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Chair’s Blog: “There has never been a better time to support our town”

1st June 2023

Summer is just around the corner, and it’s that time of year when people begin to plan their holidays. In 2023, however, you won’t need to look very far for all the fun and entertainment you could possibly want.

With an abundance of events coming to Chesterfield to match all tastes, there has never been a better time to support our town and help showcase what an excellent visitor destination we have.

This summer, we will see the return of firm favourites such as the BRM Solicitors Festival of Cricket, with the crunch fixture between Derbyshire and Yorkshire set to pack out the beautiful Queen’s Park once again. Thousands will flock to Chesterfield Pride, which is one of the largest events of its type in the entire region. Furthermore, our marketplace will welcome families from all over the country as the Medieval Fun Day returns in July.

We’re not stopping there though. A multitude of new events are coming to the town this year. The world-renowned Peddler Market will appear in our town for the first time – a real achievement for Chesterfield and a sign of the confidence in our area’s strong visitor offer.

Junction Arts will launch The Chesterfield Children’s Festival in Queen’s Park too, attracting families for a great weekend of outdoor fun this July.

Destination Chesterfield is again launching its Summer in Chesterfield campaign this month, aiming to highlight all these magnificent events and activities.

On top of that, we’re continuing to champion our increasingly popular independent food and drink offer. When you go into town or along the famous ‘Brampton Mile’ nowadays, you’ll find many of our wonderful pubs, bars and restaurants – full to the brim. Proof that you don’t need to travel to a city for a great evening out.

Everyone needs to continue supporting and championing local where we can. In a world of online shopping, there is no doubt that our high streets are changing. We must continue backing our independent shops, bars, restaurants and markets.

Whilst it’s understandable that people are having to be more prudent due to the cost of living, I’m delighted to report that you needn’t go on an expensive holiday abroad to have fun. We can create memories to last a lifetime right here, in our beautiful market town, surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the world-famous Peak District.

I look forward to seeing you at one of our town’s many exciting events this summer. Hopefully, we’ll get a nice dose of sunshine to go with them too!

Create memories to last a lifetime this summer in Chesterfield

1st June 2023

Make memories in Chesterfield this summer – with a packed events line up, including new family festivals, the return of some old favourites and lots of activities that everyone can take part in.

Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield have today launched Summer in Chesterfield, a campaign that will highlight all the fantastic things happening across the town this summer.

The campaign will support the town’s businesses by promoting what is happening in and around Chesterfield on social media, via website content and e-newsletters to communicate to as many residents, visitors and business owners as possible. There will also be prizes to win throughout the summer.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy said: “Chesterfield has so much to offer, that it’s easy to plan fun things to do to make memories with your friends and families. We’ve got some great ticketed events which are new to Chesterfield but also the return of some familiar favourites. But we’ll also be promoting some great free activities and events to help ensure everyone can make memories together this summer.

“We have fantastic parks, lots of places to picnic, markets to wander around and a range of events many of which have no cost attached at all. The popular Medieval Fun Day will include a range of entertainment around the town, and many people return year after year to attend this.”

Peter Swallow, Destination Chesterfield Chair, said: “This summer is a great opportunity to create memories to last a lifetime in our beautiful market town, while supporting our fabulous independent retailers and venues.

“With an abundance of events and activities coming to Chesterfield to match all tastes, there has never been a better time to support our town and help showcase what an excellent visitor destination we have. Hopefully, we will get a nice dose of sunshine to go with them too!”

Events and festivals

Chesterfield is welcoming back popular events, but there are also some new events to make memories at this summer.

The BRM Solicitors Chesterfield Festival of Cricket, will return to Queen’s Park from 11 – 18 June, with the T20 game on Sunday 18 June expected to sell out once again.

Chesterfield Canal Festival will see all four tripboats in action over the weekend of 24 – 25 June, with two having wheelchair lifts, as well as concerts in the evening canoeing, mini diggers and more.

The Plastic Free Festival returns on Sunday 16 July, where you can learn how to reduce your single use plastic and have a fun family day out with craft workshops, kids entertainment, food, drink, and live performances.

Indulge in street food as well as enjoying live music and bubble magicians at the free two-day Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival which takes place in Queen’s Park from 22- 23 July.

One of the biggest pride festivals in the region, Chesterfield Pride will take place in Stand Road Park once again on 23 July, featuring headline acts A1 and Tinchy Stryder.

The popular Medieval Fun Day is returning to entertain the crowds on Tuesday 25 July, from 10am to 4pm in Chesterfield town centre. The Market Place will be full of stalls selling a range of goods as well as fun and games for children in the same location. Head to the medieval encampment in the grounds of the Crooked Spire Church to see knights in battle or look out for the medieval themed entertainment, including Epico the Dragon, a jester and a Tudor musician, across the town centre.

Celebrate imagination and play at the Children’s Festival, organised by Junction Arts from 29 – 30 July with entertainment to include a circus, story time yoga, silent disco and much more.

For foodies, tribute bands and local musicians, head to Eat in the Park in Queen’s Park from 5 – 6 August.

You can find out more about all the events happening and how you can get involved on the Summer in Chesterfield page: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer

Great outdoors

If you are a fan of the great outdoors there is a lot to experience from cycling adventures to, big hikes and even paddle sports with many activities being free to go along to.

Chesterfield has a range of organised walks throughout the week that are open to everyone, and two Parkruns for those who fancy something slightly more involved. You can also find local self-led walking routes that will take you into the countryside and Peak District through the Summer in Chesterfield campaign.

Get out on the water with the Chesterfield Canal Trust and try out paddle sports or cruise up the historic canal on one of the trust’s tripboats. You can also take in an unrivalled view of the town and the surrounding countryside with a tower tour at the Crooked Spire.

Shopping and markets

Visitors will be able to enjoy one of the country’s leading street food markets when Peddler Market takes over New Square from 23 June – 24 June. Come along to sample award winning street food, craft drinks, music, art, and family activities.

Chesterfield not only has regular markets on Monday, Friday, and Saturdays from 9am to 4pm, but we also have one of the largest flea markets in the country every Thursday. A variety of specialist markets are taking place throughout the year too including the record fair, artisan market, young person’s market, and the vegan market amongst others.

Shopping in Chesterfield is a great experience both in the town centre and just outside on Chatsworth Road and Whittington Moor. We have a number of well-known chain stores, and a fantastic selection of independent retailers who are happy to offer gift advice where needed. The Summer in Chesterfield campaign includes details of 50 independent retailers to try.

Food and drink

If you are planning a special family meal out, or a night out with friends there are many different food and drink venues in Chesterfield for you to experience.

Check out the Summer in Chesterfield campaign’s blog detailing 50 different restaurants, cafes and bars to try.

For more ideas to make memories with family and friends this summer in Chesterfield, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in chesterfield activities, chesterfield events, Chesterfield family activities, Chesterfield family events, chesterfield news, Chesterfield summer activities, Destination Chesterfield, Love Chesterfield, Summer events, Summer in Chesterfield, things to do in Chesterfield, Things to do with the family in Chesterfield, visiting chesterfield

Chesterfield Champions support local community and charities with exciting initiatives

31st May 2023

Businesses across Chesterfield have kicked off the summer with a number of initiatives, aimed at supporting the community and local charities.

Recent events and activities included a postcard show featuring 173 artists, a charity football match between local businesses, a dance group for residents affected by cancer, and a bake-off to raise funds for vulnerable people in our area.

Find out more in our roundup below:

Chesterfield Postcard Show raises £1,200 for local charity

This year, the Chesterfield Postcard Show saw record entries, donations, and visitors, raising over £1,200 for local charity, Junction Arts.

The 2023 show featured 329 pieces of original art, with 173 artists, creatives and community groups submitting their work for the exhibition, which took place between the 9^th and 19^th May at West Studios in Chesterfield. Many entries were from local people but there were also submissions from across the UK and Europe.

All money raised from the sale of the postcards supports Junction Arts community projects and events in the area, creating a better future for everyone through the arts.

Over 200 people visited the show during the 10 days and 52 artworks have been sold so far. For those that didn’t make it to the exhibition, the postcard-size artworks are still available to buy, via the Junction Arts Etsy page.

The Chesterfield Postcard Show was organised by Junction Arts and local artist Dave Elsom, to allow creatives, communities, and up-and-coming artists to show their work in a professional exhibition.

This year’s show was entitled ‘Wish You Were Here’ and celebrated the importance of getting creative and its impact on people’s self-esteem and well-being.

Hannah Bowdler, Relationship Fundraiser at Junction Arts said: “We are so grateful to the artists and groups who have created and donated their work in the theme of ‘Wish You Were Here’, both Dave and I were blown away by the support and growth in uptake for the second show. We can’t wait to see what 2024’s show will be like!”

This year’s exhibition of mini masterpieces was sponsored by local financial services firm, Rosewood Wealth Management. Their support allowed organisers to run outreach workshops within the town centre, increasing accessibility and increasing local involvement.

Shannan Pool-Gorman, Company Director at Rosewood said: “Rosewood was delighted to sponsor The Chesterfield Postcard Show 2023. Attending the exhibition at West Studios, it was amazing to see some of the incredible postcard designs produced by participants. We especially liked the fact that those involved were able to produce their own unique, personalised mini masterpieces. Organised by Junction Arts, their mission to unite the community through the medium of art was something we greatly admired.”

Local transport firms face off in charity football match

Leading taxi and private hire firm City Taxis went head-to-head with Chesterfield vehicle hire company B&B Vehicles in a charity football match last weekend, raising money for The Sheffield 1000 and Support Dogs.

The Sheffield 1000 aims to get 1000 people donating £1 each week, with the money donated to local charities and good causes every week of the year. Support Dogs train puppies into support dogs for people with epilepsy, autism and other disabilities in their day to day lives.

The game, which took place at Bramall Lane, was organised by City Taxis’ Business Development Director Paul Gosney and B&B Vehicles’ Maz Kenyon.

After a strong start by City, B&B pulled it back with an equaliser that meant it was 1-1 when the final whistle blew. With a tense penalty shootout deciding the winner, City managed to come out on top after professional footballer Joe Green saved three of the five shots.

Paul Gosney, Business Development Director at City Taxis, said: “It was great to manage the City Taxis team to victory today, all for a good cause. After a strong 90 minutes from both sides, it was a fantastic ending to a brilliant day, where we raised both funds and awareness for our chosen charity, The Sheffield 1000.”

New dance group opens for Chesterfield and Derbyshire residents affected by Cancer

People across Derbyshire who have been affected by cancer are invited to join a new local dance group to meet, socialise and get together with other people living with the condition.

The Dancing for Health sessions have been kindly funded by the Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity Fund which enables the classes to be provided free to all the participants.

Sessions are held every Thursday morning 10am – 11.00am at the Calow Community Centre, Allpits Road, Calow, Chesterfield S44 5AT. Refreshments are available after the class and an opportunity to socialise with other group members.

Leading a physically active lifestyle during and after cancer treatment is linked to an improvement in many of the adverse affects of cancer and its treatment.

The Dancing for Health Seated Dance programme is specially designed to accommodate people affected by cancer and provides a physical and social activity that is gentle and safe.

The dance routines are fun and easy to learn. They can be done seated or standing, making them fully inclusive and get everyone involved no matter what their ability.

Dancing is a multidimensional activity that contributes positively to many aspects of a person’s overall health. Boosting happiness and mental health and keeping both the body and brain active to make participants feel great.

The classes are delivered in a group setting with others who share similar health challenges. Participants are also welcome to bring a friend or family member with them.

Tracey Barnes, Managing Director, Dancing for Health CIC, said: “Dancing for Health provides fun and friendly dance classes for people who can’t attend a mainstream dance class because of medical or age-related reasons. Our classes are really accessible for people with cancer and enables them to use dance, to help manage their symptoms and improve mood.

“My job is so rewarding, making a difference to people’s quality of life and hearing how our dance classes have helped them is why I go to work every day.”

Oasis Studio hosts ‘bake off’ for Hope House Charity

Chesterfield-based creative and digital firm, Oasis Studio recently hosted a bake off competition, to raise funds and awareness for Hope House Chesterfield.

The charity works to support those who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness in the Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire area.

Oasis Studio’s team worked together and held a ‘budget-bake off’, where members of the charity and residents joined them for the morning. It provided an opportunity for the Oasis Studio team to hear about Hope House’s upcoming charity events and learn more about the crucial service they provide.

Paul Deakin, Director of Oasis Studio commented: “The cost-of-living crisis doesn’t discriminate. Everyone has been affected by it. Whether it’s looking at how you can spend less on your weekly shop or assisting a family member with household bills to get them by, it continues to affect everyone. Local charities aren’t exempt from this. With people having less available funds, financial support for charities has also suffered.

“As a local business, we have a responsibility to support our local community and charities in any way we can. Hope House Chesterfield offers a lifeline to some of the most vulnerable individuals in the Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire area, and without support from the local community and businesses, they would struggle to continue to provide that crucial lifeline.

“The team raised £170 for the event and donated the bakes for the team and residents at Hope House Chesterfield to enjoy.”

Junction Arts, Rosewood Wealth Management, City Taxis, Chesterfield Royal Hospital and Oasis Studio 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, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Cancer support Chesterfield, chesterfield business news, chesterfield charity news, Chesterfield community news, Chesterfield community support, chesterfield news, Chesterfield postcard show, City Taxis, Community support in Chesterfield, Dance classes Chesterfield, Hope House, Junction arts, Oasis studio, rosewood wealth management

Unusual markings designed to ‘ward off witches’ discovered at historic Chesterfield landmark

30th May 2023

A series of unusual markings on the fireplace at Chesterfield’s Revolution House have been officially confirmed as protection marks designed to ward off witches.

The apotropaic markings (commonly referred to as anti-witch marks) depict a double ‘V’ which is a reference to the Virgin Mary Protector of Life and Family. Markings like this were usually placed near openings or windows with the intention of keeping witches and evil spirits out.

The unusual markings were spotted by one of the museum team who photographed them and sent the images to Professor Ronald Hutton, who kindly identified them.

Professor Ronald Hutton, a professor at the University of Bristol and leading authority on folklore, said: “These are convincing examples of apotropaic markings. The interlocked VVs are absolutely standard. The others are harder to make out but could correspond to more than one other known type of mark in the repertoire.”

Revolution House was originally constructed as a farmhouse in the 16th century and later became an inn during the 17th century – during this period there was a heightened belief in witches and witchcraft.

On Sunday 11 June Revolution House will be hosting a Witchcraft event. Visitors will be able to learn all about the 17th century witch hunts and get hands on to create their own witch pot.

Like apotropaic markings, witch pots were believed to protect your family and house from an attack by a witch’s curse and ensure you came to no harm.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We already knew that Revolution House had a rich history but this is an interesting discovery that tells us more about the people who have used the building in the past.

“We’ve been planning the Witchcraft event for a while and this discovery makes it even more relevant – the event is set to be a great day out for everyone and I hope lots of you will come along and make your own witch pot.”

The Witchcraft event is free to attend but donations are welcome and takes place on Sunday 11 June between 11am and 4pm. Creating a witch pot will be a drop-in session and visitors will be treated on a first come first served basis.

Other events are planned at the house each month throughout the summer including the return of legendary Tudor Minstrel Dante Ferrara, a demonstration of the healing properties of herbs and a display showing a selection of the council’s collection of sketches and art by Joseph Syddall.

You can find out more about Revolution House and the events planned by visiting: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/explore-chesterfield/revolution-house

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in chesterfield borough council, chesterfield events, Chesterfield landmarks, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, Revolution house, things to do in Chesterfield, visiting chesterfield

Chesterfield’s UKATA announces sporting legend as host of upcoming awards ceremony

30th May 2023

The legendary British athlete and TV personality Kriss Akabusi MBE is set to host the upcoming awards celebration of Chesterfield Champion UKATA.

Kriss will host 2023 UKATA Excellence Awards which are being held on Friday 7 July 2023 to coincide with Mesothelioma Awareness Day. UKATA-approved training providers and associates working within the UK’s asbestos industry will be honoured at the celebration.

The event will also celebrate the 15th anniversary of the creation of UKATA, a leading authority on asbestos standards and training.

Kriss said: “I am truly honoured to be hosting the UKATA Excellence Awards 2023 event and joining in the celebration of UKATA’s remarkable 15-year anniversary. This momentous occasion is a testament to the unwavering commitment and dedication of UKATA in advancing excellence and fostering growth within the construction industry.

“I am thrilled to be a part of this prestigious event, where we will recognise and honour the outstanding achievements of individuals and organisations who have made a significant impact in this dynamic field.

“Together, let us embrace the spirit of excellence and raise a toast to 15 years of success and innovation!”

This will be the second time Kriss has hosted UKATA’s awards, which are sponsored by Asbestos Analysts Ltd, Tersus Consultancy Ltd, Asbestos Management Consultancy Ltd, Roundworks IT, DSK Environmental Ltd and Specialist Assessment and Training Centre Ltd.

Craig Evans, UKATA Chief Operating Officer, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Kriss Akabusi as the host of this special event. His energy, enthusiasm, and charisma will add an extra dimension to what promises to be a fantastic evening celebrating the achievements of those in the asbestos industry.”

Established in 2008 at the request of the HSE (Health and Safety Executive), UKATA (the UK Asbestos Training Association) has since gone on to set the industry standards in asbestos training as well as develop a network of approved asbestos training providers.

The event, which is being held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, East Midlands Airport, will see Kriss present six prestigious awards which recognise the achievements of individuals and organisations working in the industry to protect workers and the public from the risks associated with asbestos exposure.

Despite the use of asbestos being banned in the UK in 1999, asbestos exposure is responsible for the deaths of *20 tradespeople in the UK every week, making it the single biggest cause of work-related deaths.

Kriss will present six awards at the event:

Contribution to the Community Award
Customer Service Excellence Award
Workforce Development Award
Excellence in Innovation
Industry Associate of the Year
Rising Star Award

An expert panel of judges will decide the winners of the awards which will be announced on the night.

More than 100 people working within the industry are expected to attend the event, including campaigners and fundraisers for charities dedicated to people affected by mesothelioma, asbestosis, or other asbestos related diseases.

Craig added: “Although the use of asbestos was banned in the construction of buildings nearly 25 years ago, it still presents a very serious health risk to people. The work of our approved training providers, charities and campaigners within the industry continues to be vital in increasing asbestos safety standards. I am delighted that we will be able to recognise them at this very special celebration.”

Asbestos was used widely in construction for 100 years prior to its ban. It is estimated that today there are six million tonnes of the highly toxic material in as many as 1.5 million buildings in the UK.

Since UKATA was established 15 years ago, approved training providers have delivered asbestos training to more than two million people.

To find a UKATA approved asbestos training provider near you, visit www.ukata.org.uk or for free advice call the team on 01246 824437.

UKATA 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, Home, UncategorisedTagged in Chesterfield business awards, chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, UKATA, UKATA Excellence Awards

Chesterfield’s RA Information Systems celebrates 35 years of success

26th May 2023

RA Information Systems, a software company and IT provider based in Chesterfield, has announced its 35^th Anniversary in business.

Over its 35 years, the company has grown from a small start-up to a well-known, nationally and worldwide recognised firm. Right from its inception in 1988, RA has been offering bespoke software services to a variety of customers in the UK.

The company has experienced a substantial growth since its inception and rapidly expanded into the supply of complete IT systems and services to corporate users, laying the foundations for the company it is today.

RA Information Systems has successfully implemented many fully managed service contracts, including Shared Internet Infrastructure design, high-capacity, fast and secure data connections, hosted and on-premises VoIP telephony solutions, data security and on-going support. RA Information Systems has also been successful in the development and implementation of their specialised enterprise software packages for over 30 years.

In addition, RA Information Systems has become a market leader in the UK tree management software arena. Primarily used by local authorities, such as county, city and borough councils and their contractors, it is also used by other large-scale tree managers including housing associations, universities, water companies, zoos and large independent consultancies.

In 2000 RA Information Systems expanded their software services creating a software for the business centre industry and innovation lead sector.

Over the years, its clarity code software has evolved into a powerful solution to streamline the management of combined spaces and laboratory units. It is widely used by laboratory, workshop and office space providers, science, research and innovation-led companies, flexible office and managed workspace providers and event venues.

Annette Dabbs, Company Director at RA Information Systems, commented: “We are delighted to have reached this milestone, especially in such a competitive market place. We’re pleased to have become a part of the UK business community and have had the pleasure of working with and meeting many professionals over the years and look forward to continuing to build on these strong relationships in the future.

“It was great to celebrate our 35^th Anniversary with our employees and friends this May and we’ll continue celebrating it throughout the year with more events to come.”

RA Information Systems 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, Development, Home, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in Chesterfield business growth, chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, RA Information Systems

Redbrik Estate Agents reports almost 200% increase in Google searches for Chesterfield homes

26th May 2023

A Chesterfield estate agent says recent investment in the town is attracting more people to live here.

Data revealed by Redbrik, based on Glumangate in the town centre shows that Google searches for homes in the town have rocketed by 196% over the last year.

The figures come shortly after Chesterfield was named the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family, thanks to its affordability, access to green spaces and a range of highly-rated schools and education facilities.

Redbrik’s data also shows that a number of people are looking for a move away from the larger cities. It shows more than 200 people in the Sheffield area have begun their search for a move to Chesterfield recently.

Jessica Risorto, Director at Redbrik, said: “It’s great to see so much interest in Chesterfield at the moment and so many people looking to move there as there is so much going on.

“Lots of young people choose to continue living in the city after they finish university as they don’t want to give up their exciting lifestyle, but more people are now realising that moving slightly further away doesn’t mean they have to give up on all the benefits of city living.

“In fact, they can have all those benefits with the advantage of the beautiful Peak District on their doorstep and more square footage for their money.”

Chesterfield will play host to several new events and activities this summer, such as the renowned Peddler Market and the first ever Chesterfield Children’s Festival.

On top of that, the independent food, drink and leisure offer in Chesterfield Town Centre, Chatsworth Road and Whittington Moor provides people with great options for socialising and spending their free time.

Chesterfield is also well connected, with the beautiful Peak District sat on the western edge of the town, and great connectivity to major cities such as Sheffield, Nottingham, Derby, Manchester and Leeds. Chesterfield residents can also reach London within two hours by train.

Jessica added: “It’s amazing to see so much investment in Chesterfield and so many new offerings which are making a real difference in attracting people to the town – and bringing a slice of the city to the area. Coupled with recently being named one of the best places to raise a family in the country, Chesterfield is well and truly on the map!”

Redbrik 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, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield housing, chesterfield news, Living in Chesterfield, Love Chesterfield, working in chesterfield

Stanedge Golf Club owner awarded PGA Advanced Fellow Professional status

25th May 2023

The owner of a picturesque golf club nestled on the outskirts of Chesterfield has been awarded a prestigious status by the world’s leading golf association.

Fame Tate, owner of Stanedge Golf Club says she is ‘elated’ and ‘honoured’ after being awarded PGA Advanced Fellow Professional status, which she successfully gained after submitting her PGA Excel application.

PGA Excel is the Association’s dedicated assessment framework, enabling members to demonstrate their impact, achievements and value to employers, golfers and the wider industry.

This is the latest in a highly successful career for Fame, who previously represented both England and Great Britain & Ireland as an amateur. She also played on the Ladies European Tour for six years, before launching a coaching business and eventually taking over the reigns at Stanedge.

Fame explained: “When the news came through, I was absolutely over the moon – it certainly put a smile on my face.”

“For me both personal and professional development are extremely important – every step of the way I’ve always endeavoured to develop my own skill set and knowledge, with a focus on specialist knowledge, business management and golf growth and development which of course appear heavily within the value blocks of PGA Excel.”

Founded in 1931, Stanedge Golf Club is located on the outskirts of Chesterfield, providing idyllic views stretching over four counties.

The golf course is a beautiful moorland/parkland course suitable for all levels of ability, offering an engaging, challenging and varied test of golf.

Fame added: “In terms of the business, I’m continually looking at areas where we do really well, or areas for improvement, but with this, I felt it provided a vital insight into myself within my overall career and enabled me to look at areas both personally and professionally where I have done well, and areas that I’d like to focus on in the future.

Stanedge Golf Club 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, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in chesterfield business news, Chesterfield Golf, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, PGA, Stanedge Golf Club

Work begins on new Chesterfield cycle route

24th May 2023

Work to put in a cycle lane along Chatsworth Road in Chesterfield will start today (24 May 2023)

Preparatory work will take place until 3 June 2023, and then on 12 and 13 June 2023, before continuing from 19 June 2023. Traffic lights will be needed along the road for most of the time workers are on site, but they will be monitored so that delays are minimised as much as possible.

From 19 June 2023 work will start at the west end of the scheme and move towards the town centre, with work directly outside Brookfield Community School being carried out during the school summer holidays.

The work will be undertaken in coordination with planned surface dressing which will be around 21 June 2023, depending on the weather.

Chatsworth Road is towards the western end of the new cycle and walking route which will take people into the town centre, past the train station and on towards Chesterfield Royal Hospital.

A Derbyshire County Council spokesperson said: “The new walking and cycling route, once completed, will give a real alternative to taking the car for short journeys across Chesterfield, which is for the benefit of everyone who lives, works or visits the town. Fewer car journeys will bring health benefits to the whole town including cleaner air.”

The government has awarded Derbyshire County Council £1.68 million to create the new route. Further work will take place later this year.

The market town of Chesterfield has an excellent network of cycle routes and is perfectly located as a base for a cycling holiday to explore the Peak District and Derbyshire. Here are some suggestions to help plan your next two wheeled adventure.

Find out more about the facilities available for cyclists in the area here.

We caught up with Paul Chapman, Owner of the local lifestyle magazine and website, S40 Local, who loves cycling, to tell us more and share one of his favourite routes. Read more from Paul.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in chesterfield business news, Chesterfield cycle route, Chesterfield cycling, Chesterfield cycling routes, chesterfield developments, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield

More growth announced for businesses in Chesterfield

23rd May 2023

Firms across Chesterfield have announced further growth, with new recruits, promotions, major deals and takeovers announced across the town.

Check out some of the latest stories of growth in our roundup below.

Laura Pain becomes first female equity partner at Mitchells

Laura Pain has been announced as an equity partner at Mitchells Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers – the first female equity partner in the company’s 155-year history.

A Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA), Laura has been with the Chesterfield-based accountancy firm since 2008 and became an associate partner in 2021. She now joins fellow equity partners Tim Leeman, Tony Hornsby and Andrew McDaid in leading the business.

She commented: “Becoming an equity partner coincides with my fifteenth year with the firm, making it an incredibly special milestone for me. I am honoured to be the first female equity partner at Mitchells Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers.

As equity partner, Laura will continue to lead the firm’s team of digital accountants who specialise in advising start-ups and small businesses leverage the power of Cloud Accounting to automate their business processes and reduce costs.

Laura brings extensive experience to her role at Mitchells, boasting a 23-year career in accountancy.

Her appointment as equity partner recognises her contribution and leadership within the business. Senior partner Tim Leeman commented: “Tony, Andrew and I are delighted that Laura is now an equity partner. Her experience and passion for the business and clients is very much valued and will be instrumental in helping us grow the business further.”

Laura added: “I look forward to contributing to the continued growth and success of Mitchells in the years to come.”

Banner Jones strengthens personal injury team with new hire

Law firm Banner Jones has strengthened its leading personal Injury team with the appointment of experienced Chartered Legal Executive Sarah Schoolar.

Bringing more than 15 years’ experience in civil litigation to the role, Sarah works to secure compensation for clients who have suffered life altering injuries sustained through no fault of their own.

Joining from Elliot Mather, and based in the firm’s Chesterfield office, her appointment follows hot on the heels of news that Sarah Sadler will also take on the role of Head of Personal Injury. Chief Executive, Simon Wright (former Head of Personal Injury) maintains a role in the team as consultant.

Having joined Banner Jones in 2017 Sarah oversees all types of injury claims including Clinical Negligence, Road Traffic Accidents, Accidents at Work, Public and Occupier’s Liability and Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority claims (CICA) and sexual abuse compensation claims.

She is ranked as a Recommended Lawyer in the 2023 UK Legal 500 guide.

Welcoming Sarah Schoolar to the firm and commenting on her promotion to Head of Personal Injury, Sarah Sadler said: “I am delighted to welcome Sarah to the team and to take on my new role as Head of Personal Injury. We are excited to grow the department and to help people, who have been through difficult experiences, get the outcomes they hope for”.

Sarah Schoolar added: “I am really looking forward to joining the Banner Jones and working alongside Sarah.

“The Personal Injury team has a strong reputation across the region for its in-depth legal knowledge, but also for its personal approach that helps to put clients at ease and makes them feel that they are treated as individuals.

“The firm as a whole has an unrivalled reputation for delivering accessible, customer service-led legal services and that’s something I am equally passionate about.”

Elliot Mather Appoints First Non-Lawyer as Designated LLP Member

Full service law firm Elliot Mather LLP has announced the appointment of new designated LLP Member – Alan Grant.

Alan is the first non-lawyer in the firm to be appointed as a Designated LLP Member, with his focus being on the strategic and operational aspects of the LLP.

He has been integral in the development and growth of the business in recent years, after having joined Elliot Mather in 2016 as Chief Operations Officer.

Since he joined Elliot Mather, Alan has planned and coordinated office relocations in three of the firm’s locations, and was also instrumental in the smooth installation of a new IT system in 2017.

Commenting on his recent appointment as Designated LLP Member, Alan said: “It is a pleasure to be part of a business that recognises the need for diverse skills.

“I believe my skillset compliments those of the existing Designated Members. I am excited for the future of Elliot Mather and for the staff being developed to continue our success and growth. I am grateful for the experiences I have obtained in different professional industries and look forward to the challenges within the legal sector.”

In his new role, Alan will retain overall responsibility for Finance, HR, IT, Marketing and Admin but will also shift his emphasis to the strategic development of the firm.

The Skills Centre acquires Chesterfield’s Sorted Training

The Skills Centre, one of the UK’s most successful vocational construction training providers, has acquired Sorted Training to bolster its commercial training portfolio.

The acquisition of Sorted Training, a leading provider in Health & Safety Training and NVQ Assessments, will result in the further expansion of The Skills Centre’s portfolio nationally.

The Skills Centre already has training centres across London and Birmingham, and training programmes in Liverpool, Bristol and along the HS2 line.

Sorted Training, based in Chesterfield, offers an innovative approach to Health & Safety training, helping employers within the industry through delivery of Health & Safety training and NVQ assessments.

It complies with key tender applications and principal contractors, including creating policies and reviewing safety equipment, on-site short courses, offering CSCS / CPCS NVQ to specialist accredited Face fit testing through Qualitative or Quantitative methods.

Jon Howlin, Chief Executive of The Skills Centre commented: “The construction sector has a massive skills shortage across all parts of the industry. Thanks to this merger, we will be training even more people new to the construction industry to fill pivotal positions. Sorted Training aligns perfectly with The Skills Centre’s missions to transform lives by providing local people access to local opportunities, so the acquisition makes total sense.”

Gareth Davies, founder of Sorted Training, will take the role of Commercial Director at The Skills Centre. He added: “It’s a match made in heaven in my eyes.

“I bonded with Jon, the directors and team immediately. I loved everything about them and what they stood for – helping communities, individual progressions and client support and care.

“We will now be operating nationally with a local provider approach with the aim of being the number one training provider in the country.”

Chesterfield’s FA-ST Filtration appointed UK distributor for internationally renowned products

A Chesterfield business has announced a major international link, becoming an official UK distributor for the Checkfluid range.

For 18 years, FA-ST has been innovators in promoting oil filtration and analysis products and service to a broad range of industries.

Checkfluid’s oil sampling valves allow for the sample to be taken in a uniform, consistent and representative way, making the process more reliable.

The team at FA-ST say the addition of Checkfluid’s range of sampling valves is a real game changer for the company, and the entire oil sampling/analysis industry.

Craig Cousins, Business Development Manager at FA-ST, commented: “We understand that our customers require high quality and reliable products and the Checkfluid valves certainly meet those criteria.

“With the cost of oils and fuels continually rising, our ongoing task is to promote the use of these sampling valves combined with oil analysis to aid companies in reducing their usage of oils which in doing so will reduce their overhead costs of purchasing new oils, reduce waste disposal and aid the environment improving their Green credentials.”

Mitchells Chartered Accountants and Banner Jones Solicitors support 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, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in Banner Jones Solicitors, Chesterfield business growth, chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Elliot Mather LLP, FA-ST, Love Chesterfield, Mitchells accountants, Sorted Training, The Skills Centre

Chesterfield manufacturer Robinson creates wedding cake boxes for Betty’s

23rd May 2023

Robinson Paperbox Packaging has been chosen by iconic bakery Betty’s of Harrogate to produce an elegant range of wedding cake boxes.

The boxes have been designed to protect the cakes, which are manufactured at the Betty’s bakery in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

Ranging in size from 8 inch to 16 inches in diameter, the packaging had to be strong and robust, so Robinson produced a litho laminated corrugated box and lid. The boxes are finished with an elegant, foiled logo on the lid.

Claire Louise Armitt, packaging technologist for Betty’s says: “It was great to finally get this project over the line, changing the logo from a printed black one to gold foiled has really lifted the packaging for these boxes that contain highly decorated wedding cakes.”

Robinson are involved in several other projects for Betty’s in both confectionery and bakery-based products.

Jon Walker, New Business Development Manager for Robinson commented: “Securing work with this high-profile customer is great for our business and shows exactly why BRC accreditation is so important”.

Robinson were recently awarded FSC certification for its Paperbox division.

FSC certification ensures that all products produced at Paperbox are sustainable. FSC-managed forests help provide clean air and water by restricting hazardous chemicals and following strict harvesting and forestry practices. Their work also helps ensure a diversity of animals, trees and plants as well as providing safe working conditions for everyone involved.

This further demonstrates the investment that the company is making in its Paperbox business, following a significant investment in its new SATE box-making machine in Chesterfield, with improved quality and a reduced carbon footprint that allows customers to avoid long, complex supply chains from Asia.

The company partners with some of the world’s most luxurious brands, from concept to commercialisation, creating widely recyclable packaging made from 100% post-consumer recycled material.

Robinson 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, Development, Home, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business news, Chesterfield manufacturing, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, Robinson, Robinson Packaging, Robinson Plc