Author: Dom Stevens

Chesterfield Festival of Cricket hailed as a success

Derbyshire Chief Executive Simon Storey has hailed another successful Custom Solar Chesterfield Festival of Cricket, in association with Chesterfield Borough Council.

Over 8,000 people attended the week-long festival across five days of cricket, as Derbyshire claimed a four-day win over Northamptonshire before securing a dramatic Vitality Blast victory against Yorkshire Vikings on Saturday.

The Twenty20 fixture was played in front of a 4,500 sold out crowd at Queen’s Park, the second year in a row the match has been an advance sell out as the popularity of the festival continues to grow.

Storey said: “It was a terrific week of cricket and wrapping it up with victory in the last over against Yorkshire on Saturday capped off a memorable week in the north of the county.

“Queen’s Park is a special venue and Members, supporters and players always enjoy the annual trip to Chesterfield.

“The festival brings many benefits to the local community, with thousands of people visiting the town, while it also provides local school kids and cricket club juniors the opportunity to enjoy county cricket right on their doorstep.

“Taking county cricket to Chesterfield is always a huge operational challenge for our off-field team, Chesterfield Cricket Club and Chesterfield Borough Council. Running a matchday safely at an out-ground is hugely challenging and in particular the operations team led by Jamie Guthrie, ground care team led by Neil Godrich and commercial team led by Ryan Duckett work hard for many weeks in preparation.

“A successful festival also relies on partnerships and the support of the local community. We are fortunate to work with local partners such as Custom Solar and Brampton Brewery, and we also get the full support of Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield Cricket Club and Friends of Queen’s Park Cricket. We are hugely grateful for the support we receive.

“The highlight of the week was undoubtedly another sell-out crowd for the traditional Vitality Blast fixture against Yorkshire, and they were treated to one of the best Twenty20 matches the venue has ever seen.

“Every year we look to improve and grow the festival. One thing we will need to review for future years is our policy around Member tickets for any all-ticket match.

“Our post-match analysis suggests that a large number of Members who claimed tickets in advance did not turn up on the day, which meant we were unable the sell those tickets to other fans who wanted to watch the match. As a result, we missed out on significant income, all of which could have been invested back into the Club. I’m sure Members will appreciate that we will need to look at this as part of our Membership package for next year.

“On the whole, it was a terrific week at Queen’s Park with good crowds, excellent cricket and, most importantly, two wins for Derbyshire.

“What made it more satisfying was to see our young Derbyshire home-grown players play a key role in all the matches. As a Club, we remain committed to the development of our young players and we must continue to build for the future and produce cricketers who can consistently win games for the county.”

Rainbow at Chesterfield Festival of Cricket

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Banner Jones signs up to support terminally ill workers

Banner Jones Solicitors has become the latest business to officially sign up to the TUC Dying to Work Charter, an initiative put in place to highlight the firm’s commitment to treating its staff with respect and dignity should they receive a terminal diagnosis.

The first law firm to sign up to the charter, Banner Jones, a law firm operating across South Yorkshire, Derbyshire and the East Midlands, is proud to be supporting its workers in a way that enables them freedom of choice with regards to their career should they be diagnosed with a terminal illness.

In the UK, there is currently no protection from dismissal for people with terminal illnesses and so the Dying to Work Charter is instrumental in ensuring workers get the support they require.

The Charter is part of the TUC’s wider Dying to Work campaign which is seeking greater security for terminally ill workers where they cannot be dismissed as a result of their condition. Whilst, in some situations, a person may decide that they do not want to continue working, in other cases, workers with a terminal illness may elect to continue working for as long as they can, whether it be for financial security or as a valuable distraction.

Dying to Work was taken forward by the TUC following the case of Jacci Woodcook, an area sales manager from Derbyshire, who was forced out of her job three years ago after being diagnosed with terminal breast cancer.

Lisa Gill, HR Manager at Banner Jones, commented:

“We have always endeavoured to support our employees in the best way possible and so, by signing up to the Dying to Work Charter, we are demonstrating our commitment to the health and wellbeing of our team.

“The Charter sets out an agreed way in which our employees will be supported, protected and guided throughout their employment following diagnosis of a terminal illness and I would encourage every firm to make this pledge.”

Lee Barron, TUC Midlands Regional Secretary, commented:

“Your job should be the least of your worries when you get a terminal diagnosis.

“I’m delighted that Banner Jones have shown real leadership in this area, working with unions to guarantee fair treatment for terminally-ill workers.

“600,000 workers are now covered by the Dying to Work charter across the country, and we expect more employers to commit in the coming months.”

Banner Jones

HR Manager Lisa Gill and Executive Director, Chris Sellars

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business

University of Derby increases overall student satisfaction in National Survey of Students

The University of Derby has achieved 86 percent overall student satisfaction in this year’s National Survey of Students (NSS) – up from 85 percent in 2017.

The NSS is a high-profile annual census of nearly half a million students across the UK, commissioned by the Office for Students. Aimed at mainly final-year undergraduates, it gathers opinions about their time in higher education, asking them to provide honest feedback about what it has been like to study on their course at their institution.

The University also increased its scores in the key areas of teaching on my course (88 percent, up 1 percent on last year); assessment and feedback (79 percent, up 2 percent on last year) and academic support (83 percent, up 2 percent on last year).

Seven subject areas at the University achieved 100% satisfaction (an increase from four in 2017) – these are:

  • Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology
  • Biology
  • Building
  • Comparative Literary Studies
  • Dance
  • History
  • Ocean Science

This year 21 of the University’s publishable subject areas (where at least 50% of students responded to the survey) had an overall satisfaction score above 90% (an increase from 19 in 2017).

17 programmes achieved 100% satisfaction (an increase from eight in 2017) – these are:

  • BA (Hons) Applied Social Work, BA (Hons) Business Accounting and Finance, BA (Hons) Business Studies, BA (Hons) Commercial Photography, BA (Hons) English, BA (Hons) History, BA (Hons) International Hospitality Management, BA (Hons) Media Production, BA (Hons) Sociology, BSc (Hons) Biology, BSc (Hons) Construction Management and Property Development, BSc (Hons) Human Biology, BSc (Hons) Sound, Light and Live Event Technology, FdSc Asphalt and Pavement Technology, FdSc International Spa Management, FdSc Mineral Extractives Technology (UK) and MSc Accounting and Finance

The NSS results follow the University’s inclusion earlier this month in the top 100 institutions in Europe for teaching excellence in the Times Higher Education rankings, and our Teaching and Learning Strategy of the Year win at the Times Higher Education Leadership and Management Awards (THELMAs) in June.

Derby also achieved an overall ranking of ninth nationally out of 105 higher education institutions (with an overall satisfaction score of 88 percent) in the Advance HE Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) 2018.

Over the last 10 years, the University has invested more than £200 million in its facilities to ensure that students have access to some of the most modern teaching and learning spaces in the country. Last year, £28 million was invested in improving the campus infrastructure and teaching resources.

To ensure that students play a meaningful part in University decision-making, the Vice-President of the Union of Students co-chairs the Student Experience Learning and Teaching Committee – a major committee with significant influence and one that is supported by the Vice-Chancellor. The University Executive team also meets annually with students, giving them the chance to ask questions or raise any areas of concern.

The University’s Student Experience Framework, designed with input from students and staff, groups together existing opportunities for student learning and personal development offered by the University in one place. It also offers new opportunities such as the International Travel Awards, which this year has seen students visit Iceland, Budapest and New York.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “As a Gold TEF rated institution, we are committed to providing the very best experience for all of our students, not just in terms of teaching but the high quality facilities they have access to and our whole University estate.

“Today’s NSS results further reinforce this commitment. It is fantastic to be acknowledged by our students for the work we are doing in meeting their needs. By listening to our students and giving them a real voice that influences our decision-making, we can ensure that we continue to deliver an outstanding learning experience into the future.”

Professor Malcolm Todd, Provost, added: “Our philosophy is not to see our students as the ‘consumers’ of an educational product. Instead, our commitment is to work in true partnership with our students to constantly seek out ways in which we can enhance and improve the student experience. The students at the University of Derby work with us in varied ways to assure that they will receive an outstanding quality experience which takes them onto whatever they want to do in the future, whether that’s further study, research or graduate-level employability.”

Find out more about the National Survey of Students here www.thestudentsurvey.com

university derby armed forces

Posted in About Chesterfield

The Lounges to open Sorbo Lounge in former Chesterfield Post Office

The Lounges, the West Country based restaurant/café/bar group is opening a brand-new site in Chesterfield on Wednesday 8th August 2018. Sorbo Lounge will open on Market Place, creating 25 jobs for local people.

The Lounges have spent £500k transforming the site into a family-friendly retro-inspired cosy retreat, where eclectic artwork and quirky curios sit next to oversized vintage sofas and old school benches, strikingly painted table tops and statement lighting, in the eclectic style much loved by Lounge aficionados.

Particular attention has been paid to families – there is a fine selection of games and books, colouring pencils and pads, a full menu just for Little Loungers and high chairs and baby-change facilities are available for the tiny ones.

Phil Kinsella, Operations Manager, The Lounges, said “We’re really looking forward to throwing open the doors at Sorbo Lounge and showing the locals how to lounge in style. The team are looking forward to becoming part of the community and will support local groups and initiatives wherever possible.”

A community notice board is available for those wanting to publicise events and a book swap area is kept well stocked. The team will also be holding regular fund-raising events as part of their commitment to making a difference in the community. With this in mind the team have chosen to support Fairplay, a local organisation that supports children and young people with disabilities and additional needs, and their families, across North Derbyshire. Sorbo Lounge will donate 50p from every burger and 10p from every coffee sold from their first month of trading to the charity.

Sorbo Lounge will cater for all tastes throughout the day. Whether you’re looking for the best coffee in town, a business lunch with colleagues or a lazy all-day brunch, Sorbo Lounge is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The all-day menu features everything from their famous authentic tapas and Hero Burger to Tin Pan Louie’s beef chilli, packed paninis and the best mac and cheese you’ve ever tasted… or there’s the ever-changing specials menu. Little loungers, vegans and those favouring a gluten-free diet are well catered for with their very own menus.

SORBO LOUNGE IN CHESTERFIELD

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Spire Radio to broadcast Chesterfield FC match updates

Two Chesterfield Champions are joining forces to bring fans of Chesterfield FC live updates from matches in the Vanarma National League. Spire Radio are delighted to announce that they are an official media partner of Chesterfield FC for the 2018/19 National League campaign.

When Chesterfield begin their new season on August 4th away at Ebsfleet there will be a new team bringing live updates to Spireites during the match. Alan Wilkinson, known to many fans simply as Big Al, will be leading the live updates from the stadium while Adam Marsden leads the team back in the studio.

Spire Sports presenter, Adam Marsden said “It’s a great opportunity for the station and the club to build on our already strong partnership. I look forward to being able to bring live action from the Spireites this season as well as reaction after 5pm alongside a team of very talented presenters who are excited to get the ball rolling for next season.”

Spire Sports is every Saturday from 2pm with pre-match build up from around the grounds, including Matlock and Dronfield Town. From 3pm you can expect live goal flashes and updates from the match during each half plus player and manager reactions at full time. The Fan Reaction starts at 5pm and fans can get in touch via social media, both during and after the match, email and on the phone via 01246 200 454 when Adam opens the lines. Listen in via www.spire-radio.com

Programme Director at Spire Radio, Simon Barnett commented; “We can’t wait to kick off the new season with Chesterfield FC – providing this level of coverage is a big challenge for us, but one I know that Alan, Adam and all of our sports team will rise to every Saturday from 2pm. As an online only station we are limited by the fact that we aren’t on a traditional radio, but we are available all around the world via our website on mobile, tablet and desktop. I’m looking forward to the launch of the Fans Reaction Show from 5pm we’ll be getting a fans eye view of the match straight after the final whistle – giving Spireites the chance to pass their verdict on the match.”

Tommy Lee testimonial

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Leisure

Training academy celebrates success of learners

On July 18th 2018, Chesterfield-based training provider One to One Support Services, Training Academy held its annual Celebration of Learning event in Hasland. This event recognised the achievements and successess of learners, along with their employers and partners who have supported with the students’ progression.

This year’s winner for Apprentice of the Year 16-18 was Toni Raynes from Chantreyland Children’s Nursery. Last December she completed her Level 2 Childcare qualification. The team she works with were so impressed with her level of commitment they put them onto her Level 3 childcare qualification as soon as possible.

The Outstand Performer Award went to Barry Green of One to One Support Services. He had overcome extreme fears about completing a qualification, his tutor says he has never missed an appointment; he is always on time and willing to spend the time to develop his knowledge. Even his manager says he is a confident worker who you can always depend on. He has overcome all of his worries and completed his qualification with flying colours.

The Employer of the Year award winner was the Chantreyland Children’s Nursery. One to One has worked with them for some time and always find they have gone the extra mile, they are always willing and open for our tutors to spend time with the learners. By allowing this in turn this develops the apprentice allowing the workplace to benefit from the skills that they go on to develop.

Another winner of the day was Bisharo Omar. She won the Level 1 Development Award for Sheffield. Bisharo had joined the City and Guilds accredited Level 1 in Health and Social Care/Children and Young People course ran by the Training Academy team and managed to secure a position at One to One Support Services. She supports a number of our clients and since joining One to One as a Community Care Assistant everyone only has fantastic things to say about her. Her manager describes her as a confident woman who uses her own initiative and has become a fantastic part of the team.

The celebration also honoured employers who have given learners the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in their place of work and contributed to their practical skills learning.

Melanie Ulyatt MBE, Managing Director comments on the event: “This year’s celebration was a really special moment for us as a Training Academy as we enjoyed welcoming our learner’s friends and families to come and join us and celebrate their achievements. Over the past year, we have become a prime provider and we now have our own contract with the Education and Skills Funding Agency.

celebration of learning 2018

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business

International football returns to the Proact Stadium

England will play a key 2019 UEFA European U21 Championship qualifier in Chesterfield in October.

The Young Lions will take on Andorra at the Proact Stadium on Thursday, October 11 (7.45pm).

Tickets are on sale now priced £10 for adults and £5 for concessions. A family ticket (two adults and two children) is available at £20 and group booking and Charter Standard discounts apply.

Tickets can be purchased online via the club website or by calling 01246 269300 (option 1).

England beat Andorra 1-0 in the reverse fixture in October 2017, thanks to a goal from Everton’s Tom Davies.

Aidy Boothroyd’s side are top of Group 4, five points ahead of Netherlands who they face in their next home game at Norwich City’s Carrow Road stadium on Thursday, September 6 (7.45pm KO).

Boothroyd said: “We’re really looking forward to playing in Chesterfield. It’s a great stadium and I know from experience just how good the support is there.

“This match will be a really important one for us. Hopefully we’ll have already qualified for next summer’s tournament and it’ll be a big game in terms of our preparation, but if we still need to get points then I’m confident we’ll be able to do it here.

“We’ve got a really talented, hard-working group of players and I know they can’t wait to play in front of our home supporters and hopefully a full stadium in Chesterfield.”

A Chesterfield FC club spokesperson said: “We are delighted to be hosting international football once again at the Proact.

“The prospect of watching some of the country’s brightest young footballing talents is certain to appeal to the people of Chesterfield and we look forward to another good crowd for the match.”

The finals will be played in Italy and San Marino in June 2019.

For more information, please visit www.TheFA.com/England.

England U21 V Andorra U21

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Visiting

Chesterfield’s visitor economy to take centre stage at town’s annual Investment Summit

Chesterfield’s burgeoning visitor economy and how it can be used to further regenerate the area, is set to be the focus of the town’s upcoming Investment Summit, taking place on Wednesday 19 September at Casa Hotel.

Rupert Carr, Director of Birchall Properties, the company behind Peak Resort, and James Berresford, Chair of the Derbyshire Culture Heritage and Tourism Board and former CEO of Visit England have been announced as the keynote speakers at the free event.

They will be joined by Adam Hearld of Jomast Developments, which is transforming the former Co-op building, and Huw Bowen, Chief Executive of Chesterfield Borough Council.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield, Derbyshire Economic Partnership and Marketing Derby and part funded by the European Regional Development Fund, the annual Investment Summit, is designed to update the property industry and the business community on the latest investment opportunities in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

As well as the keynote speakers, there will be an update on regeneration sites across North Derbyshire, exhibitors from key regeneration sites and a question and answer panel with speakers and local decision makers.

Commenting on the Summit, Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield and Derbyshire Economic Partnership Board Member, said: “With Chesterfield’s location and connectivity within the UK, the town has always had a unique appeal to investors.

“The announcement of the HS2 stop in Chesterfield, along with the major hotel and housing developments taking place, have sparked, and continue to spark, a surge of interest in the town from inward investors locally, regionally and nationally.

“It is critical everyone understands the opportunities available both now and in future years and the Investment Summit event is the forum to enable this. It is a very exciting time for the town.”

Taking place from 8:30am – 12:00pm at the Casa Hotel, there will be the opportunity to network over breakfast.

More than 150 people attended the event last year and this year’s Summit is expected to prove equally popular.

The event is free, but booking is essential as numbers are limited.

To book your tickets, please visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-investment-summit/

Chesterfield Investment Summit 2018

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development

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