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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, 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, 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, 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, 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, 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, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

Brand new virtual reality games centre opens in Chesterfield

Chesterfield’s visitor offer has received another boost just in time for Christmas, with the opening of a new virtual reality gaming centre.

The fully immersive attraction, Chesterfield VR is the latest addition to the Chesterfield Games Quarter, which is building on the success of the recently-opened Chesterfield Escape Rooms and long-standing favourite, Geeks HQ.

The new Chesterfield VR attraction will be situated alongside the existing Games Quarter businesses in Soresby Street, and will include:

  • 4 state-of-the-art VR gaming stations, utilising HTC Vive Pro headsets and controllers
  • Wide selection of titles available to play each month (approximately 20) , such as Job Simulator, Pistol Whip, Richie’s Plank Experience, Superhot VR, Blade & Sorcery, and many more.
  • Multiplayer gaming available on selected titles: Rhythmatic, Loco Dojo, Synth Riders, Cloudlands VR Minigolf, and many more…
  • Two VR escape rooms, playable with upto 4 players: Racket: NX and FailSpace
  • Shootout and Race nights hosted on Wednesday and Friday nights respectively
  • Private hire available for birthday and Christmas parties, corporate events, socials, etc.

Players will not be restricted to playing one title per visit, they are able to play as many as they wish, in 30 or 60 minute timeslots. Games will also be changed around each month, refreshing the lesser-used titles. The centre will keep followers updated on the regular changes on its social media and email updates.

Manager of Chesterfield VR and Chesterfield Escape Rooms, Nick Hogan commented: “With having over 5000 players through our doors in the first 6 months of business, it gave the management team and I the confidence to invest further in the local economy.

“The vision was always to create a gaming quarter for all different types of gaming needs young and old. We are so excited to open the doors and welcome in the public and who knows, if the public continue to invest their time in the Games Quarter, there might me one or two further things in the pipeline!

“We focused on two things when creating the escape rooms, the playability of the game and customer service. Feedback has been so positive that we have gone into the top 10 UK Escape Rooms as ranked by Trip Advisor and are the only newly established Escape Room in the top 10.”

Bookings are available via the website (www.chesterfieldvr.co.uk), in-store or over the phone: 01246 60 70 02

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

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

Brampton Manor to support local traders and craftspeople at German Christmas Market

Brampton Manor is set to fully open its Christmas Igloo Village this Sunday, 5th December alongside a German Christmas Market being hosted at the venue.

Local traders and craftspeople have been given free stalls at Brampton Manor to sell their wares to the public, and the heated igloos are being provided free-of-charge on a pre-booked or first-come first-served basis. Bookings for the igloos can be made on the Brampton Manor website.

German specialities such as Bratwurst, Stollen, Weissbier, Mulled Wine and Cinnamon Hot Chocolate are being served along with other hot food and drinks.

Live music is provided by local Bluebird Ami Evans, and she will be joined by Santa at 4pm to officially open the Village for this season.

Markets are being held every Thursday evening from 6pm and Sunday from 2pm up until Christmas, and there are still a few places for stallholders available. Anyone interested in taking up a stall at the market can email info@bramptonmanor.co.uk for information.

There are live local music artists at every Christmas Market taking place at the Manor between now and Christmas, with Santa set to visit the venue every Sunday. He returns to Brampton Manor for his much-loved Supper & Storytime on 15th & 22nd December, and annual Christmas Eve singalong with Andy Booth’s Choir.

Craig Lynch of Brampton Manor said: “After last year’s cancellation and the recent news surrounding covid, we are delighted we are able to provide a covid-secure experience and support local traders who, like us have had a thin couple of years.

“The support we have received from the local council during Covid means we are able to offer the heated igloos free of charge to our visitors.”

There are plenty of events and activities taking place across Chesterfield this festive season. To find out more about what’s on in the town, along with local festive shopping guides and more, go to: www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas

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

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Chesterfield named the happiest place to live in the East Midlands

Chesterfield is the happiest place to live in the East Midlands, according to a recent survey.

Property firm Rightmove has published its annual Happy at Home Index, now in its 10th year. The company asked more than 21,000 residents to tell them how they feel about where they live, as well as ranking 10 happiness factors.

Chesterfield was placed 68th in the UK overall, out of more than 200 towns and cities. The latest study also shows that moving is making people happier. Community is also really key, with feeling a sense of belonging, the friendliness of local residents, and being able to be yourself in an area among the most important measures of happiness.

It was also recently revealed that there has been a recent surge of interest from commuters eyeing up homes in Chesterfield.

Dom Stevens, manager of Destination Chesterfield said: “It is great to hear that Chesterfield has been recognised as the happiest place to live in the East Midlands.

“Our town with the famous crooked spire and historic market located on the edge of the peak district national park, is the perfect place to live and also to locate a business. Chesterfield is a friendly place with a real sense of community and our central location with excellent transport links makes it the perfect place to set up home.

“With many more homes currently being built across North Derbyshire and over £1billion of regeneration taking place we look forward to welcoming people who choose to make Chesterfield their home.”

Looking at the overall results and rankings of happiest areas across Britain, Rightmove property expert Tim Bannister said: “Last year’s lockdown periods continue to have an impact on our priorities and what makes us happy, which is one of the reasons why community and a sense of belonging continue to be so important to people this year.

“Last year redefined the importance and role of our home and local community in our lives, and this has carried on into this year, even as wider society has started to open up again.”

Find out more about visiting, living and working in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/

 

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First Staveley Town Deal project approved

Plans to improve parking facilities opposite the Chantry Road Playing fields in Staveley have been approved.

The project will see the number of parking places increase as well as better visibility of the site from the road, improved lighting and better access to the playing fields, cemetery and on to the Trans Pennine Trail.

Terry Damms, Chairman of Staveley Miners Welfare Football Club (MWFC), said: “To follow up on our Town Deal Accelerator Funding for our junior’s Chantry Pitches drainage scheme with this, is terrific news for the local community. There has been and is so much energy and commitment going into the Town Deal from all sides and we wish to thank the Town Deal representatives, Chesterfield Borough Council and their planning department who have guided and assisted us during these very difficult times through the pandemic.

“To see Staveley MWFC being awarded the first of the Town Deal funding and leading from the front is rather unique and sets the scene for the remaining £25.2m projects with their sponsors knowing that they can work towards the reality of seeing their own projects come to life with funding.

“We aren’t finished yet and with the further guidance and assistance from the Town Deal we hope our third project to build a Skills Hub Building above our clubhouse for local 16–18-year-olds to further their own sporting education will be supported by the Town Deal.”

Currently there are just 30 parking spaces available, once complete this will increase to 84 including several disabled bays – allowing even more residents and visitors to park up and enjoy and make use of the area.

Preparatory works are planned to start in the next month and completed in 2022 ready for work to begin on the improved parking facilities.

The application also includes plans to create a new pedestrian crossing which will make it safer to cross the road to access both the Chantry Playing Fields and the cemetery. It will also improve access to the Trans Pennine Trail.

Trees next to the road will be removed to increase visibility in the car park which should limit anti-social behaviour.

The works are being funded through the Staveley Town Deal. The Accelerator Funding, also part of the Town Deal supported the investment of the drainage improvements to the youth football pitches and playing fields.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “To go from discussing these projects at board meetings to delivering them so quickly is a testament to the hard work of all involved. Our plans aim to make Staveley a place to live, work and grow and we have selected a broad range of projects that will benefit the entire community. There is a long road ahead but if we continue to work together, we will see real improvements across Staveley.”

The money has been secured thanks to a Chesterfield Borough Council bid to the Government’s Town Deal – submitted on behalf of the Staveley Town Deal Board as part of wider plans to regenerate the area, investing £25m for capital projects.

Other projects in the Staveley Town Deal Investment Plan include, DRIIVe (Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle) which is a rail focussed innovation centre, a construction skills hub, an extension to the Staveley Hall Conference Centre, restoration of the Chesterfield Canal, and improvements to the Barrow Hill Memorial Hall. These projects are still being finalised and developed with further announcements over the coming months.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “It’s fantastic to see these projects move forward, these improvements will ensure that the community can make great use of the Chantry football pitches and Playing Fields and also ensure more safer use for the Trans Pennine Trail. There are a range of other projects that are being developed which will bring even more positive changes for the entire Staveley community.”

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Chesterfield’s Pantomime returns with Beauty and The Beast this Christmas

Residents and visitors can look forward to watching Beauty and the Beast at Chesterfield’s Pomegranate Theatre from later this week.

Tickets are now on sale for the pantomime, which will run from Friday 3 December 2021 to Sunday 2 January 2022.

West End actress, pop star and TV personality Suzanne Shaw will star as Belle, with Thomas Redgrave from Britain’s Got Talent Winners Collabro as Gaston and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Andrew Fleming in the comedy role of Philippe Philoppe.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We are really excited to be hosting the pantomime again as we understand this is a highlight for many families over the festive season.

“Our theatres have had a difficult time recently due to the ongoing impact of Covid-19, so we are very pleased to announce that the pantomime is back for our audiences to enjoy.”

Chesterfield Theatres will be joining forces once again with award-winning pantomime producers Paul Holman Associates to present this year’s much-anticipated production.

Pantomime Producer Paul Holman from PHA Ltd said: “Pantomime holds such a special place in so many people’s hearts and I am delighted that we’re able to return this year to the wonderful Pomegranate Theatre with Beauty and the Beast. We’ve pulled out all the stops to make this our most spectacular production yet and I hope audiences will enjoy returning to the much-loved tradition of panto as they make cherished memories which will last a lifetime.”

There are lots of other festive activities to get involved in across Chesterfield too. You can visit The Amazing Magical Santa House in the Assembly Rooms at the Market Hall and you can follow the Elf Trail in the town centre.

There is also a Lantern Parade taking place in Chesterfield on 19 December that will walk from the bandstand in Queen’s Park into the Market Place to sing festive carols at the Christmas Tree.

You can book your tickets for the Santa House at chesterfieldchristmas.co.uk and find out about the other Christmas activities at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/christmas.

There are a number of other festive and New Year productions taking place in our theatres including a satellite broadcast of The Nutcracker by the Royal Ballet, a New Year Viennese Gala Concert from Sheffield Symphony Orchestra, Ballet Theatre UK’s re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale ballet, The Snow Queen and a New Year’s Eve Party at the Winding Wheel Theatre.

Tickets for the pantomime and all of the other productions are on sale now via chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk or from the Box Office on 01246 345222.

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