Destination Chesterfield

Rediscover everything that’s great about Chesterfield

Residents in Chesterfield are encouraged to get together this half-term and rediscover everything that’s great about the borough.

Whether that be revisiting an old favourite or discovering something new, residents are being urged to seek out shops, cafes, bars and restaurants that are unique to the borough – and the October half-term break is the perfect chance for the whole family to get together and rediscover what’s great about Chesterfield.

As well as supporting local businesses, there’s also plenty to keep the whole family entertained this half-term, including the return of the popular 1940’s market on Thursday 28 October.

Families can also enjoy a trip to Chesterfield Museum where they will have a final chance to check out the popular ‘Put That Light Out’ Exhibition and discover what life in Chesterfield was like during World War Two. There’s also a chance to explore the stories, experiences and contributions of the African and Caribbean Community in Chesterfield in the latest exhibition, ‘Chesterfield Black Stories’ which is presented in partnership with ACCA.

More information on events during half-term can be found at www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/half-term-in-chesterfield.

The ‘Love Chesterfield’ campaign was launched earlier this year by Chesterfield Borough Council, in partnership with Destination Chesterfield to support the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors as national restrictions eased, to encourage residents to celebrate Chesterfield’s local businesses.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “There’s lots to love here in Chesterfield and we love shining the spotlight on our local businesses. Since the launch of our Love Chesterfield campaign earlier this year, and as restrictions eased, we’ve already seen a positive return of customers to the borough’s high streets and we’re urging everyone to continue shopping locally and safely.

“The past 18 months have been incredibly difficult for our local businesses so it’s important that we continue to support them as much as we can.

“In the town centre alone, there are around 200 independent retailers where you’ll find a range of unique, quirky and exciting gifts and products that you simply wouldn’t find anywhere else. Add to these to the numerous markets that the town centre supports and there really is something for everyone to discover.

“And not forgetting the variety of cafes, bars and restaurants that are available, Chesterfield has a quiet food revolution happening so you’ll be spoilt for choice when dining out in the borough.”

More information on dining out in Chesterfield can be found at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfield/

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “It’s a very exciting time for the town in its recovery from the pandemic. The Love Chesterfield campaign is a great opportunity for people to rediscover the town centre and all that it has to offer.

“With lockdown restrictions lifted and Christmas only weeks away there has never been a better time to get out and about and support local businesses in their recovery. From places to eat and drink to major retailers and quirky independents shops and market stalls, there is a multitude of reasons for people to Love Chesterfield as a place to shop and socialise.”

As part of the Love Chesterfield campaign, businesses are being supported to boost their profile. Independent shops, bars and eateries are among the businesses encouraged to take advantage of a new #LoveChesterfield support pack, featuring a range of free marketing materials which they can use to collectively celebrate the unique products and experiences available in the borough.

The pack includes a range of customisable images and resources for businesses to use on their social media, posters and window vinyl designs – all of which can be downloaded for free at www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfield/business-support-pack.

The Love Chesterfield awards took place on Wednesday 20 October. The awards celebrate the town’s favourite food, drink and retail businesses, and also recognise outstanding local entrepreneurs, regeneration work, business contribution to the local community, apprenticeships and sustainability. More information including details of the winners can be found at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/.

 

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Surprise marriage proposal takes centre stage at 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards

Love really was in the air at last night’s 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards. Taking centre stage at the sell-out award ceremony was a marriage proposal by Giuseppe Barone, co-owner of Sicily Restaurant which won Best New Hospitality Business.

Walking up on stage to collect the award, Giuseppe dropped to one knee and proposed to his business partner Monica Sardisco in front of a shocked and delighted crowd.

Giuseppe explained: “The proposal was all planned for if we won but if we didn’t win it wasn’t going to happen. I am very happy – for the award and for Monica saying ‘yes’.”

Sicily Restaurant was just one of 16 businesses and individuals celebrated at the Love Chesterfield Awards – the first in-person event held in 19 months by Destination Chesterfield.

Almost 50 businesses, individuals and projects were shortlisted across 16 categories, but it was Adorn Jewellers, Chesters Restaurant & Takeaway and CarMats.co.uk that clinched the three headline awards – Retailer of the Year, Restaurant of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year respectively.

Recent Strictly star and breakfast TV presenter Mike Bushell announced the winners of the awards at a sell-out black tie event held at the Winding Wheel on Wednesday 20 October.

More than 250 people attended the celebration. Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield Manager said: “This year the awards were a celebration on so many levels – recognising entrepreneurial and community spirit, achievement, survival and a marriage proposal – the first in our awards history. I am delighted that the business community was once again able to come together in person, connect with each other and share in each other’s success. It was a brilliant event.”

New business CarMats.co.uk, owned by Ash Young, is the first ever recipient of the Entrepreneur of the Year award. The Chesterfield-based ecommerce business, which sells car mats, was founded during the first lockdown in 2020 and achieved £1 million in revenue in just nine months. Capitalising on his success, he has since established a second digital business selling car seat covers this year.

Delighted to win the award, Ash said: “During lockdown I wanted to set up a business to support local jobs. Car mats is a bit of a strange business, but everyone uses car mats and they wear out. We are now looking to expand across Europe going into Ireland first and then onto France and all from Chesterfield.

“We’re really proud of what we’ve done with Carmats.co.uk and it’s really nice to get the recognition locally.”

CarMats.co.uk was just one of 761 new businesses registered in Chesterfield during 2020 – an increase of 20% compared to the previous year.

Long established businesses, town centre-based Adorn Jewellers, and Chesters based on Sheffield Road are previous multiple award winners in the Chesterfield High Street and Food and Drink awards.

Chesters is investing £1 million opening a second restaurant at Markham Vale. Chris Ioanides, Owner of Chesters, which next year celebrates its 10th anniversary, said: “It means so much to us to be recognised locally. Even though we’ve been in the top 10 in the UK this award means more to us because it’s Chesterfield people that have got us where we are today. It fills our hearts to know that we are up there with the top restaurants in the town.”

Capitalising on the success of Adorn, which opened in The Shambles in 2010, owners Laura-Jo and Adam Owen opened a second shop, Acorn Jewellers, in Bakewell in 2017. An emotional Laura Jo said: “We’re thrilled to win this award. Our success is our customers – 100%. We have a wonderful community of customers and this award is for them.”

The Love Chesterfield Awards replace and combine the town’s popular Food and Drink and High Street Awards. Three new categories have also been added to the Love Chesterfield awards line-up – Sustainability, Community Contribution and Entrepreneur of the Year.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield and sponsored by EntireFM, categories in the new Love Chesterfield Awards reflect the challenges which local businesses, people and projects have faced over the last 18 months as well as the business landscape post pandemic.

Speaking at the awards, Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “The last 19 months have been a turbulent time for all of us. But our local businesses have shown such resilience; adapting and supporting each other to keep moving forward. They have all achieved so much and inspired others to follow in their footsteps. It is an honour to be able to recognise so many at the Love Chesterfield Awards.”

Love Chesterfield Awards

Winners of the 16 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards categories include:

Restaurant of the Year – Sponsored by Entire FM

Chesters

“It means so much to us to be recognised locally. Even though we’ve been in the top 10 in the UK this award means more to us because it’s Chesterfield people that have got us where we are today. It fills our hearts to know that we are up there with the top restaurants in the town.” Chris Ioanides, owner, Chesters

Café of the Year – sponsored by CMP Legal

The Café at Libby’s

“We’re absolutely thrilled to bits to win. We make what people want to eat and our customers keep coming back. It’s a pleasure to come to work and keep serving them.” Ann Truscott and Julie Legdon, The Café at Libbys

Pub/Bar of the Year – sponsored by Addooco IT

The Tickled Trout

“It’s been a really difficult 18 months at The Tickled Trout and the team have been brilliant. Pulling together throughout the pandemic and adapting the business and supporting the community.” Rachel Cutting, The Tickled Trout

Best New Hospitality Business – sponsored by Shorts Chartered Accountants

Sicily Restaurant

“Sicily Restaurant is a family business and when people visit us, we want them to feel welcome and like they are in our home. We are not standing still; there is still room for improvement. We now plan to do fresh pasta to add to all our home made, authentic Sicilian menu.” Giuseppe Barone, Sicily Restaurant

Accessibility Award – sponsored by Spirecross Ltd

Monkey Park Café

“It feels amazing to win the award. It’s important to us to ensure people are connected and that involved delivering new services during the pandemic, like providing take away services from the café and supplying tablets and mobile phones to members of the community to help them get online and develop new skills. It means such a lot to us that Monkey Park and our services are accessible to everybody and this award is recognition of that.” Sarah Clarke, Monkey Park Community Hub

Retailer of the Year – sponsored by East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire)

Adorn Jewellers of Chesterfield

“We’re thrilled to win this award. Our success is our customers – 100%. We have a wonderful community of customers and this award is for them.” – Laura Jo Owen, owner of Adorn Jewellers

Best New High Street Business – sponsored by Chesterfield College Group

Lottie’s Sandwich Bar

“We weren’t expecting to win the award. We came to the Love Chesterfield Awards thinking that it would be an amazing experience so to win is absolutely amazing. Without our customers and community, we wouldn’t be where we are today. We work so hard for them so to get something back is just amazing. We’ll keep listening to our customers and do our best for them.”

Independent High Street Business – sponsored by Evoluted

Fred’s Haberdashery

“It feels fantastic to win the award. Fred’s is an institution in Chesterfield and we feel proud to have developed the business further using technology.  We have really enjoyed being on Twitter during The Great British Sewing Bee. It’s really made a difference to the business as more people are getting into dressmaking and coming into the shop for fabric and patterns.” Emily Lord, Fred’s Haberdashery

Sustainability Award – sponsored by Chesterfield Borough Council

Superior Wellness

“We are absolutely delighted to have won this inaugural award. Sustainability is high on the agenda at Superior Wellness and it became even more important when we moved into our new 130,000 square foot warehouse and office in March.

“Within the last few months, we have reviewed our waste strategy, purchased electric forklift trucks, installed solar panels and have electric charging points.

“This is just the start as we seek to become more sustainable as a business.  Our ten-year vision is to become carbon neutral.” Mark Needham, Head of Operations, Superior Wellness

Community Contribution – sponsored by Van Dyk by Wildes

Peak Pharmacy

“It’s really exciting to win the award. It’s been great to help Chesterfield get back to normal by delivering 30,000 vaccinations. It’s been a real team and family effort and we’re all so proud.” Tara Brown, Peak Pharmacy

Entrepreneur of the Year – sponsored by Banner Jones Solicitors

CarMats.co.uk

“During lockdown I wanted to set up a business to support local jobs. Car mats is a bit of a strange business, but everyone uses car mats and they wear out. We are now looking to expand across Europe going into Ireland first and then onto France, and all from Chesterfield.

“We’re really proud of what we’ve done with Carmats.co.uk and it’s really nice to get the recognition locally.” Ash Young, CarMats.co.uk

Apprentice of the Year – sponsored by DBC Training

Ellie Gibson – Heathcotes Group

“I am so shocked to win the award. I love working at Heathcotes and loved doing my apprenticeship. I would say to anyone who wants to do an apprenticeship just do it. I’ve really enjoyed it.” Ellie Gibson

Food Producer of the Year (within 10 miles) – sponsored by MSE Hiller

Crooked Pickle Co

Excellence in Customer Service – sponsored by Peak Pharmacy

The Therapy Lounge

Market Trader of the Year – sponsored by Chesterfield Borough Council

Ibbotson’s Fresh Quality Produce

Regeneration Award – sponsored by BHP Accountants

The Glass Yard

The 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards were supported and made possible by a number of sponsors and partners, including: Addooco IT, Banner Jones Solicitors, BHP Accountants, CMP Legal, Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield Digital High Street, The Chesterfield College Group, DBC Training, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), EntireFM – Complete Facilities Management, Evoluted, Greatest Hits Radio South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire, JP Fire Safety Solutions, MSE Hiller, Peak Pharmacy, Shorts Chartered Accountants, Spirecross Ltd and Van Dyk by Wildes.

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Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On promises fun for the whole family

Residents and visitors can get into the festive spirit as Chesterfield’s annual Christmas Lights Switch On returns for 2021.

There will be a variety of entertainers performing throughout the day and a market that will allow shoppers to grab a Christmas bargain. The event takes place on Sunday 21 November from 12 noon to early evening, with the switch on happening at 4.45pm.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The Christmas Lights Switch On is one of our most popular events attracting thousands of people each year and for many families it is a Christmas tradition.

“We’ve got lots planned this year to keep the whole family entertained throughout the day. I am delighted that it could return this year, and I hope lots of people will come along and have a great day out whilst shopping local and supporting local businesses.”

The stage show will be held in New Square and there will be a variety of different performers including choirs, dancing robots and children’s characters.

A market will run alongside this event in the Market Square and the Market Hall will be open so shoppers can start picking up presents from local businesses.

Market stalls are available to book for this event, these can be booked for £15 by visiting:  www.chesterfield.gov.uk/markettrading

The Christmas Lights Switch On is a key element of the Christmas in Chesterfield campaign which aims to encourage people to visit Chesterfield town centre and support local businesses this Christmas.

Other activities planned include the return of the Amazing Magical Santa House and Elf Trail which were very popular last year. A series of walkabout entertainers including stilt walkers, carol singers and tap-dancing turkeys. The Crooked Spire will also be hosting its Christmas Tree Festival and Beauty and the Beast pantomime will be at the Pomegranate Theatre.

More details on the entertainment schedule will be released closer to the event. Find out more at:http://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-christmas-market-and-lights-switch-on/

 

Chesterfield Christmas Market and Lights Switch on

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Chesterfield celebrates as parks and green spaces win Green Flag Award

In a record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award, as the scheme marks its Silver Jubilee, Chesterfield is celebrating retaining five awards.

Chesterfield Borough Council is raising a Green Flag Award for the 15th time at Queen’s Park, Holmebrook Valley Country Park, Poolsbrook Country Park, Eastwood Park and the gardens at Chesterfield and District Crematorium.

The award is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.

After 18 months that have seen our parks and green spaces play a vital role for people through lockdowns as a place to relax, exercise and meet friends and family safely, the news that Chesterfield has achieved these Green Flag Awards is testament to the hard work and dedication of the team that make the green space a great space that everyone can enjoy.

Councillor Jill Mannion-Brunt, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “It’s fantastic that we have maintained our Green Flag Awards in these parks and is a real testament to the hard work our teams do to maintain these spaces. Green spaces are incredibly important for our communities, they not only serve as place to spend time with friends and family they can also support both physical and mental health. I hope that we can continue to provide high quality green spaces for all our residents to enjoy.”

Green Flag Award Scheme Manager Paul Todd said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved in making these sites worthy of a Green Flag Award.

“To meet the requirements demanded by the scheme is testament to the hard work of the staff and volunteers who do so much to ensure that Chesterfield has high standards of horticulture, safety and environmental management and is a place that supports people to live healthy lives.”

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.

A full list of Green Flag Award-winning parks and green spaces is available here

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Inaugural Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k hailed a success  

The first-ever Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k has been hailed a great success by organisers, event partners and participants after more than 1,300 runners took part in the event on Sunday 17 October.

Thomas Shaw was the first to cross the 10k finish line with a time of 00:33:32 with Emma Holt the first female to finish in a time of 00:41:12

The oldest participant in the event was David Onion, aged 81, and Daniel Greatorex was the youngest at 15.

Max Taylor (10), and Sophie Bramley (12), were the winners of the City Taxi’s Fun Run, which took place within the boundaries of Queen’s Park in tandem with the main event.

Around 15 organisations also took part in the first Pronto Paints Wellbeing Challenge, a team entry into the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k’s events.

The event also helped raise thousands for good causes across the region, with £59,000 pledged for charities including main charity partners – Redbrik Community Foundation, Chesterfield-based Ashgate Hospicecare and North Anston-based Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, along with many other charities selected by the runners from across the region.

Following the event, John Timms, Event Director of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k said: “We launched the 10k event in 2020 with a view to providing a fantastic experience for both participants and the local community, and as a way of generating revenue for the event’s charity partners.

“It was truly amazing to see how many people turned out to support the event, both in Queen’s Park at the start/finish line and out on route.

“We are extremely grateful to everyone who contributed to making the event a success once more – including event partners and sponsors, and of course all those who took part.

“A special mention must go to all the volunteers who helped out on race day – who gave up their Sunday morning to help keep everything running smoothly, to assist runners and to help the general public. Without them, this event simply would not be possible, so a big thank you to everyone who helped out.

“I also want to thank anyone who was affected by the road disruptions across Chesterfield for their understanding throughout the day.

“Most importantly, however, the money raised by this event will go a long way to helping good causes like the Redbrik Community Foundation, Ashgate Hospicecare and Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, and other charities all of which do so much fantastic work in the local community.”

David Cooper, Trustee of headline sponsor the Redbrik Community Foundation and a participant in the 10k said: “We are very proud to support this event, which has so much goodwill from all involved. It has been great to give something back to the town, who have continually supported our estate agency business, Redbrik, since we opened nearly nine years ago.

“The course really showcased what a beautiful town chesterfield is and when I was running it felt like the entire town had come out to support all the runners. It was wonderful.

“We love this town and we want to see it thrive. Events such as this help to do that, with huge numbers of people coming to Chesterfield from all parts of the country to support, contribute or take part. We can’t wait until 2022 already!”

Redbrik Estate Agents and Ashgate Hospicecare support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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First homes set to be completed at new Chesterfield housing development this November

Dozens of new homes are soon set to be available on a newly-regenerated site in Chesterfield, with some properties available on the government-backed Help to Buy scheme.

Walton Peaks is a collection of 35 detached and 22 semi-detached houses for sale in the town, comprising 6 two-bedroom homes,  38 three-bedroom homes and 13 four-bedroom homes for open-market sales through Linden Homes.

The shared ownership and rented element of this development is made up of 46 further plots, of which 35 are shared ownership and 11 are rented.

The scheme involves the regeneration of a brownfield site to provide much-needed new homes, including shared-ownership and Help to Buy homes that will help first-time buyers and young families onto the housing ladder.

The development includes a play area in the development and attention to biodiversity through installation of bat boxes, swift boxes, swallow boxes and a hedgehog highway.

Houses on the development have been on sale since July 2021, with first completions expected this November. The site is expected to fully completed around Spring/Summer 2023.

Linden Homes is hosting a Help to Buy information event this Saturday and Sunday, 16th and 17th October, from 10am to 5pm which will provide people with more information about the scheme.

Andrew Handslip, Head of Sales and Marketing at Linden Homes, commented: “Chesterfield is a vibrant town with a rich heritage and excellent amenities. At the gateway to the Peak District, and with excellent transport connections, it offers an exceptional quality of life.

“We’re pleased to be regenerating brownfield land that has been derelict for a long time to create this new collection of high-quality homes for the local community, which includes shared ownership and Help to Buy homes, giving young couples and families a chance to get on the property ladder.

“We’re also proud to be working together with local schools to promote construction as a career option in the area.”

“Walton Peaks has proved to be an extremely popular development in the Chesterfield area. We currently have six homes available under the Help to Buy scheme, which are sure to attract plenty of interest from buyers.

“So, we would encourage anyone interested in purchasing a Help to Buy property at Walton Peaks to attend this event, which will be a great opportunity to find out more about Help to Buy, with financial advice provided by a representative of Meridian Mortgages.”

Find out more about local regeneration taking place across Chesterfield here.

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Road closures confirmed ahead of Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k

Organisers of this year’s Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k race have confirmed road closures for the event, which takes place this Sunday, 17th October.

The route starts and finishes in Queens Park and will be centered on the heart of Chesterfield, taking in major landmarks such as the town’s famous crooked spire. It will also feature service and cheer stations on the course and will have a later 10am start.

Runners can sign up to the City Taxis Fun Run on the day at the Race Information Point in Queens Park.

In accordance with traffic authority regulations for Derbyshire County Council, an order has been made prohibiting and restricting the use of certain roads and road junctions by vehicles in order to facilitate the safe holding of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K.

The event will require the closure of roads and road junctions, car parking restrictions as well as the suspension of a number of Traffic Regulation Orders between 07:00 until 13:00 on Sunday 17th October 2021.

A full list of closures, including approximate times, is provided below. You can find out more about the event and how you can get involved on the day at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-10k/

Chesterfield 10K Road Closures

Chesterfield 10K Parking Restrictions

Meanwhile, event organisers are set to launch the Pronto Paints Schools Wellbeing Challenge 2021 on Friday 15 October.

School children from across Chesterfield are set to take part in the event at Queen’s Park which promotes health and wellbeing among young people in our area.

Daniel Thompson, Head of Physical Education at Brookfield Community School, one of the schools taking part, said: “As a community school, when we were given the opportunity to be part of the first ever running festival to link with the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K, we did not hesitate.

“We are excited to be able to give our students the chance to participate in an event that not only challenges them, but is great for their health and well-being.  The fact that it is supporting such a worthwhile charitable event that such as the Chesterfield 10K that lots of our school community will be engaging in is even more reason to take part.  MLS have been amazing in the support they have provided and in setting up.  I can’t thank them enough.”

David Beckford, Managing Director of Pronto Paints, added: “We are very proud to sponsor this event. Anything which encourages children to focus on exercise and wellbeing is fantastic.

“In addition to this event, we are headline sponsors of the Pronto Paints Wellbeing Challenge, which is a great way for local businesses to join together and raise money for local charities.

“We are hoping to make the schools challenge an annual event and hopefully it will even bigger and better next year.”

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College to support employers following extension to the apprenticeship incentive scheme

Principal and Chief Executive of The Chesterfield College Group, Julie Richards, has welcomed the news that the Government plans to extend the apprenticeship incentive and Kickstart schemes.

Following Rishi Sunak’s announcement last week, she has pledged to continue to help and support employers in the area who wish to take advantage of the incentives available before they end in 2022.

Since the incentive schemes were announced last year, as part of the Government’s Covid recovery plans, the college has supported over 300 employers to access bonus payments of up to £4,000 to recruit almost 400 apprentices.

Speaking about how the college was best placed to help more local employers take advantage of the incentives, Julie Richards said:

“Apprenticeships have always offered a fantastic opportunity to fill skills gaps and develop people. The bonus payment is designed to help employers feel more secure in their ability to cover the cost of recruiting an apprentice. Apprenticeships provide our young people with specific opportunities to develop their skills and secure meaningful employment which supports their financial independence and prepares them for adult life and a successful career.”

“As a local college we are committed to matching the needs of employers with the skills and talents of young people. I urge employers to contact the college to understand how the scheme may work for them. Our team are experts in supporting employers to develop a programme of skills development which will have long lasting benefits both for them and the local economy.”

The experienced team are helping organisations, large and small across Derbyshire and the East Midlands, to find the best candidates for their apprenticeship vacancies. They have a talent pool of students and applicants ready to find their next step in the world of work and are supporting businesses to navigate the recruitment process to secure their new apprentice.

Matt Cryans, Director at Crytec Ltd, a company based in Clay Cross, which sells machinery for construction, forestry and manual handling, told us about his experience of recruiting his first apprentice and making the most of the incentive scheme with the support of the college.

He said: “The scheme covers a decent proportion of an apprentice’s wages so it gives you confidence to recruit. The extra funding certainly helps you to make the move to grow the team when things feel a bit uncertain. The team at college made it easy to apply for the funding and supported me through the steps of taking on an apprentice.”

Find out more about the apprenticeship bonus scheme and the support available for Kickstart here https://www.chesterfield.ac.uk/extension-to-4000-apprenticeship-incentive-and-kickstart-scheme/

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Mixed picture for East Midlands economy as growth continues amid skills and supply chain concerns

The East Midlands economy is continuing to grow in response to lockdown restrictions being eased – but there are warning signs ahead, according to the latest research by East Midlands Chamber.

The Quarterly Economic Survey for Q3 2021 by the region’s leading business representation group shows improvements across most indicators, including sales, cashflow, employment and investment intentions.

But East Midlands firms also reported issues with price pressures and access to required skills to fill job vacancies.

More than 400 businesses across Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire took part in the survey between 23 August and 14 September.

East Midlands Chamber QES Q3 2021 data

Key findings from the survey for the East Midlands* included:

  • UK sales increased for a net 37% of businesses, while advanced orders were up for a net 36%
  • Overseas business activity lagged behind domestic but remained positive, with overseas sales rising for a net 8% of businesses and advanced orders rising 6% – although the projection is down by 5% compared to the Q2 forecast
  • A net 25% of organisations increased their labour force in the previous three months, while a net 38% expect to grow it over the next three months
  • After five consecutive quarters in which cashflow had been down for the majority of firms, it has now been positive in the past two quarters, with a net 15% of businesses reporting they had more access to cash in Q3
  • Investment intentions are positive, with a net 26% expecting to spend on training people, and a net 16% on machinery and equipment
  • A net 63% of businesses are confident their turnover will improve over the coming quarter, while a net 37% believe profitability will increase
  • A net 46% of businesses said they were concerned about future price increases
  • Two-thirds (67%) of companies attempted recruitment in the previous quarter and, of these, 71% said they faced problems with hiring the right people

East Midlands Chamber director of policy and external affairs Chris Hobson said: “The top-level results show a mixed picture that hides a number of variables at play in the East Midlands economy.

“Cashflow continues to improve for more businesses than not, training investment intentions are positive and overall confidence in future turnover continues its upward trajectory.

“As the economy continues its reopening after a successful vaccine rollout, the pent-up demand that characterised much of the summer remains a positive factor.

“But there are also a few of areas of concern. Price pressures continue to come from increased raw material costs, pay settlements and, increasingly, energy costs.

“This has knock-on effects, with investment in machinery and equipment growth – an important ingredient in fuelling a recovery – falling back slightly on the previous quarter.

“Performance in overseas markets remains volatile and, while turnover confidence has grown from Q2, confidence in increased profitability has fallen back, a result of squeezed margins.

“Recruitment is also a growing problem, with over seven in 10 struggling to fill vacancies across all skills levels.”

‘There’s still much that we don’t yet fully understand’

The State of the Economy Index – a measure of the region’s economic health compiled by aggregating various indicators – reached its highest level since Q3 2018 in the previous quarter.

It again rose in Q3 2021, albeit only slightly, as other issues have arose in recent months related to supply chain issues, skills challenges and additional taxation in the form of a health and social care levy that increases the burden for both employers and employees.

“There’s still much that we don’t yet fully understand,” added Chris. “There are many factors at play in shaping current challenges for businesses – the impact of policy responses to the pandemic on the recovery, changes in individual approaches to work expectations, structural changes to supply chain operations and immigration rules as a result of Brexit, and global shortages as the whole world looks to bounce back, to name but a few.

“The balance of influence of these different factors, some which are temporary and others that may be longer term, is still being unpicked. As we learn more over the coming months, we’ll have a better idea of whether they are flies in the ointment or something more fundamental.

“There is also trepidation ahead of the 27 October Autumn Statement, where we’ll find out more about how Government plans to tackle supporting the economy over the next period and the balance between tax and spend.

“Regardless, the coming months will be instructive as to what shape the recovery will take. As we learn more about which challenges are going to be longer term, it’s important that policy responds to this appropriately and doesn’t get distracted with temporary issues the market can take care of itself.”

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Collaborative working from Chesterfield firms leads to landmark deal… and regional recognition

The success of the recent landmark buyout of Heathcotes Group by partners Civitas and Envivo Group has led to new opportunities, and awards, for the financial brains behind the deal.

The buyout, presented and managed in a unique collaboration between Chesterfield Champions Milestone Financial Planning Services and Mitchells Chartered Accountants, has led the two businesses to team up formally.

This brand-new partnership, Mitchells Corporate Agents, is already in line for their first award, being shortlisted in Sheffield City Region’s Dealmaker Awards later this week. And in the words of Milestone Financial Planning’s MD Michael Heath, this is just the beginning.

Michael said: “It’s great to be shortlisted for this award, but more than that, we’re so pleased to be taking our collaboration with Mitchells to the next level. Together, we take the time to get to know our clients so we can protect them from the complex nature of a business sale, it’s what makes Mitchells Corporate Agents so different from our large-scale competitors.“

Instruction for the sale of healthcare group Heathcotes, which has 72 healthcare facilities located across the UK, including here in Chesterfield, was first received in March 2020 as COVID-19 reached its height, with the buyout agreed by the end of 2020.

On the sale, Tony Hornsby of Mitchells Chartered Accountants said. “It has been a privilege to work with Heathcotes Group from initial incorporation, through to working alongside Milestone Financial Planning on the business sale. We are very excited regarding our collaboration with Milestone as Mitchells Corporate Agents and believe this will offer tailored solutions and guidance to owners looking for similar business exits.”

The Insider Sheffield City Regional Dealmaker Awards are being held this Thursday, 7 October at Mercure Sheffield St Paul’s Hotel and celebrate the top dealmakers in the region, recognising expertise, leadership and innovation in banking, funding, legal and accountancy.

Milestone Financial Planning, Mitchells Chartered Accountants and Heathcotes Group support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Left: Tony Hornsby, Right: Michael Heath

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Recent Strictly star set to host town’s sell-out Love Chesterfield Awards 2021

Strictly star and breakfast TV presenter Mike Bushell will be heading to Chesterfield on Wednesday 20 October.

A familiar face on weekday and Saturday morning breakfast TV, sports presenter Mike will host the town’s brand-new Love Chesterfield Awards at the Winding Wheel Theatre.

As well as presenting, Mike also holds the record for trying 560 different sports and activities, including ballroom dancing.

In 2019, he traded the TV newsroom for the ballroom and participated in Series 17 of Strictly Come Dancing where he was the seventh contestant to be eliminated.

He’ll be taking to the stage once again at the Winding Wheel Theatre later this month to announce the winners of the Love Chesterfield Awards. A total of 48 businesses and individuals have been shortlisted across 16 categories.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management, the sell-out Love Chesterfield Awards will celebrate the best of the town’s food and drink and retail businesses, entrepreneurs, regeneration projects, contribution to the local community, apprenticeships and sustainability.

Prior to moving into broadcasting in 1990, Mike was a journalist on the Derby Evening Telegraph so is familiar with Chesterfield.

Looking forward to hosting the 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards, Mike Bushell commented: “I’ve always loved coming to Chesterfield and the beautiful Derbyshire Dales and countryside around. The Spire, the old market town charm and the football club which I came to for a live BBC Breakfast broadcast in 2020 as football was trying to cope with the pandemic. I worked on the Derby Evening Telegraph in my early journalism days and so got to know the area well and am very excited about celebrating the success and champions in this gem of a town.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield added: “We’re looking forward to welcoming Mike to Chesterfield. We’re all delighted to have been able to secure such a high profile presenter for the awards. It only adds to the excitement of holding our first in person awards in two years.”

Peter Currey, Managing Director at Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management added: “It’s been great to be involved with the run up to the Love Chesterfield Awards. It will be brilliant to see so many local businesses getting recognition for their hard work and effort that is put into delivering their products and services.”

See the full list of 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards finalists here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/finalists/

The 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards are supported and made possible by a number of sponsors and partners, including: Addooco IT, Banner Jones Solicitors, BHP Accountants, Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield Digital High Street, CMP Legal, The Chesterfield College Group, DBC Training, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management, Evoluted, Greatest Hits Radio South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire, Hoods Florist, JP Fire Safety Solutions, MSE Hiller, Peak Pharmacy, Reflections Magazine, Shorts Chartered Accountants, Spirecross Ltd and Van Dyk by Wildes.

For all the information on the 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards, please visit here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/

Love Chesterfield Awards

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