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Dates announced for annual Chesterfield Festival of Cricket

Derbyshire County Cricket Club has released its fixtures for the upcoming season, with the team set to return to Chesterfield’s iconic Queen’s Park this Summer.

The BRM Solicitors Chesterfield Festival of Cricket, in association with Chesterfield Borough Council, returns with Derbyshire Falcons facing Yorkshire Vikings at Queen’s Park on Saturday 18 June, while the LV= County Championship fixture against Middlesex will also be hosted under the spire, from Sunday 12 June.

Derbyshire are set to begin their season at the ‘Home of Cricket’ on Thursday, 7th April when they travel to Lord’s to take on Middlesex in the LV County Championship.

New Head of Cricket, Mickey Arthur, will take charge of his first fixture against Middlesex, with games against Sussex (H), Leicestershire (A), Glamorgan (H), Worcestershire (H) and Nottinghamshire (A) all lined up for the opening two months of the season.

The club’s return to Chesterfield in 2022 was confirmed last Summer, when it was announced the annual Festival of Cricket was secured for at least the next five years following a deal between Derbyshire County Cricket Club and Chesterfield Borough Council.

Speaking at the time of the announcement last August, Derbyshire County Cricket Club Chairman, Ian Morgan, said: “As a Club, we are committed to continuing our longstanding relationship with Queen’s Park and Chesterfield Borough Council.

“The Chesterfield Festival of Cricket always brings together a huge number of people from across the region and Queen’s Park is a much-loved and popular venue, making the fixtures a highlight of the season for supporters from across the county.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council commented: “I’m delighted that we have been able to agree a new deal with Derbyshire County Cricket Club. It is great news for the town and borough that our residents will be able to see the stars of first-class county cricket perform at Queen’s Park cricket ground for another five years.”

Read more about the announcement here. To view the full list of Derbyshrie fixtures for the 2022 season, go to: www.derbyshireccc.com.

Derbyshire County Cricket Club supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Chesterfield Festival of Cricket Image David Griffin

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

Grants available for Chesterfield businesses affected by Covid-19 Omicron variant

Businesses trading in Chesterfield’s hospitality, leisure and accommodation sectors which have been affected by the Omicron variant of Covid-19 are being encouraged to apply for a support grant.

The Omicron Hospitality and Leisure Grant provides grants from £2,667 up to £6,000 to support local businesses impacted by the pandemic.

Applications for funding are now open, and will close on 11 February 2022. A business will be eligible for the grant if:

  • it was registered for Business Rates on 30 December 2021
  • it was trading on 30 December 2021
  • it is one of the hospitality, leisure or accommodation business types that are eligible for this payment (some exclusions do apply as per the BEIS guidance)

Businesses that may qualify for this grant are being contacted by Chesterfield Borough Council’s business grants team directly. However, if you think you are eligible and have not been in touch with anyone from the council about this yet, you can complete the application form here.

A business will not be entitled to a payment if it has entered into administration or insolvency or has exceeded the permitted Business Grant Subsidy Allowance.

Only the Business Rates payer at 30 December 2021 is entitled to claim this payment.

If you are eligible to receive a grant payment, you will receive this within seven days of your application being assessed and no later than 28 February 2022.

Meanwhile, the Government has also recently announced a new Covid-19 Additional Relief Fund (CARF) and published guidance on the operation of the fund and details of the funding allocation for each local authority.

Chesterfield Borough Council is in the process of drafting the scheme ready to publish on its website during January 2022. Businesses are encouraged to keep checking Chesterfield Borough Council’s website and social media for further updates.

Find out more about the COVID-19 Additional Relief Fund.

To find out more about some of the other business support available for companies in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

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Made in Chesterfield praised by businesses, schools and pupils

An impact report has revealed that nearly 200 students from North East Derbyshire’s schools got a hands-on taste of manufacturing and engineering careers during the Made in Chesterfield festival in November last year.

Businesses, teachers and pupils have all praised the Made in Chesterfield initiative.

Nick McGowan, assistant headteacher a teacher at Whittington Green School which visited Woodhead Construction’s enterprise centre site, said: “We’ve been teaching construction in the school for the last 15 years and one thing we have always struggled with is access to site so the visit was absolutely brilliant. The visit opened the student’s horizons to the jobs and opportunities within the construction sector.”

In a review of the month-long annual festival undertaken by Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP) which coordinated Made in Chesterfield in conjunction with Destination Chesterfield, it also found that there was no demand for virtual school visits, indicating that schools are keen to re-engage face-to-face with the business community despite the pandemic.

Ivan Fomin, Managing Director of MSE Hiller and Destination Chesterfield’s board member responsible for manufacturing and engineering in the borough, said: “The uptake of the physical workplace tours by schools for Made in Chesterfield was very encouraging given the current climate of uncertainty. There is a very real appetite amongst schools to give young people the widest exposure to careers and job opportunities.”

He added: “It is so important that we highlight the local career and job opportunities to young people as they are an intrinsic part of Chesterfield’s growth ambitions.”

Virtual workplace tours were launched last year amidst the pandemic, however with Covid restrictions eased physical workplace tours were reintroduced for 2021.

Pupils from Whittington Green School, Springwell Community College, St Mary’s Catholic High School, The Bolsover School, Shirebrook Academy and Heritage Academy all took part in visits to local engineering and manufacturing businesses, including Aztec Oils, Woodhead Construction, CBE+, Penny Hydraulics, Superior Wellness, Morgan Sindall, Weightron Bilanciai, MSE Hiller and United Cast Bar.

Carol Claydon, Head of HR at Superior Wellness which hosted students from Springwell Community College, said: “The tour organised by Made in Chesterfield was a fantastic opportunity for our business. Our team members thoroughly enjoyed explaining more about the business, their roles and their work experience to the students. It was brilliant to see how inspired the students were and I think it opened their eyes to the various career opportunities within the local area.

“The campaign is a fantastic way to inspire the next generation and hopefully showcase the different sectors and opportunities available within the town of Chesterfield.”

Ben Jones, Project Manager at Weightron Bilanciai which hosted students from Bolsover School added: “Hopefully we have inspired young people to be interested in what they want to do as a career so they can start thinking ahead now to what they should be studying and also whether they want to go to university or follow the apprenticeship route.”

Charlie Goodwin, Projects Officer at DEBP who compiled the report commented: “We are so grateful to the many businesses who got involved with Made in Chesterfield and worked with us to make it a success in 2021. We appreciate that everyone continues to experience challenging times, however the feedback from those who participated has demonstrated the value in providing meaningful insights into the working world and the role this initiative has in inspiring future employees.”

Launched originally in 2013, the annual Made in Chesterfield campaign, has since introduced thousands of young people across North East Derbyshire to the possibility of a career in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) sector.

The hands-on campaign aims to bridge the careers information gap between education and industry by giving schools and pupils access to workplace tours, a range of careers videos and the MyFuture virtual careers fair.

Made in Chesterfield 2021 was made possible thanks to funding and support from The Chesterfield College Group, Chesterfield Borough Council, D2N2 LEP and Careers and Enterprise Company, Derbyshire North Career Hub, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd and NatWest.

Emily Carter, Operational Careers Hub Lead at D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership added: “We are ever grateful to our cornerstone employers and local business partners for supporting opportunities such as the Made in Chesterfield open doors programmes, supporting young people’s career awareness and aspirations, again this year despite the challenges still faced by industry.

“D2N2 Careers Hub is excited to fund the expansion of this successful model to bring more open doors programmes to young people across the wider D2N2 region during the rest of the 2021-22 academic year.”

Julie Richards, Principal and Chief Executive of the Chesterfield College Group said: “I am delighted to hear that once again the Made in Chesterfield initiative has been a great success. We are proud to support the programme of activities which take place to connect the future workforce with local employers. It is very encouraging to hear how so many schools and employers benefited. It is critical we excite and educate the next generation to understand the fantastic career opportunities for engineering and manufacturing in Chesterfield to build the workforce for the future and secure local economic growth.”

A number of the businesses involved in the Made in Chesterfield campaign are keen to continue to work with schools throughout the year. If your school would like to arrange a workplace visit, please contact DEBP on 01246 212 535.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , ,

SDE Electrical & CCG join forces to offer a one stop shop for all EV requirements

Chesterfield-based SDE Electrical has agreed a nationwide partnership with Car Charge Go to support domestic and commercial customers converting to electric vehicles.

The number of EV vehicles in the last 12 months has increased by 67%, whereas sales in petrol and diesel vehicles have fallen significantly. Battery EV uptake has doubled, but the new car market remains well adrift of pre-pandemic levels.

SDE Group says that while the demand for Electric Vehicles is at an all time high, the EV charging and infrastructure network does not currently support the uptake. The announcement of this strategic partnership will help support the gap by offering customers a complete end-to-end solution for all EV needs.

Both SDE & CCG have both secured nationwide contracts in their own fields with global companies, with SDE being a commercial EV specialist and CCG specialising in the domestic market.

Furthermore, SDE has successfully secured a contract with Gridserve for the rollout of new rapid chargers. The contract is for both installation and maintenance across the electrical highway (motor services, Ikea stores etc.) from Lands End to John o’ Groats.

This contract is set to help increase the EV infrastructure across the UK. Car Charge Go will support SDE by providing administration & technical support.

Jonathan Bennett, Managing Director of SDE Group commented: “The change in behaviors in consumers and businesses looking to convert to electric is phenomenal when you look at the numbers.

“Along with the environmental benefits and financial savings attached, key policy changes set by government and events such as COP 26 have helped create this uptake, therefore this partnership is critical to support all our customers and aid the transformation for consumer and businesses. We are looking forward to working with Kate and the team at CCG.”

SDE Group supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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Thinking of launching a new business in 2022? Here’s why Chesterfield is the perfect place to start

Have you been thinking about a career change lately? Maybe you’ve always dreamed of starting your own business and following your passion.

Well there’s no better time than now to make those dreams a reality, and here in Chesterfield there’s a wide array of support available to kickstart your new business.

Find out below about what’s on offer to help you start the ball rolling, and why 2022 could be the year you become your own boss!

Vision Derbyshire business start-up support scheme

driving business success

In light of the difficulties faced by businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Vision Derbyshire initiative was set up to help would-be entrepreneurs based in Derbyshire get their businesses up and running, to help create jobs and keep the local economy thriving.

A team of local expert business advisors are in place to offer free advice and support and funding of up to £10,000 per applicant is also available as part of the scheme.

More Information

D2N2 Business Starter Programme

If you’re looking for somewhere to start, but aren’t quite sure how to get a new business set up, D2N2’s Business Starter Programme is a great place to begin.

It’s a dynamic project helping people in communities throughout Derbyshire to start their own business through a programme of themed workshops and one-to-one support.

The scheme has successfully supported over 190 businesses to start and thrive in Derbyshire, and your’s could be next!

More Information

D2N2 Growth Hub

The good news is that the support on offer doesn’t just help you with getting started, there are a number of schemes in place to help you along your business journey as you continue to grow.

The D2N2 Growth Hub provides businesses in our region with a single point of access to business support.

The team of Growth Hub Business Advisers and a dedicated telephone enquiry service have the knowledge, skills and expertise to signpost you to the right initiatives and resources to support your business growth.

More Information

Chesterfield Digital High Street

If you’re setting up a new company in the modern age, it will be important to ensure your business is as visible and resilient as possible.

That’s where the Chesterfield Digital High Street scheme comes in. Support and funding is available to help you set up a fully search engine optimised e-commerce website.

Alongside this, a team of expert advisors will be able to signpost you to a number of great new ways to attract customers and sell goods, both in-person and online!

More Information

Chesterfield Innovation Support Programme

Chesterfield’s Innovation Support Programme (Chesterfield Borough Council) is a project which aims to increase the level of support available to businesses in the Chesterfield area.

The project has been set up to offer a variety of funded support which includes:

  • one-to-one business reviews
  • workshops, seminars and networking events
  • access to specialist innovation advisers
  • support to identify potential funding choices

For further information on the Innovation Support Programme, contact Adrian Williamson, Innovation Support Project Manager at: adrian.williamson@chesterfield.gov.uk

Great workspaces available to suit your every need

Dunston Innovation Centre - Business Chesterfield

Another benefit of setting up your business here in Chesterfield is the ability to get your hands on quality, affordable office space to suit all budgets and requirements.

Here’s a list of some of the places you may want to look into:

  • Dunston and Tapton Innovation Centres – Chesterfield Innovation Centres are designed to assist small to medium sized businesses to successfully innovate and grow. They can offer you professional help in a friendly atmosphere.
  • Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre – This brand-new development is due for completion in early 2022 and will provide modern office space for start-up and medium sized businesses on the site of Holywell Cross (Donut) car park, right in the middle of town.
  • West Studios – West Studios’ main aim has always been supporting SME growth within the creative sector and within Chesterfield. Situated on the Chesterfield College campus, the building has a range of shared studio spaces and offers a virtual office service too.
  • Great 2 – Great2 supports local entrepreneurs and growing small businesses across Derbyshire. The company also offers business operations and marketing support services to help owners scale up.
  • Monkey Park- This community organisation thinks about workspaces differently, and provides a great place to work with none of the strings like leases attached.
  • Loundsley Green– Alongside providing affordable office space, the Loundsley Green Enterprise Centre is able to provide 1-to-1 enterprise coaching to people considering starting their own business and working for themselves.

If there’s nothing on the above list that suits your needs, there’s no need to worry! Chesterfield Borough Council’s expert economic development team can run a property search and help you find the perfect location.

Contact the team on 01246 345255 or email: economic.development@chesterfield.gov.uk Or find out more about commercial property in Chesterfield here.

Join Chesterfield Champions and become a part of the local business community

Champions breakfast Ringwood Hall

If you are growing your organisation in Chesterfield or North Derbyshire and are looking for marketing and business support, Chesterfield Champions is a great way to get your name out there locally.

For a small annual contribution towards the wider marketing of the town, the initiative can help you build relationships with likeminded organisations and keep up to date with local news and developments.

There are a range of opportunities for Chesterfield Champions from senior networking events and priority invitations including consultation events to media opportunities and a profile on the Chesterfield business directory.

More Information

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Employability and Skills Conference to address future skills needs of young people to help the area meet its growth ambitions

With thousands of jobs set to be created in the borough as part of the regeneration of Staveley, business leaders and the education community are being urged to address the future employability and skills of young people now at a free conference next month.

Tickets are available now for the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference which is organised by Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield, with support from D2N2 North Derbyshire Careers Hub.

The conference, which returns in person for the first time since Covid hit, is taking place on Wednesday 9 February at Speedwell Rooms in Staveley, between 8:00am – 11:00am.

The annual conference, which is now in its sixth year, aims to strengthen links between education providers and local businesses to ensure that school leavers are work ready and have the skills required by businesses in the area.

This year the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference will address the future skills and green growth agenda and also examine the current recruitment challenges that employers face.

Speakers at the event will include Ivan Fomin, Chair of Staveley Town Deal and Fiona Baker, Head of People and Skills at D2N2 LEP and Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield.

Ivan Fomin commented: “The regeneration programme in Staveley is very exciting and has the potential to create thousands of jobs. It’s important that businesses, the council and education and training providers work together to make sure these opportunities are fully realised for local people. The Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Employability & Skills Conference is the first step in making this happen.”

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “I’m proud to be hosting the sixth annual skills and employability conference. This event is important because it helps strengthen the links between business and education, which ensures that young people in our borough can develop the skills local employers need. This year the conference also looks ahead to the skills needed to support green growth in Chesterfield, which is vital to helping meet our climate change commitments. We all need to work together to ensure that young people have a bright future in our borough and that they are developing the skills needed for the future.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield added: “We’re delighted to be able to hold the conference in person once again. The last 19 months have been particularly difficult for both education and business. It has never been more important for these sectors to work together to ensure Chesterfield has the right skills to grow and recover from the challenges of Covid.

“There are so many exciting regeneration projects in the town, including Chesterfield Waterside, Northern Gateway and PEAK, and a lot of opportunities for young people. It’s crucial to ensure we nurture local talent and provide the right training to bridge those gaps and enable people and businesses in the borough to thrive.”

A number of local skills providers based in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire will also be showcased in an exhibition at the event.

Places at the free conference are limited. To book your free place at the event, please visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-north-derbyshire-employability-skills-conference/.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , ,

Twist magazine goes from strength-to-strength with more than 15,000 copies delivered each month

Local magazine Twist, which focuses on all things Chesterfield has the largest distribution of any magazine in the town, with 15,500 copies of the Heron Publications title carefully delivered to local homes and businesses each month.

Professional, experienced journalists keep readers entertained with lively features and positive Chesterfield news stories, backed up by striking images and eye-catching presentation. The launch of the title in September 2010 coincided with the setting up of the Chesterfield Champions network and Twist was delighted to become one of the scheme’s first member companies.

Editor Mike Firth began his career as a journalist in Chesterfield more than 40 years ago, working as sports editor at the Derbyshire Times before going on to edit the Chesterfield Gazette and Chesterfield Express newspapers when they were independently run.

Says Mike: “Chesterfield has always been an enjoyable place to work but now it has really blossomed into a vibrant town with so much going for it. If you want proof, you need only look at completed developments like the Casa Hotel, the Technique Stadium and the Vicar Lane shopping area – and then cast your mind back to how those same sites looked a few years ago.

“Now we have a new wave of other exciting developments throughout the town which will take Chesterfield into an exciting new era.”

Mike, who has lived in north Derbyshire almost all his life, was delighted to return to Chesterfield to set up Twist and he says the magazine is eagerly looked forward to each and every month.

“Readers appreciate the fact that we concentrate on all the positive things that are going on in town and they like the way we present our features in such a bright and breezy manner,” he says.

“They are happy to see Twist land on their doorstep each month and, because people pick it up and read it, advertisers are also delighted with the response they get; that is why many of them feature in our pages every month.”

Twist is delivered free of charge by the company’s own distribution team to homes and businesses in Sheepbridge, Dunston, Whittington Moor, Newbold, Ashgate, Brockwell, Brampton, Ashgate Heights, Old Brampton, Brookside, Waterside, the town centre and beyond. Because Twist is a community publication, all homes in the chosen distribution area receive the magazine – the publishers don’t pick and choose according to council tax bands or how many cars people may have parked in their driveways.

Twist’s professional advertising sales team and design studio staff are delighted to work with Chesterfield companies, both large and small, to help them promote their goods and services in the magazine’s colourful pages.

Twist may well be special, but it is not alone; it is one of a series of magazines published by family-run Heron Publications whose office is just up the road in Dronfield. The company also produces ‘Dronfield Eye’ which is the only publication distributed throughout the S18 area, ‘Wings’ in Wingerworth, Ashover and Tupton, ‘So Bolsover’ across the M1 and ‘Active8’ in the south of Sheffield. Together, they add up to a total circulation of 57,000 quality free local magazines.

An added bonus with Twist is the fact that it is printed right here in Derbyshire by award-winning Buxton Press, a business which has won several prestigious environmental awards.

Twist Magazine supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

Chesterfield Escape Rooms among the best in the UK according to Tripadvisor

Chesterfield Escape Rooms is celebrating success as the attraction has been listed among the top 10 best escape room attractions in the UK, according to reviews website TripAdvisor.

The business has shot up the rankings since its opening in Summer 2021, following hundreds of positive reviews on the site. At the time of writing, the escape room sits at number 5 in the UK rankings. You can see the list here.

Expressing his delight at the news, owner Nick Hogan said: “Living and working in a small town that encourages visitors, customer’s feedback and word of mouth referrals are so important. Trip advisor is also a huge area of interest for visitors to assess what to do when visiting the area so this was a key focus from Day 1.

“The team have been brilliant in ensuring that customers are made aware of our objective to be a top ranked Escape Room and its only with their help and support in providing on line feedback we have managed to achieve our goal. The team have to ensure they deliver a quality product every time and they have achieved that!

Nick also added that the ranking on TripAdvisor is positive news for the town as a whole, adding to Chesterfield’s visitor economy offer: “We can tell from our booking system that approximately 35-40% of our players are from outside of Chesterfield, with a growing number travelling in from Nottingham, Sheffield, Derby and even further afield! These players are using the Escape Rooms as one of the things to do in Chesterfield but then go onto to increase spend elsewhere in the local vicinity.

“There are 790 different locations offering over 2500 Escape Rooms in the UK so we are overwhelmed with the success to date. It was a real pinch yourself moment when we got into the top 5 as our target was to be a top 50 venue.

“Our next target is to consolidate our top 5 position and then try and build on it. We have a new game going into construction in February / March ready for Easter so with further support from our customers, we maybe be able to go a little higher. The visitor economy is so important to the town so the more attractions we get the better and we are delighted to be able to help out.”

Two other business have also opened in and around the Escape Rooms. Chesterfield Virtual Reality offers an arcade approach to Virtual Reality (for up to 4 players) and also offers VR Escape Rooms. Game Zone has also opened on the town, providing a mix of retro and modern day gaming in a social environment.

Those businesses, combined with the existing Geeks Headquarters on Soresby Street are coming together to offer varying solutions to the entertainment portfolio of the town in one place, all under the banner of Chesterfield Games quarter.

To find out more about the range of attractions in the Chesterfield Games Quarter, visit: www.chesterfieldgamesquarter.co.uk

Chesterfield Escape Rooms supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Chesterfield Champions reflect on 2021 and look ahead to the new year

As we enter the festive season and the new year, Chesterfield Champions have been sharing their successes and reflecting on the challenges and progress made throughout 2021.

If you love Chesterfield and would like to chat about becoming a Champion, find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/destination-chesterfield/champions/

Find out what local businesses and organisations had to say below, as we head into 2022.

Rod Auton, Chesterfield Canal Trust

“It’s weird to think nothing happened for the first four or five months of the year, but we adapted wonderfully.  This resulted in our trip boats and our Information Centre & Shop both being really busy; and more than 1,000 seats booked on our Chesterfield Santa Special cruises.

“The restrictions have made people explore their own town more and discover how great it is, including the canal where towpath use has gone up hugely. We are now looking forward to the final Government approval of the Staveley Town Deal next spring, receiving the money and starting detailed planning of the restoration of our beautiful canal. We are also working out our carbon footprint as a first step towards becoming a carbon net-zero organisation.”

Amy Revell, We Are Spaces

“I have been super impressed with how resilient and positive the Chesterfield business community is. Everyone is supporting one another and are super ambitious for the future. Chesterfield has performed strongly against all the national statistics in relation to unemployment and job creation, especially for under 25s, which is fantastic news.

“I am hoping the risk and consequences of COVID reduces as we move into 2022. It’s been a tough few years for many, but I know we will continue to be resilient, push innovation and draw new investment into our fantastic town of Chesterfield!”

Howard Freeman, Shorts Chartered Accountants

“2021 was yet another challenging year for the region’s businesses, with many continuing to show resilience and diversification. I’m proud of the way our region has pulled together and facilitated new opportunities, with many businesses going from strength to strength. We’re looking forward to 2022 when we hope to see even more of a return to the normality, that we all recognise.”

Nick Hogan, Chesterfield Escape Rooms

“After opening on 17th May 2021, we have had over 5000 players through our doors, and this has given me the confidence to expand the business and create a fourth room.  I am really excited about the new Chesterfield Games Quarter which will service all of the gaming needs of the town.”

Fiaz Sadiq, ActionCoach

“We’ve celebrated a number of successes in 2021, not least doubling our team members and clients. I have been really impressed with the resilience of the Chesterfield community and it wanting to help each other. I hope in 2022 that there is more financial support for local business and supporting wellbeing in the community.”

Joe Cattee, Director, Peak Pharmacy

“The challenges we’ve faced this last year have been extraordinary. We’ve had to adapt our pharmacies, depots and offices to ensure that they are as Covid compliant as possible, whilst juggling staff shortages due to positive tests results. Despite this we have managed to administer nearly 50,000 Covid jabs to date, as well as provide 48,000 flu vaccinations.

“Our staff have been fantastic during this whole process. Looking to 2022, we are looking to really invest in the area next year, relocating our sites into one depot. This will support our ambition to be as sustainable as possible and being as carbon neutral as possible over the next decade.”

Richard Fowler, Technical Sales and Account Manager, Ra Information Systems

“Having worked alongside our customers for over two decades we have seen technology play a pivotal role in enabling business success and continuity. We have worked closely with our customers throughout 2021, supporting them to adjust to changing demands. We were delighted that our proactive approach to product development was recognised when we won the Flexible Space Association award in Technology Innovation 2021.”

Chris Sellars, Managing Director, Bridge Help

“2021 saw Bridge Help undergo a rebrand, a recruitment drive and a move to larger premises which we have already outgrown. It’s been a year of sustained growth which is showing no signs of slowing down and which means we’ll shortly be moving to larger offices. It’s not just at Bridge Help where I see growth.

“Chesterfield has always had a resilient business community and I continue to be impressed at how businesses have adapted and evolved to both survive and thrive throughout Covid and Brexit. Bridge Help is very proud to be part of the community. The team and I are looking forward to working closely with more local businesses, sports clubs and charities in 2022. Exciting times are ahead.”

Tom Swallow, Development Manager, Bolsterstone Group PLC

“2021 has been a formative year for Chesterfield Waterside. Works continues apace on the Waterside Quarter with Avant Homes with excellent sales progress. Construction of the office block also continues to progress and we are now close to completion. Despite the challenges of Covid, I have been particularly impressed by the resilience of the contractors at Waterside and the continued progress of other exciting schemes across the borough.

“The amount of progress we are now seeing is testament to the investment confidence in the town, Chesterfield Borough Council and their forward-thinking vision. Our office at Waterside, One Waterside Place, will welcome its first tenants next year – that is an office party I am very much looking forward to!

Anna Melton, Director, In the Works PR

Anna Melton - In The Works PR

“The end of year COVID restrictions, while a disappointment, must not overshadow the successes of the town and its businesses. I am very fortunate to work with a number of businesses and projects in the town and I have been so impressed how, uncomplainingly, they have adapted quickly to the ever-changing COVID landscape throughout 2021.

“Their resilience, can-do attitude and forward-thinking makes me very proud to be part of the business community in Chesterfield and I am filled with hope and enthusiasm for 2022.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council

“It’s been an incredibly challenging year for everyone in our community, but I am deeply proud of the spirit and resilience that has shone through from Chesterfield people and businesses – pulling together to help one another.

“While the pandemic is not over yet, 2022 brings hope and our borough has a bright future. Our ambitious investment and regeneration projects mean we’re in a strong place to recover from the impact of the pandemic at a faster rate than many other towns. We will continue to work closely with the community to make sure Chesterfield remains a thriving borough.”

Peter Swallow, Chair, Destination Chesterfield

“2021 has been a year of change and adaptation which has seen the town’s drive, commitment and community spirit come to the fore. As we continue to navigate through one of the most testing periods in recent history we have shown, once again that Chesterfield is resilient and forward thinking.

“New developments have come out of the ground and plans are in place for a further £1billion of developments across the borough. This will bring employment and opportunity to local people, not just in 2022 but far beyond that. Exciting times are ahead for Chesterfield – it is a town, and community, which I am proud to be part of.”

Hannah Bowdler, Junction Arts

“Junction Arts’ main aim for 2021 has been to bring our communities back together again. It has been a year of returning to face-to-face workshops and support within our communities helping people to feel confident and give them something to look forward to. A highlight has been bringing back one of our largest annual events back to the Chesterfield Canal: The Tapton Lock Festival.  And this year was our busiest yet! We were so proud this festival enabled people to reclaim the canal as a space to use and enjoy together at a local event.”

Sarah Temperton, Chief Executive, NLT Training Services

 

“What a year it has been. Like all training providers we have juggled the ever-changing COVID regulations to ensure people can access the training they need to do their jobs properly and safely. It has also opened our eyes to a gap in training provision; older people in particular who find themselves out of work. Looking to 2022, NLT is drawing on its charitable roots and will be working with a number of grass roots charities and groups in the area to ensure that free training is available to help people get work-ready. The team and I are very excited by the prospect.”

Charlotte Watson, Interior Designer, SDE Group

“As always, SDE Group have continued to look at ways in which we can expand. Our latest highlight is the launch of SDE Electrical where we have responded to the continued growth in the electric vehicles market and introduced our EV Charging service. Our 3D Design team have grown due to the increase in demand for 3D design and visualisations, welcoming university graduates to develop their career within interior and industrial design. We are looking forward to another successful year in 2022!”

Rebecca Priest, JP Fire Safety

“As we come to the end of what was meant to be a more positive year, we count ourselves thankful that we have continued to see consistent growth. With an increased workforce and the lease signed on new offices on Beresford Way, 2022 looks set to be another successful year for JP Fire Safety Solutions. By continuing to adapt and develop different ways of working we look forward to a healthy and prosperous 2022.”

Julie Richards, Principal and CEO of Chesterfield College Group

“The sheer determination and willingness of so many local people and organisations to support our students and apprentices to achieve has impressed me this year. I am forever grateful to teaching and support staff of the college for the work they do every day. I must also thank employers for creating so many work experience opportunities this year.

“We have excellent partnerships with employers who are as committed as we are to ensure they have a workforce for the future. I am looking forward to developing even stronger partnerships with employers and exploring more innovative ways to help businesses and individuals bounce back from the effects of the pandemic or take advantage of new opportunities it might have created.”

James Pogson, Director, Northern Tea Merchants

Northern Tea Merchants

“I think we all thought 2021 was going to be a breeze compared to 2020 but in many ways it’s been harder, with even greater uncertainties… Having said that 2021 has still seen huge strides being made by Northern Tea Merchants in our sustainability journey and is something we are really proud of.

“I am delighted to share that ALL our teabags are now made with fully biodegradable teabag paper, and we are working hard on our journey to become carbon neutral and as part of this, we are now planting a tree for every web order placed. We have exciting plans for 2022 which we know many of our tea and coffee devotees are going to really love.”

Theresa Goldsmith, Owner, The Goldsmith Clinic

 

“Another year amidst a global pandemic has been a whirlwind for sure! As a close contact business and a registered nurse practitioner, my main aim is to keep our patients safe and well and we have certainly been kept on our toes with the ever-changing COVID regulations. However, we have managed to grow exponentially in 2021 introducing ground-breaking treatments to The Goldsmith Clinic.

“We are finishing the year on a high by adding another two treatment rooms and taking on a full-time beauty therapist that will appeal to a new customer base for us. The entire team are very much looking forward to 2022 and sharing our passion for skin health with the good people of Chesterfield.”

Neil Johnson, Managing Director, DBCP

“It has been so encouraging to see development projects progressing in 2021 despite COVID restrictions, not only in Chesterfield but throughout Derbyshire bringing real benefits to the local economy. The team at DBCP has been phenomenally busy all year prompting the creation of a number of new jobs.

“And there are no signs of slowing down in 2022, which is a direct reflection of the town’s resilience and can-do approach. Planning for the future demands of DBCP, building control and the town, next year will see us recruit two degree apprentices. The prospect of developing the career of school leavers here in the town is something the team and I are very much looking forward to. Chesterfield really is a town of opportunity.”

Izabella Edwards, Managing Director, Edwards Employment Solutions

“2021 has been another colossal year for many industries and people and, it seems, is not going to end quietly. Despite the pandemic, we have experienced two busy and successful years, helping many key worker industries to find the staff they need. We are also ending the year on a high, having just recruited three new team members – an apprentice and two people via the Kickstart scheme.

“We are committed to giving them the help and support they need to really enjoy and succeed in the industry during the programmes, but more than that, helping them to progress here at Edwards. We are really looking forward to 2022 and helping many more local businesses and people find the staff and jobs they need.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

The Chesterfield venues seeing in 2022 in style

Chesterfield’s best restaurants, hotels and hospitality venues will be making sure people across North Derbyshire can see in the new year with their loved ones at the end of 2021.

There’s no better time than a New Year’s Eve party than to come together and celebrate the achievements of the last year, while looking ahead to what 2022 will bring.

We’ve compiled a list of just some of the venues hosting celebrations in our area, so you can be sure to finish off the festive season with a bang!

Don’t forget there’s still time to get your Christmas shopping done here in Chesterfield. For great gift ideas, delicious food and drink, and fun festive activities and events, head over to our Christmas In Chesterfield Page!

(All the listings below are subject to availability. Book early to avoid disappointment. Listings may change depending on Covid-19 protocols. Contact the venues for more information.)

Van Dyk

new year

Welcome In The New Year at Van Dyk by Wildes, with options to suit different tastes and budgets…

Garden Ballroom

Black Tie Dinner with Live Entertainment – £115 per person
It’s the biggest night of the year, so welcome 2022 in style. Enjoy a black tie dinner with live music!

The Chapel

7 Course Meal and Live Pianist – £85 per person
If sophisticated and intimate is more your preference, then New Years Eve in the Chapel restaurant is the perfect location to relax and enjoy a 7 course meal with a live pianist.

Sherwood Suite

Disco & Meal – £59 per person
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a Dinner & Disco. A fantastic night out with a 3 course plated meal. A brilliant night to see in the new year with family and friends.

Call the reservations team on 01246 387 386 or email: guest.services@vandykbywildes.co.uk

More info: https://www.vandykbywildes.co.uk/festive-dining

Ringwood Hall

New Years Eve Masked Ball

Dress Code Strictly Black Tie – £105.00 per person

Hosted by a resident DJ and complemented with amazing table magic by Ringwood’s close hand magician, this event is not to be missed!

  • Kir Royale and canapes at 7.00pm. Dinner at 7.45pm prompt.
  • Bar available until 1.30am with bacon butties served at 1.30am, Disco concludes at 2.00am. Carriages at 2.15am
  • New Year Residential Package and Spa packages also available.

Contact on – 01246 280077 or Email: Sales@ringwoodhallhotel.com

More info: https://ringwoodhallhotel.com/christmas/

Chesterfield FC

Proact Stadium - DT Business Awards

New Year’s Eve Party 2021

Join the Spireites for a New Year’s Eve party with a great night of entertainment from The Soul Sensation. Saying “Goodbye 2020, hello 2021” in style!

Includes:

  • Prosecco reception, with luxury canapes at 7pm
  • Exquisite five-course banquet, served at 7:30pm
  • Live entertainment from The Soul Sensation
  • Resident DJ
  • Bar closes at 1:30am and the function ends at 2am
  • Dress Code: Black Tie, Cocktail Dresses and Dancing Shoes!
  • £75 per person

Email: events@chesterfield-fc.co.uk

More info: https://tickets.chesterfield-fc.co.uk/en-GB/categories/Events

Casa Hotel

Casa Hotel has a number of options available for dining and parties on New Year’s Eve, including the luxurious Barcelona Suite, and the stylish Barca Bar

New Year’s Eve Dining Experience
Friday 31st December / 6pm – 10pm – £70 per person
Indulge in a luxurious 3 course meal with a glass of chilled Champagne on arrival.

New Year’s Eve in the Barcelona Suite
Friday 31st December / 7pm – £100 per person

More info: https://www.casahotels.co.uk/

Peak Edge Hotel

Spice Girls Tribute Peak Edge Hotel

New year’s eve at The Red Lion

  • £70 per person

Join the team at The Red Lion to round off the old and welcome in the new. The indulgent New Year’s Eve menu is the perfect way to celebrate with your family and friends in a stylish yet cosy setting.

New year’s eve in The Ashover Suite

  • £100 per person

Enjoy a night of pure luxury with Champagne and canapés welcoming you on arrival at 7pm, followed by a delicious four-course meal and live entertainment. The resident DJ will continue the party to welcome you into 2022.
Dress code: Dress to impress (no jeans or trainers)

More info: https://www.peakedgehotel.co.uk/occasions/christmas/

Brampton Manor

R’n’B and Funk New Year’s Eve party 

Join Brampton Manor for its ‘fuNkYE’ R’n’B, Soul and Funk New Year’s Eve, priced at £15 per person.

Bring in 2022 with a bang! Brampton Manor’s very own DJ Shaggy will be playing the best in R’n’B, Soul and Funk!

  • Tickets priced at £15pp includes a delicious Soul Food Buffet.
  • Doors open 7pm.

More Info: https://bramptonmanor.co.uk/event/our-funkye-soul-and-funk-new-years-eve/

Fox and Goose Inn

Celebrating the best of Derbyshire cuisine on New Year’s Eve

To bring in 2022 in style, The Fox & Goose Inn is hosting a special New Year’s Eve dinner & disco Tasting menu.

A 6 Course Celebration of Derbyshire Fayre, including:

  • Champagne & Canapés on Arrival
  • Selection of Derbyshire Tapas
  • A Bakewell Gin Sorbet
  • A Choice of fresh locally Sourced Dishes
  • An Assiette of Desserts
  • A variety of Derbyshire Cheeses and Oatcakes for the table

Arrival 8pm, Disco in the Old Pub Snug from 10:30pm Shuttle Service for groups of 6 or more.

£65 per person

More info: 01246 566335 or www.thefoxandgooseinn.com/nye

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Christmas, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , ,

“It’s great for the town of Chesterfield” – Spireites CEO reacts to bumper FA Cup draw

Chesterfield FC staff and supporters are celebrating after being drawn to play away at Chelsea in the 3rd round of the FA Cup.

The Spireites will travel to play against the current Champions’ League holders between January 7-10 2022.

Chief executive John Croot has outlined just how important the tie will be for the future of the club.

Giving his reaction to the club’s online radio station, 1866 Sport, John said: “It’s absolutely brilliant. It’s fantastic for the club, for the fans, for the players and sponsors.

“We’ve waited a long time for a draw like this and it’s absolutely incredible. Importantly, it secures the financial future for the club for some time to come.

“It really shows you how the club has moved forward in just over 12 months since the Trust took over. It’s another milestone for us. Equally important, it’s great for the town of Chesterfield.”

The Spireites are certain to be well backed in South West London, as John acknowledged. He said: “We know our fans will travel in numbers and we know that they’ll travel to Stamford Bridge and have a great day out.”

It is expected that several thousand Chesterfield fans will make the trip to Stamford Bridge next month, with the club set to announce ticket details in due course. The draw comes just a day after the Spireites knocked out League 2 side Salford City, beating them 2-0 in the second round in a game broadcast live on ITV 4.

Chesterfield Football Club supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Chesterfield FC Proact

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,