Author: Dom Stevens

Deadline extended for East Midlands Chamber Business Awards

The East Midlands Chamber Business Awards continue the search to find the region’s leading organisations, with the application process for the 2020 programme being extended until Monday 27 July.

During the current crisis, we have seen businesses across the region undertaking fantastic work to adapt to the new ways of working, all while keeping the economy ticking over, maintaining cash flow, helping the NHS and their wider communities and continuing to develop and retain staff.

The deadline extension will allow these businesses to come forward and showcase their innovation and success in the face of adversity.

With 13 categories to choose from, the awards are designed to ensure opportunity for businesses of all sizes and sectors across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire. Categories for 2020 include Apprentice of the Year; Business Improvement through Technology; Commitment to People Development; Community Impact; Education and Business Partnership; Entrepreneur of the Year; Environmental Impact Award; Excellence in Customer Service; Excellence in International Trade; Innovation in Manufacturing; Outstanding Growth; the Generation Next Young Professional Award; and Small Business of the Year.

A category winner will be chosen as Business of the Year for each county. Organisations can enter as many categories as they wish, the application process is 100% online to make it as easy and smooth as possible. Once an application has been created, entrants can edit their entries multiple times before the final submission.

The application process has also been updated to enable companies or individuals to be nominated for an award by others.

Scott Knowles, the Chamber’s Chief Executive said: “The year to date has been very difficult for all business yet it is still important to come together to celebrate our achievements. The Business Awards are a fantastic opportunity for businesses to shout about their successes and gain the recognition they deserve.”

“Entering the awards is a win-win at every level. The programme is among the most contested and prestigious around so they are a key tool in raising your profile and can complement your marketing strategies coming out of this crisis. Even if your application doesn’t make the shortlist, it is still read by the calibre of business talent which makes up our judging panel.”

“I would encourage businesses across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire to take advantage of this extension and I look forward to seeing the talent captured in this year’s programme.”

If you’re thinking of entering, the Chamber is hosting a series of online sessions aimed at supporting businesses to put forward their best possible entry into the Business Awards 2020.

Hosted by professional bid writer and consultant Rachel Hayward, from Ask the Chameleon, the session will cover category specific hints, tips and advice which can be taken away and applied to writing your award applications. More information can be found at https://www.emc-dnl.co.uk/connecting-you/business-awards/awards-application-writing-workshop/awards-writing-workshops-with-rachel-hayward.

For the first time, the awards are open to members and non-members. Applications can be created at www.emc-dnl.co.uk/businessawards. For any questions or queries, please contact events@emc-dnl.co.uk.

Click here to find out more about East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire)

The East Midlands Chamber are members of the Chesterfield Champions local business membership scheme. To find out more about the Chesterfield Champions, click here.

Bloc Digital won the East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) Derbyshire Business of the Year Award 2019

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home

A ‘celebrity’ shopping experience awaits Chesterfield shoppers

Non-essential retailers in Chesterfield town centre have returned to their shops and stores and re-opened with coronavirus-related safety measures in place after 13 weeks of closure.

The implementation of safety measures mean that some retailers are now promising shoppers a ‘celebrity’ shopping experience.

Laura Jo Owen, owner of Adorn Jewellers based in The Shambles said: “We’ve been chatting to our customers via social media throughout lockdown so that has helped us understand how they want to shop with us. They don’t want to queue and wait around to get into the shop which is why we’ve introduced an appointment only system to Adorn.”

“Whether purchasing or not, we want people to not feel pressured and have the shop to themselves – a celebrity shopping experience! We’re more than happy for customers just to browse and have a catch up with us – we’ve missed them.”

Ashgate Hospicecare has installed Perspex screens on the tills in its shops and also removed and condensed displays to enable people to observe the two-metre distancing rule.

Eighty-five per cent of the shops and stores in Vicar Lane Shopping Centre have re-opened with the remainder set to follow over the next few weeks.

Sarah Bowler, Office Administrator and Commercialisation Co-Ordinator at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, explained: “All of the retailers at Vicar Lane have been working very hard to implement measures that make it as safe as possible for everyone. As well as social distancing measures, some stores are providing hand-sanitising stations, or are offering appointment-only shopping. Additionally, some are operating reduced opening hours.”

Ashgate Hospicecare is undertaking a phased re-opening of its shops and donation centres over a three-week period. “The shops and donation centre will be re-opened over a three-week period, starting with our donation point and furniture store in Hasland,” added Laura Evans, Head of Retail Operations at Ashgate Hospicecare.

Sarah added: “We have provided details of every store’s safety measures and opening times on the Vicar Lane website to help visitors feel confident about visiting us. We’re reviewing government guidelines on a daily basis and ensuring that we are able to adapt quickly.”

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre

Supporting retailers and visitors, Chesterfield Borough Council has implemented social distancing measures throughout the town centre, market and Market Hall.

There is now visible signage around the town centre advising shoppers where to queue outside individual shops. There are also signs in areas such as car parks and green spaces reminding people to follow social distancing guidelines keeping two metres apart from anyone outside of their household, and not to congregate in groups.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The safety of those who live, work and shop in Chesterfield town centre remains the council’s number one priority and we have been working closely with local retailers and market traders to make sure we can maintain safe social distancing within the town centre.”

“If you are worried about anything or have any questions, our town centre ambassadors will be on hand to help you.”

Retailers have praised the measures Chesterfield Borough Council has put in place around the town centre. “The council has also really considered the flow of people around The Shambles so we’re confident that social distancing is fully in place for every visitor,” said Laura-Jo.

Adorn Jewellers of Chesterfield

The safety measures have also given entrepreneurs confidence to set up a town centre business.

Prior to lockdown, Natalia Marcheta, owner of mobile Prosecco bar, Salute, was due to set up a pop-up bar in Vicar Lane and plans remain in place for later in the year. She said: “Having seen the social distancing measures the council has put in place in the town centre, it has given us confidence to go-ahead with the venture in-line with the government guidelines of when hospitality businesses are allowed to re-open, as we know that our staff and customers will be safe.”

The British Retail Consortium (BRC), is urging the public to “play their part” in making shopping safer. It says customers should follow five steps:

  • Queue considerately
  • Maintain social distancing
  • Follow instructions inside and outside shops
  • Follow all necessary hygiene measures
  • Be respectful to shop staff

Lockdown has hit many businesses and charities on the high street hard. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), retailers saw clothing and footwear purchases fall by two thirds.

Laura Evans explained: “The temporary closure of our shops has had a significant impact on the charity. Twenty-nine per cent of Ashgate Hospicecare’s income comes from its retail operations so we’re delighted to be able to re-open the shops.”

Ashgate Hospicecare’s Hasland Store

Vicar Lane praised the Government support for retailers during lockdown. Sarah Bowler “We’re delighted that all the existing retailers in Vicar Lane are re-opening after Lockdown, and we’ve also got a new bridal shop opening called Precious Memories by Anne-Marie. The Government help has been very welcome during this period and retailers are very thankful for the Rates Relief for this year – it is a huge weight off their shoulders.”

Despite the forced closure of non-essential retailers, many of Chesterfield’s retailers believe lockdown has been good for the health of the high street. Many town centre businesses are positive about their future following the success of the Shop Local message which has been championed by Destination Chesterfield, Derbyshire Times and Chesterfield Borough Council throughout lockdown.

Launched in April by Destination Chesterfield, the Supporting Local website has helped Chesterfield’s independent businesses and service providers continue to operate and supply their services and products during lockdown.

Dom Stevens, Manager of Destination Chesterfield explained: “The resilience that local businesses and service providers have shown during lockdown has been remarkable. Plans are in place by Destination Chesterfield to continue to promote the Shop Local message beyond lockdown and support retailers in their recovery and help them thrive as part of the town centre.”

Laura-Jo Owen said: “I think lockdown has helped people realise the shops and stores they have on their doorstep so I am expecting new customers who discovered us on social media over the last 12 weeks, to also visit the shop. We’re so happy to re-open and welcome back old and new customers to Adorn.”

Lisa Swift, owner of Shop Indie agreed, saying: “We believe that after the lockdown has ended and people are allowed to move freely that they will have a much better appreciation of local businesses they have been reliant on during lockdown.”

Despite the challenging circumstances, Chesterfield’s retailers and the council are united in their enthusiasm to re-open and welcome back customers.

Councillor Kate Sarvent said: “It’s great to see so many people back in the town centre as we look to restart our local economy. We know that many of you will have spent the last three months shopping online, but now is your chance to come back to the town centre, indulge in some retail therapy and support Chesterfield businesses by shopping local.

“The town centre has so much to offer. From national retailers to small independent stores and of course our outdoor market and Market Hall, there really is something for everyone.

“You’ll have the opportunity to browse and buy some of those nice to have items that you simply haven’t been able to get. Father’s Day is just around the corner too, so it’s the perfect chance for you to support our local retailers when you’re out looking for a gift.”

Click here for the Destination Chesterfield Father’s Day Gift Guide

Laura Evans, of Ashgate Hospicecare, added: “One thing that hasn’t changed in all our shops however, is the warm and friendly welcome. We can’t wait to welcome staff, volunteers and customers back.”

Sarah Bowler from Vicar Lane Shopping Centre agreed, saying: “We’re all very excited to be re-opening and welcoming everyone and getting back to the new ‘normal’.”

For shoppers who are still shielding,  the website – www.chesterfield.co.uk/supportinglocal has details of nearly 100 shops, food and drink businesses, training, support and service providers in and around Chesterfield that have adapted to provide and supply their products and services remotely.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Two new units announced at Markham Vale in £25 million deal

Work to build two large new industrial units has started at Derbyshire County Council and HBD’s flagship regeneration site Markham Vale, signalling confidence in Derbyshire’s future economic prospects.

Aver Property Partnership Limited, a joint venture between Ergo and NFU Mutual, is building the 2 units at Markham Vale, off junction M1 29a, in a £25 million deal.

The units, measuring 221,518 square feet and 75,000 square feet, are being built on the north side of the business and logistics park and will be available to purchase or lease. Construction of the 2 units will be carried out by Derbyshire-based firm Bowmer and Kirkland.

Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Clean Growth and Regeneration, Councillor Tony King, said: “This investment in Markham Vale shows a great level of confidence in the Derbyshire economy and its potential for growth.”

“As we continue our work to support local businesses to recover from the downturn brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, it’s important that we continue to provide new opportunities for investment, bringing the potential for new jobs and helping to keep the economy moving.”

“This deal sends a strong signal to other investors that Derbyshire is a place that helps businesses to survive and thrive and I’m pleased that the construction contract has been awarded to a local business providing a further boost for the area and the local economy.”

Anthony Clitheroe, Director at HBD, said: “Both investors and occupiers are attracted by the high-quality build available at Markham Vale, combined with our proactive, partnership-led approach to development and proven track-record of delivering on time and to budget.”

Click here to find out more about Markham Vale

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home

Pets at Home Chesterfield pledges support for RSPCA Chesterfield and North Derbyshire in fundraising appeal

Until Sunday 5 July, customers at Pets at Home Chesterfield will be able to donate to the RSPCA Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, helping them to feed and care for rescue pets.

Support Adoption For Pets, the UK’s largest grant giving animal charity, has launched the nationwide ‘Save our Rescue Centres’ summer fundraising initiative, which will see pet rescue centres across the UK benefit from vital funds. Donations can be made either in store or online via the Support Adoption For Pets website.

Customers at the Chesterfield store will be encouraged to include a donation of as little as 50p to RSPCA Chesterfield and North Derbyshire when paying at the till, with 100% of all donations going straight to the rescue centre.

Many rescue centres across the UK are not currently able to rehome pets or host fundraising events as they normally would due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis, yet the pets in their care still need looking after.

Amy Wilson, Fundraising Manager for Support Adoption For Pets, said: “The ‘Save our Rescue Centres’ appeal is all about rescuing the rescues themselves; raising vital funds for them and the pets in their care, so that they are able to keep going until they can open, rehome pets, and fundraise as normal.”

“The message is simple – these pets cannot feed themselves. If you’re out shopping for pet essentials, just remember that even a 50p donation can help support a rescue pet with essentials like health checks,  food and shelter.”

“Every year, we are completely overwhelmed by the hard work and enthusiasm of Pets at Home stores as well as the generosity of its customers – and we thank them again for their support during these difficult times. We are urging people to give what they can in support of a rescue centre near them.”

Deb Wyld, Store Manager at Pets at Home Chesterfield, said: “We’re determined to raise as much money as we can for RSPCA Chesterfield and North Derbyshire during these challenging times, and hope that the people of Chesterfield will donate what they can, either while shopping with us in store or online.”

Support Adoption For Pets is a charity established by Pets at Home in 2006 and has helped more than 1,000 rehoming centres and animal welfare organisations across the UK. In addition to its fundraising work, it also runs dedicated adoption centres in Pets at Home stores.

For more information, and to make a donation, please visit: www.supportadoptionforpets.co.uk.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Summer

The Wool Cabin relocates to larger unit in Chesterfield’s Market Hall

The Wool Cabin, located in Chesterfield town centre, has moved to a larger, double unit within the Market Hall, offering a wider range of products and improved services for its customers.

Jason Hampson, Owner of The Wool Cabin, said: “I had got to the stage before the lockdown that I simply could not fit any more wool in my unit. I am now able to show off all the wools I stock plus extending my ranges. There is so much space inside the new unit to offer more ranges and a better service. I run a ‘knit and natter club’ on a Tuesday which due to the restrictions in place I will hopefully resume as soon as possible.”

He added: “I have made a significant investment in the new unit as I believe the people of Chesterfield deserve yarns at great prices. I have a lot of loyal customers who I am hoping will return and hopefully new ones too. The new unit is now open and I have also invested in a card machine so that my customers can pay by debit or credit card.”

Since The Wool Cabin first opened inside the Market Hall in February 2015, Jason and the team have steadily increased both the ranges and stock availability to better meet the demand in Chesterfield. The Wool Cabin is also involved in community projects and in the past have helped raise money for The Bluebell Wood Hospice as well as providing a significant amount of red wool for the 100th anniversary of WW1 last year.

Jason spoke about his family’s history of selling wool in Chesterfield: “My family has been in the wool retailing trade since the 1980’s when my late mother began working in a shop, she later opened her own wool shop. My dad carried on with retailing wool and first appeared on Chesterfield’s market in 2008. When I returned home in 2013 we decided to look at a permanent base for the business. When we heard the previous owner had decided to retire we decided it was a good time to open a permanent stall due to the demand from the public of Chesterfield.”

The new store is open from Monday 15th June and will be trading between 8am and 4pm but will be closed on Wednesdays and Sundays. The store will soon return to its former 9am-5pm opening hours. Customers can check the latest updates via The Wool Cabin’s social media channels.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business

CBE+ successfully implements new ERP system despite Covid-19 setbacks

CBE+ has successfully implemented their new ERP system across the business, despite setbacks triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic.

CBE+ is a specialist sub-contractor operating from modern, purpose-built facilities in Chesterfield specialising in CNC machining, electroless nickel plating, gears and laboratory services. The group was formed by Cooper Brown Enterprises who invested in four separate businesses to bring integrated supply chains to global markets including aerospace, oil and gas.

The new EFACS E/8 System went live Monday 1st June. Implementing a company-wide ERP System is part of their continual investment and strategy to unite the group.

Implementation was put at risk by the sudden work and travel restrictions imposed by the Government due to the Coronavirus emergency, with project team members self-isolating or unable to attend meetings in person. In addition, CBE+ experienced a particularly busy time due to their involvement in the Ventilator Challenge, whereby many tens of thousands of parts had to be manufactured within very tight deadlines.

Nevertheless, the team at CBE+ allocated extra days and weekends to continue their work of transferring data, testing functions and making sure the system was ready to go live. The postponement of the ‘go live’ date was minimised, which CBE+ sees as a great achievement considering the challenges the project team faced.

Lindsay Atkins, Group Production Manager, explained how the new system would benefit the business: “We are changing systems to increase visibility and support productivity. Our current systems do not give us the planning and flexibility which the business needs therefore requiring more manual input. EFACS will be integrated and will provide real time data.”

Marie Cooper, CEO, commented, “Although we didn’t make our initial target date, we still saw the project through to the end, despite everything happening at once: lockdown measures and the manufacturing of  medical devices parts we had never made before. A project of this magnitude must be done right, and under the circumstances the team performed exceptionally well. We believe EFACS will enable the controls and provide the insights we need to implement our strategy and grow the business in the future.”

CBE+ are members of the Chesterfield Champions local business membership scheme. To find out more about the Chesterfield Champions, click here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Featured, Home

New bridal and prom dress boutique to open at Vicar Lane

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre is excited to welcome another new local name to the centre with its very own pop-up shop.

Precious Memories is Chesterfield’s newest bridal and prom dress boutique – offering its customers a glamourous experience, whatever the occasion. The store is set to open on Monday 15th June.

The owner and creator of Precious Memories, Anne-Marie, has always dreamed of one day running her own business which utilises her talents and expertise. After many years of modelling in the wedding industry, she was finally brave enough to follow her own dreams of creating the vision she had always dreamed of; a pristine, glamorous boutique, specialising in making women feel beautiful, empowered and like the queens they are.

Anne-Marie has a talent for high end customer service, personal stylist experience and a flare for hospitality. She understands how to dress each body shape to flatter, reflect personality and to evoke that powerful confidence when a woman feels beautiful.

Anne-Marie creates a warm, friendly space for ladies seeking bridal gowns and prom dresses that gives the ultimate VIP service, second to none, to absolutely every customer who walks through her doors.

The beautifully designed interior of Precious Memories allows customers to peruse through the exclusive designer dresses at ease and their luxurious, private viewing area adds a VIP element to the experience.

Precious Memories is also set to host a series of networking events for Brides and professionals in the wedding industry to connect. Bringing together local make-up artists, hair stylists, photographers and more in one location, Brides-to-be will be able to trial and sample a selection of products and services in one venue, taking the stress out of the wedding planning process.

Shaun Brown, Centre Manager at Vicar Lane said, “We’re incredibly excited to be welcoming Anne-Marie and ‘Precious Memories’ to Vicar Lane. It is an incredibly exciting business model with lots of truly original elements that we are sure our customers will benefit from and most importantly – enjoy!”

Click here to find out more about Vicar Lane Shopping Centre

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre are members of the Chesterfield Champions local business membership scheme. To find out more about the Chesterfield Champions, click here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Featured, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Derbyshire recycling centres ease restrictions

‘Essential waste only’ restrictions at Derbyshire County Council recycling centres have been dropped from today (11 June 2020) – but residents will still only be allowed in on certain days to help with social distancing.

It means residents can take the full range of waste usually accepted to any of the 9 recycling centres across Derbyshire as long as they make the trip on the correct day based on the last number on their vehicle registration plate.

Vehicles with 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8 as the last number on their registration plate will be allowed in on even dates in the month. Those with 1, 3, 5, 7 or 9 as the last number on their registration plate will be allowed in on odd dates in the month.

Residents are being asked to avoid taking vans and trailers to recycling centres for a little while longer. This is because they have a larger capacity and take longer to empty, which could lead to longer traffic queues.

Cabinet Member for Highways Transport and Infrastructure, Councillor Simon Spencer said: “We’re taking a step-by-step approach to relaxing some of the restrictions put in place to manage demand so we could operate safely during the first weeks of reopening during the coronavirus pandemic, and I’m pleased to say we can now start to accept our usual range of waste.”

“But that doesn’t mean it’s business as usual. Social distancing measures are still in place to help protect visitors which means we can fit around half as many vehicles on site compared to normal. Our sites are still expected to be busy so visitors should still be prepared to queue.”

 

More than 60,000 vehicles have passed through the recycling centres countywide since they reopened on 18 May 2020.

Councillor Spencer added: “I’d like to thank the public for their patience while we’ve been dealing with this unprecedented situation and for continuing to follow our golden rules to help things run smoothly.”

“Check which day you’ll be allowed in. This will depend on your vehicle number plate. You can find out whether you should visit on an odd or even numbered date of the month on our website where you can also find the latest queue situation at each site before you set off.”

“Please avoid bringing vans and trailers for just a little while longer. This is because they take longer to empty which could cause longer queues. And remember to wear protective gloves and suitable clothing and footwear as you will have to carry your waste yourself.”

“Please avoid bringing friends and family along for the ride where possible unless you need help to unload – this will help with social distancing on site. If you do need to bring children with you then please keep them in your car for their own safety.”

“Remember to stay at least 2 metres away from others and only approach skips and ramps when they’re not being used by other users, wash your hands when you get home and, of course, stay at home if you have coronavirus symptoms in the last 14 days, are self-isolating or at high risk of contracting the virus.”

Recycling centres open 7 days a week from 8:30am to 6pm in the following locations:

  • Ashbourne
  • Bolsover
  • Bretby
  • Chesterfield
  • Glossop
  • Ilkeston
  • Loscoe
  • Northwood (Darley Dale)
  • Waterswallows – near Buxton

Find more information about the types of waste accepted at the sites and all the latest safety information. People can also find out about waiting times. Business or trade waste is not accepted.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

Chesterfield’s digital flower festival – Grow and Tell

Chesterfield Borough Council is encouraging residents to share pictures of gardens, wildlife and wildflowers they spot around the borough in order to help create a digital flower festival.

The virtual festival, Grow and Tell, aims to collect images from around the borough that show off some of the colourful flower displays created by residents, as well as wildflowers and wildlife from across the borough’s many green spaces. Residents are also asked to share some of the stories behind the photographs.

Councillor Jill Mannion-Brunt, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “With the cancellation of Britain in Bloom, Grow and Tell is a chance for us all to show how marvellous Chesterfield looks at this time of year. I hope lots of people will send pictures of all the hard work they’ve done during lockdown in their gardens and pictures of the unusual flowers they have spotted whilst exploring the borough.”

All the images and accompanying messages that are sent in will be placed in a special gallery on the council’s website and Facebook page for anyone to view whenever they need a splash of colour and inspiration.

In order to share your pictures for Grow and Tell please d one of the following:

Find out more and view the gallery here.

In addition to the digital flower festival, Chesterfield Borough Council is holding a Chesterfield’s Still Blooming competition to find the borough’s best sunflowers, with garden centre vouchers on offer as prizes for the winners.

There are three categories:

  1. Tallest sunflower – from the top of the soil to the top of the flower. (Please make sure your picture is next to a tape measure)
  2. Sunflower with the largest flower head based on diameter or width. (Please include a photo next to a ruler or tape measure).
  3. Sunflower plant with the most flower heads. (Please try to make sure all flower heads are visible in your photo).

To enter please send a picture of your sunflower, stating your name and the category you want to enter to green.spaces@chesterfield.gov.uk

Chesterfield’s Still Blooming will run until Wednesday 30 September 2020. Winners will be given a special certificate and vouchers that can be used at garden centres.

The council will announce the winners on social media and share some of the best pictures from the competition.

Chesterfield in Bloom

Posted in About Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Whittam Cox Architects reach over £50,000 raised for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice

Whittam Cox Architects are delighted to announce they have reached a significant milestone, having raised over £50,000 for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

The practice, who have supported the charity for the past 6 years, have taken part in various fundraising initiatives from Skydives, Bluebell Wood’s ‘Bag it up’, 10k road races and bake off events to raise money for the organisation, who offer care and support to children with a shortened life expectancy, both in their own homes and in the hospice in North Anston.

Most recently, employees from the practice have taken part in the 2.6 challenge which involved participating in a range of activities based around 2.6 or 26. For this campaign they raised £850 which will be split between Bluebell Wood and their other partner charity, Ashgate Hospicecare.

Jon Godwin, Director, who heads up CSR initiatives at the practice, said, “We’re really proud to have supported Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice for the last 6 years. The work they do for families in the region is absolutely invaluable.”

“Charities will undoubtedly be struggling for funds at this time, so I’m pleased the team have been able pull together in the circumstances in order to do our bit to raise crucial funds for these two fantastic local charities.”

Sam Wood, Head of Fundraising at Bluebell Wood, added: “Whittam Cox Architects have been fantastic supporters over the years and we’re consistently taken aback by their generosity.”

“A huge thank you to all at the practice and to everyone who has supported their amazing fundraising for all your support – it really does make a huge difference to local children and families who are going through the most difficult of times.”

The practice will continue to raise funds for both charities throughout 2020.

For further information about either of Whittam Cox Architects partnered charities Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and Ashgate Hospicecare please visit www.bluebellwood.org or www.ashgatehospicecare.org.uk

Click here to find out more about Whittam Cox Architects

Whittam Cox Architects are members of the Chesterfield Champions local business membership scheme. To find out more about the Chesterfield Champions, click here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Featured, Home

Chesterfield’s Love Brewing hire four new staff after business growth during lockdown

Chesterfield-based business, Love Brewing, is celebrating growth in the business with the addition of four new members of staff.

The new team members will help to support the company’s growing customer base which has nearly quadrupled over the lockdown period including increased international sales alongside orders from across the country.

Love Brewing, based on Chatsworth Road, is a one-stop shop for anyone who enjoys making beer, wine, cider, or spirits at home and have a vast range of equipment and supplies available to purchase via its website and two retail outlets.

During the current Covid-19 crisis, Love Brewing has seen a huge renaissance in the sector and staff have been working 24/7 for the last 3 months to fulfil over 2000 orders per week.

Darren Byrne, General Manager of Love Brewing, said: “From a standing start some 8 years ago, we are delighted to have grown to be one of the leading home brew websites in the UK. We have been responsible for bringing some of the most innovative new products in home brew to the UK market over this time and have now developed our very own premium quality Wineworks, Ciderworks and Beerworks kits.”

Darren added: “My staff have risen to the challenge and I couldn’t wish for a better crew to have working for us, they have kept us running throughout all this and have adapted to the new working shift times, extra working days and working and trusting each other in the new working conditions of a COVID19 world we find ourselves in”.

Love Brewing has also been supporting essential organisations by producing hand sanitiser from the alcohol they produce with a mix of botanicals. Further emphasising the organisations focus on community – to produce the sanitiser and have been providing to local care homes and schools during the lockdown period including Hady School which Darren’s children attend.

Love Brewing are proud members of the Chesterfield Champions business membership scheme. Joining the scheme is a direct statement of belief from organisations about their commitment to Chesterfield and its successful future.

Darren said: “Chesterfield although a town, does have a feel of a city; embrace the local people and local produce and companies and you won’t go far wrong- a key reason we signed up as a Chesterfield Champion to join forces with the community focussed network.”

Click here to find out more about Love Brewing

Click here to find out more about becoming a Chesterfield Champion

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield

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