Bridge Help celebrates five-year milestone from Chesterfield base
Chesterfield’s Bridge Help, a specialist provider of commercial bridging finance, is proudly celebrating five successful years in business.
Operating from its central Chesterfield headquarters, located on Old Brick Works Lane, the company has not only thrived but also defied the odds, with fewer than half of UK businesses surviving beyond their fifth year, according to government statistics.
Research shows that the likelihood of business failure increases year-on-year up to five years:
- 1 year: 6% have failed
- 2 years: 27% have failed
- 3 years: 44% have failed
- 4 years: 54% have failed
- 5 years: 60% have failed
Founded in 2019 by Chesterfield native Chris Sellars, Bridge Help has since risen to become a trusted name in the bridging finance industry as well as developing a reputation for doing complex deals.
Reflecting on the achievement, Chris Sellars, General Counsel and Chief Executive of Bridge Help, said: “Reaching the five-year milestone is particularly meaningful because the odds are stacked against businesses surviving this long. It hasn’t always been easy, but through adaptability, hard work, and a commitment to doing things better, we’ve carved out a niche as a lender that prioritises personalised service over a ‘tick-box’ approach.”
In addition to the firm’s people-focused approach, Chris attributes Bridge Help’s strategic location in Chesterfield as a contributor to its success. The town providing a central base for servicing brokers and investors throughout England and Wales as well as attending major industry events in Manchester, London, and beyond.
He added: “Chesterfield is more than just my hometown; it’s the ideal location for Bridge Help. Its central position enables us to stay connected to brokers and clients across the UK while attending key industry events such as MBE and the Finance Professional Show. I remain deeply committed to Chesterfield, which has proven to be an excellent foundation for our growth.”
Bridge Help was launched to address inefficiencies Chris encountered during his legal career with Banner Jones Solicitors, where delays in securing finance often disrupted property deals. Determined to make a difference, he founded the company to offer fast, tailored lending solutions.
Originally based at offices on Hady Hill, the company relocated to its current HQ off Sheffield Road in 2020 where it employs a nine-strong team. Chesterfield’s central location and transport networks allows the team to meet brokers and clients across the UK with ease while also attending industry events that drive business growth.
“Chesterfield isn’t just where our story began; it’s central to how we operate. The town offers a fantastic quality of life for our team, and its strategic position enables us to remain agile and responsive to our clients’ needs,” he added.
Looking to the future, the company has recently secured additional inward funding, which will enable it to expand its lending book sustainably.
“This town is part of our DNA, and we’re excited to continue our journey here, supporting businesses and property projects across the UK. Here’s to the next five years and beyond.”
If you’re looking for a short-term loan for commercial property and would like to speak to a member of the Bridge Help business development team, contact Bridge Help on 033 3303 4681 or visit bridgehelp.co.uk.
Bridge Help supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
