found on site.
Frequent visitors to Vicar Lane will also have the option to Pre-Book a space or set up AutoPay.
YourParkingSpace offers 24/7 customer service support and a free app to download for Android and IOS users.
Vicar Lane’s multistorey car park provides 400 spaces including 18 disabled spaces and 12 parent and child parking spaces.
Shaun Brown from Vicar Lane said: “We are delighted to be working with YourParkingSpace to upgrade and modernise our car park for visitors of Vicar Lane. We know this investment will enhance our shoppers experience giving choice and flexibility to everyone’s busy day to day activities.’’
Based in the heart of Chesterfield, Vicar Lane Shopping Centre is home to a range of popular high-street retailers and a mix of unique independent stores. Shoppers of all ages will find they can shop for products from clothing, mobile phones and cosmetics to greetings cards and household items with lots of friendly, attentive staff ready to help.
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.
Businesses across Chesterfield have shared more festive joy in the run-up to Christmas.
From fabulous charity efforts to hosting a Santa’s grotto for our four-legged friends, here’s a taste of what our business community has been up to this December.
Find out more about some of the great festive initiatives carried out by our network of Chesterfield Champions here.
Banner Jones Solicitors donates to local foodbank
The staff at Chesterfield law firm Banner Jones have come together to collect their largest ever donation for the local foodbank, Gussie’s Kitchen – including toys, toiletries and tasty treats.
Set up in April 2016 and based in St Augustine’s Church in Chesterfield, Gussie’s aims to provide a friendly social space for communities to come together, meet new people and enjoy a tasty, low cost meal made using surplus food distributed by FareShare.
Due to demand within the community Gussie’s have expanded their services to now also act as a foodbank as well as offering seasonal clothing.
The supplies donated by Banner Jones will be handed out to members of the local community using the service this Christmas.
Ann-Marie Lowe, Banner Jones’ marketing manager, said: “Christmas is a wonderful time to get together and spend quality time with families and friends, but for many people it can be an extremely difficult time of year. Especially for those who are struggling financially.
“We are delighted to have collected so many items, and to have been able to support those who are less fortunate this festive season. We hope the gifts go some way to putting a smile on someone’s face this Christmas.”
Redbrik continues to support community with charitable donations
The Redbrik Foundation has recently donated over £3500 to organisations across Sheffield and Chesterfield.
Established in 2020, the Foundation supports several charitable organisations each year, primarily seeking to enhance the lives of children and young people, the elderly or vulnerable and those with disabilities.
The latest funds were presented to three organisations; Ashgate Hospice received a donation of £1368, £1000 was donated to The Sheffield Children’s Hospital snowflake appeal and the Foundation granted £1500 to Whirlow Hall Farm.
Funds raised by Redbrik colleagues at the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k in October were donated exclusively to Ashgate Hospice in memory of colleague Kirstie Snape, as per the wishes of Kirstie’s family. In March 2021, Kirstie was sadly diagnosed with cancer, and after a brave fight with many highs and lows, she passed away in September this year.
The Sheffield Children’s Hospital snowflake appeal will contribute to building a helipad at the hospital to save vital minutes when every second counts for patients. Whirlow Hall Farm’s grant will provide alternative education programmes for vulnerable children and young people who cannot attend mainstream education due to a variety of medical needs, mental health issues and learning disabilities.
David Cooper, Redbrik Director and Trustee of the Redbrik Foundation, said: “We are delighted to provide support to all three incredible local charities, and we know first-hand the difference these donations will make in helping the organisations continue their work for the local community.
I am proud of each and every one of our Redbrik team who took part in the 10k to raise money for Ashgate Hospice in Kirstie’s memory, and I commend their dedication to fundraising during such a difficult time.”
The Redbrik Foundation has more to offer and would love to help fund more local charities. If your charity is interested in support from The Redbrik Foundation, contact David Cooper by email on david.cooper@redbrik.co.uk.
Vicar Lane Takes part in ‘Let’s Can Hunger’ campaign
To support Chesterfield Foodbank, Vicar Lane took part in a LET’S CAN HUNGER campaign to collect donations of essential supplies, for families and those most in need within the community this Christmas.
Having already run two very successful collections this year for the people of Ukraine, this was another opportunity for the local people of Chesterfield to give what they can, to support a charity that relies heavily on what they receive by the community.
Brandon Howard, Centre Administrator, Vicar Lane said, “We are always blown away by the generosity of our local community, so we anticipate this to be a successful collection to support the work that Chesterfield Foodbank do.”
Paperclip supports Christmas lunch for the disadvantaged
Paperclip is supporting a Christmas Day lunch for local people in need of a hot meal, some company, or assistance with mental health or substance abuse.
The businesses is helping out by providing and servicing the telephone hotline, and by volunteering on the day.
Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care hosts Santa’s Grotto for dogs
It would be unfair to leave our precious pooches out of the festive celebrations, wouldn’t it?!
Local Doggy Day Care business, Rose Cottage have ensured dog owners can get their pets into the spirit by hosting a Santa’s Grotto, between 12th-16th December.
Aptly named, SantaPAWS enabled owners to compete for the prize of ‘best dressed’ dog. Rossi the boxer dog (pictured) came out on top with his cute reindeer antlers and Christmas jumper!
Rossi and his owner took home a hamper box worth £50 in dog treats.. Someone is going to have a very merry Christmas indeed!
Banner Jones Solicitors, Redbrik, Rose Cottage, Vicar Lane and Paperclip support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Families can now enjoy a free, interactive experience at Santa’s Workshop at Vicar Lane shopping centre, where little ones can meet the elves before writing their letter to Santa.
Children and adults can share the moment together as their wish list gets posted in the magical post box and travels right before their eyes, to the North Pole.
Families wishing to head further into the Grotto, can then take an enchanted trip through a winter wonderland. At the end of the winding pathway, they will be greeted by Santa in his cosy grotto, surrounded by all of the toys for the good girls and boys.
Tickets to visit Santa’s Grotto are £8.50 each and every child will receive a gift, an ‘official good list’ certificate and reindeer food.
Due to its previous success, Vicar Lane also offer an Autism Friendly Santa Experience (on selected dates and times) which support children with autism and sensory conditions to enjoy all of the Christmas magic in a more calming and relaxed environment. These sessions must be booked in advance. For more information on how to book, visit Vicar Lane Shopping Centre.
Don’t miss out on a very special appearance from Snowy the Polar bear, on Saturday 3rd December. For one day only you can get up close with Snowy as he roams around the centre.
In addition, there is a whole host of fun in the run up to the big day.
For something creative, Vicar Lane is hosting a number of Workshops in conjunction with Thanks a Bunch, The Works & Junction Arts. Gather with friends and family for a something local and festive to do this season.
On Saturday 17th December, The Aurora Choir will be around the St James Square area between 11am and 1pm singing Christmas carols to help make last minute shopping more delightful. The Aurora Choir will be raising money for Ashgate Hospice and Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.
Shaun Brown, Centre Manager at Vicar Lane says: ‘’We’re delighted to bring back our Grotto and Workshop Experience for the local community and their families this year. There’s always a lot of excitement surrounding the events and with Chesterfield’s Christmas Lights Switch On event taking place on the same weekend, it’s a great opportunity to get out with family and friends and begin the Christmas preparations, with plenty of time to enjoy the fun!’’
Vicar Lane supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Vicar Lane Shopping Centre is inviting customers to experience the magic of Christmas, with a visit to Santa’s Workshop and cosy Grotto this festive season.
Families can enjoy a free, interactive experience at Santa’s Workshop, where little ones can come and meet the elves before writing their letter to Santa. Enjoy the moment together as their wish list gets posted in the magical post box and travels right before their eyes, to the North Pole.
Families wishing to head further into the Grotto, can then take an enchanted trip through a winter wonderland. At the end of the winding pathway, they will be greeted by Santa in his cosy grotto, surrounded by all of the toys for the good girls and boys.
Tickets to visit Santa’s Grotto are £8.50 each and every child will receive a gift, an ‘official good list’ certificate and reindeer food.
Santa’s Workshop and Grotto will be open from Saturday 19th November with a very special appearance from Snowy the Polar bear, roaming in the centre on Saturday 3rd December.
Due it’s previous success, Vicar Lane also offer an Autism Friendly Santa Experience (on selected dates and times) which support children with autism and sensory conditions to enjoy all of the Christmas magic in a more calming and relaxed environment. These sessions must be booked in advance. For more information on how to book, visit the Vicar Lane Shopping Centre website.
In addition to the events within the centre, there is a whole host of fun in the run up to the big day. On Sunday 20th November the Christmas lights will be turned on at 4.45pm in New Square.
For something creative, Vicar Lane is hosting a number of Wreath Making Workshops in conjunction with Thanks a Bunch, Sam’s Flower Boutique and Pizza Pi. Gather with friends and family for a 2-hour workshop inclusive of material, food and drink within the ticket price.
Dates Confirmed below:
NOVEMBER
Wed 30th between 1-3pm – Pizza Pi & Sam’s flower boutique
On Saturday 17th December, The Aurora Choir will be around the St James Square area between 11am and 1pm singing Christmas carols to help make last minute shopping more delightful. The Aurora Choir will be raising money for Ashgate Hospice and Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.
Shaun Brown, Centre Manager at Vicar Lane says: ‘’We’re delighted to bring back our Grotto and Workshop Experience for the local community and their families this year. There’s always a lot of excitement surrounding the events and with Chesterfield’s Christmas Lights Switch On event taking place on the same weekend, it’s a great opportunity to get out with family and friends and begin the Christmas preparations, with plenty of time to enjoy the fun!’’
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.
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.
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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