Leisure

Chesterfield Pubwatch shortlisted for national award

A local scheme that aims to provide safe drinking environments for customers and staff has been shortlisted for a national award.

Chesterfield Pubwatch has been named on the shortlist for the top accolade at the National Pubwatch Awards, which will take place on 22 October at the House of Lords.

Chesterfield Pubwatch has been operating for over 22 years and is run by local business owners, with support from Chesterfield Borough Council’s licensing team, Derbyshire Constabulary and other local partners with the aim of supporting a safe environment within the night-time economy.

The scheme’s award submission highlights a number of initiatives that have been rolled out across the town to help provide a safer environment for customers and staff alike – including new ways for venues, police, and the local authority to share information.

Together with Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield Pubwatch has delivered an upgraded digital radio communications network across the town – allowing licensed premises to communicate effectively with each other and key stakeholders such as the Police. This system is instrumental in maintaining safety and security in the town.

Additionally, Chesterfield Pubwatch has also supported the launch of the Best Bar None scheme in the town – with 22 local businesses already being awarded the accreditation, which helps to reduce alcohol-related crime and create a safer night out.

Roger Butler, Chair of Chesterfield Pubwatch, said: “Chesterfield is a safe place to live, visit and socialise. We’re lucky to have so many licensed venues for people to enjoy, but like towns and cities around the country, alcohol-related crime and disorder can sometimes be an issue.

“We are delighted to have been named as one of the three Pubwatch schemes on the shortlist for the national award. We’re always looking for new ways to work with local businesses and different groups to take on board any feedback they have and look at different ways we can all work together to reduce nuisance behaviour, so that everyone can enjoy a safe night out.”

Councillor Steve Lismore, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Chesterfield Pubwatch continues to work tirelessly across our communities to reduce anti-social behaviour, and it is great to see that their efforts have been recognised by being shortlisted for the National Pubwatch Award.

“Chesterfield is a safe place to socialise, but the work of the Pubwatch helps to make sure everyone can feel safe when out and about.”

Planning a night out in Chesterfield? Find out more about how you can make the most of it at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/places-to-visit/night-out/

brampton brewey pub

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Chesterfield Menagerie exhibition to celebrate our relationship with animals

A new museum exhibition coming to Chesterfield will celebrate the extraordinary relationship between humans and animals.

Chesterfield Menagerie includes a wide range of items from the Chesterfield Museum collection which show humans connections with animals. It includes a beautiful Brampton salt glaze fish flask, ‘The Plough’ a stunning painting by Joseph Syddall, a wonderful figurine of a Chicken by William Gordon and much more.

painting by local artist depicts an old ploughing method using horses

There will be fun activities and interactive elements for the whole family to enjoy including handling items, feely boxes, a sound board of animal calls, a magnetic board matching activity and animal related crafts.

The exhibition will be hosted in the Grade 2 listed Assembly Rooms above the Market Hall from Friday 13 September until Tuesday 12 October, and open from 10am to 2.30pm weekdays, and from 10am to 4pm on Saturdays. It is free to enter.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for our residents and visitors to learn more about our borough’s history and see some incredible things that have been created right here. We want lots of people to come along and support this exhibition and we’ve made sure that there is something for everyone to enjoy.”

Museum fish exhibit

In addition, there will also be a selection of free special events hosted during the exhibition.

Chester the Field Mouse will be visiting the exhibition, meeting fans and posing for pictures on Saturday 14 September from 1pm to 2.15pm.

On Saturday 21 September, Kakou will be hosting a workshop where visitors can create their own art bot. This simple robot will wobble across paper and create a unique drawing. Sessions are being held at 11am, 12pm and 1pm.

As we approach the autumn months visitors will be able to learn more about birds and bees, including how to identify bees, how birds build nests, and they will be able to build their own bird feeder to take away and hang up in their garden. Visitors will be able to take part in this activity on Saturday 28 September from 1pm to 3pm.

The exhibition is hosted in the town centre making it easily accessible by public transport and the venue also includes a lift to ensure that visitors of all abilities can access the exhibition. Further work is being undertaken to provide the exhibition materials in different formats.

The Chesterfield Menagerie exhibition is part of a programme of events and exhibitions that are being funded by Arts Council England.

It aims to ensure that whilst Chesterfield Museum and the Pomegranate Theatre are closed for refurbishment residents and visitors can still connect with our borough’s history and culture.

Over the next year the programme will include a series of museum exhibitions at venues across the borough and range of theatre productions at the Winding Wheel Theatre. To find out more about the programme visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/explore-chesterfield/museum/arts-council-england-programme

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SocialFuse Festival to focus on community-led regeneration in Chesterfield

A festival coming to Chesterfield next week is set to celebrate the way our communities are playing their part in the ongoing regeneration of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

The SocialFuse Festival, taking place across various venues in our town is an annual flagship event that gathers a diverse group of purpose-driven individuals, change-makers, and innovators from Derbyshire and beyond.

The festival, taking place from Tuesday 10 September  – Saturday 14 September, serves as a platform to celebrate and inspire positive social, environmental, and economic change. It is designed to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and ignite action among those who are passionate about making a difference in their communities and the world.

Organiser of the festival, Ann Fomukong-Boden is director of local design consultancy, Kakou Technologies and a Destination Chesterfield Board Member.

Ann Fomukong-Boden

Speaking about what participants can expect at this year’s festival, Ann commented: “Overall, this year’s SocialFuse Festival aims to be a catalyst for positive change by inspiring, connecting, and empowering individuals who are passionate about making a difference.

“Highlighting the work of community and voluntary sectors and the people working in them is essential for recognising their contributions, inspiring further involvement, building strong networks, attracting support, influencing policy, celebrating diversity, and promoting sustainable social change. These sectors are the backbone of community resilience and well-being, and their recognition is vital for a more inclusive and supportive society.”

Several developments are currently underway across Chesterfield, and Ann believes the upcoming event provides an opportunity to highlight the impact of involving the community sector: “We are currently going through a period of regeneration – locally in Chesterfield with the town centre revitalisation plans, regionally with a new Combined Authority and Mayor, and nationally with the new government.

“By highlighting the importance of a holistic, community-led approach and showcasing successful examples, the event seeks to empower individuals, businesses, and voluntary groups to actively participate in and contribute to the regeneration of their community. Through collective efforts, Chesterfield can become a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive place that reflects the aspirations and needs of its people.”

“Regeneration requires input and collaboration between all stakeholders. The Festival wants to highlight the importance of partnerships and how different sectors can work together to achieve shared goals.

“SocialFuse isn’t just about work; it’s also about celebrating our community and having a good time! The Festival offers a chance to relax, enjoy, and connect with others who share your passion for making a positive impact. There will be plenty of opportunities to meet new people, discover new ideas, and find inspiration for your own projects and initiatives.

“And the best part? Thanks to our wonderful sponsors and collaborators, all the events are free to attend. This means that everyone in the community can join in, regardless of their financial situation. We want to ensure that the SocialFuse Festival is accessible to all, so come along, bring your friends and family, and be part of this exciting event.”

Find out more about the events and activities taking place as part of the SocialFuse Festival on our event listing.

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

Attendees at festival sat around table watching presentation

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Bottle & Thyme toasts opening night success at Elder Way

Chesterfield’s award-winning independent bar and restaurant, Bottle & Thyme has made the move to Elder Way. The move has created six new jobs and prompted seven-day opening for the business.

The family-owned and run business has transformed the flagship corner unit of the former Co-op department store on Elder Way into a restaurant, private function room which seats up to 40 people, and bar, with additional outdoor space for dining and drinking.

The new function area, The Glass Room, hosted a wedding on the first night of opening and is already fully booked throughout September.

A 10-year lease on the 3,153 sq ft unit was agreed with Jomast in June. Since then, the frontage and interior of the unit have undergone a complete transformation.

The relocation to Elder Way has tripled the size of the business. The separate bar area has enabled owners Hannah and Gavin Grainger to expand Bottle & Thyme’s wine and cocktail menu. And just a month before opening, the couple welcomed baby Ellis to their family.

Gavin explained: “Because of the size of the unit we have been able to zone it internally which has ensured that it still feels intimate. It looks fantastic. Hannah and I are delighted at how everything has gone. The move has been really well received by our customers. We’ve had lots of bookings for the restaurant and function room. We’ve really hit the ground running.”

The new private function area, known as The Glass Room, caters for functions of up to 30 guests, Hannah explained: “Being located a short walk from the town hall, there is high demand for micro weddings, and this is already showing in the number of booking we have taken for The Glass Room. It’s a lovely space and something which Chesterfield didn’t have.”

Mark Hill, Jomast’s Commercial Property Director said: “We are delighted to welcome Bottle & Thyme to Elder Way. Hannah and Gavin have transformed the flagship corner unit of this iconic building, helping further bring our joint vision to life. Together with neighboring tenants, Premier Inn and Hotpod Yoga, Bottle & Thyme are creating a new leisure and hospitality quarter in the heart of Chesterfield. It is a very exciting time for this iconic site, and we are talking to a number of future potential tenants keen to take advantage of all that the town and the building can offer their businesses.”

Gavin and Hannah now plan to add further to Chesterfield’s food and drink offering. They have retained Bottle & Thyme’s former location on Knifesmithgate. The premises are now undergoing a. transformation into a charcuterie, cheese and wine bar, called Elder, which will open later this year.

The relocation of Bottle & Thyme to Elder Way follows the opening of Hotpod Yoga in Unit 7 in April earlier this year.

Chris Wilkinson, owner of Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield, said: “Everything is going really well with the unit and business. The location is brilliant. We get lots of walk-ins and enquiries from people who are passing. It’s brilliant to welcome another business to the Elder Way. There’s a really supportive business community developing here. We are already working with Bottle & Thyme on events for later in the year.”

Five units now remain available at Elder Way with joint agents WSB Property and FHP, reporting strong interest from a number of operators.

For enquiries or further information about the units, visit www.elderway.co.uk.

To find out more about commercial property opportunities in Chesterfield, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

man sat at table wearing smart casual clothing outside cafe

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Gym facilities to be revamped at Chesterfield and Staveley leisure centres

Gym users in Chesterfield are set to benefit from new state-of-the-art fitness equipment as local leisure centres are refurbished.

The Healthy Living Centre at Staveley and Queen’s Park Sports Centre, which are both owned and operated by Chesterfield Borough Council, will see new equipment installed that will help to enhance the gym experience.

The new look gyms will also benefit from new contemporary flooring, lighting and decor to give a fresh and vibrant feel throughout to improve user experience.

Exterior of Staveley Healthy Living Centre

During the refurbishment, each gym will be temporarily closed, but works have been programmed to ensure members always have access to gym facilities at one of the centres.

The gym at the Healthy Living Centre in Staveley will be closed from Monday 9 September and is set to reopen on Monday 23 September. During this time, gym users will be able to use the gym at Queen’s Park Sports Centre.

The gym at Queen’s Park Sports Centre will then close from Monday 23 September and is set to reopen on Monday 7 October. Gym users will be able to use the gym at the Healthy Living Centre in Staveley during this time.

Exterior of Queens Park Sports Centre

All other facilities at the centres, including the swimming pools, will remain open throughout the refurbishment period.

Following the refurbishment, gym goers will be able to benefit from an enhanced fitness experience as the council is set to launch a new app which will help with the overall gym experience and assist with individual training plans, in addition to some advanced features on a selection of the new cardiovascular equipment.

Councillor Steve Lismore, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing said: “We are committed to improving our fitness facilities for our residents to help them be healthier, both physically and mentally.

“Encouraging people to take up fitness is a key priority for the council therefore keeping the equipment at both our fitness suites as up-to-date and accessible as possible is key. We’re really looking forward to launching this new state-of-the-art equipment and welcoming everyone back to an enhanced gym experience.”

Queen Park Sport Centre gym exercise wellbeing class

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Chesterfield to welcome new board games café to town centre

Excitement is building for the opening of Chesterfield’s first ever board game café, which is on track to open in the town centre later this year.

Board & Bean will be a location for people of all ages to enjoy locally sourced food, drink and play games. The venue will also be dog friendly.

Renovations are now taking place at the café – formerly the H&F café and tearooms on New Beetwell Street.

Co-owner of the new venue, John McAssey is opening it alongside two colleagues. He commented: “We have grown up in Chesterfield and love the area. Hopefully we will bring something new and exciting to our town.

“Our games library is growing every day and we expect there to be around 500 games on offer at launch on 1st December 2024. We will have a great variety of games from classic pub games to long spanning role playing games.”

Board & Bean will also host special evening events with a focus on tabletop role-playing games, Blood on the Clocktower, miniature painting and more.

The café will boast hand crafted “proper” board game tables, which people will be able to book online. The business will be using new “Guru” software to help customers in making better gaming choices based on the player count, time available and ease of play.

Owners John, Andy and Clint are aiming to turn Board & Bean into a community hub, bringing gamers in Chesterfield and beyond together, allowing people find new games and link up with others. A membership will also be available, which includes discounted food and drink, table charges and event access. Furthermore, the business is looking to work with other like-minded venues in Chesterfield to provide benefits to members.

Renovations are starting soon to ensure disability access throughout the café. A space which is currently partially covered space twill be turned into more indoor space to allow for two rooms to game and socialise.

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield board member commented: “We are very excited for the upcoming opening of Board & Bean in Chesterfield.

“The venue will add to our town’s leisure offer, providing hours of fun and a locally sourced menu for those who visit.

“I’m positive that Board & Bean will be enjoyed by residents and visitors coming in Chesterfield, adding even more vibrancy to our town and giving people another great place to spend their free time with loved ones.”

For more information about Board & Bean, and to keep an eye on the progress during renovations, head over to the Board and Bean social media pages.

Planning a visit to Chesterfield? Find out how you can make the most of your trip by heading over to our visiting pages.

Exterior of building with mural painted on the side

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Tapton Lock Festival to return for a special one-day event

Organisers have confirmed that the Tapton Lock Festival will return next month for a special one-day event. The Tapton Lock Mini is a capsule festival that will take place on Sunday 8th September.

In April, Chesterfield-based arts charity, Junction Arts, announced that due to unforeseen circumstances, they would not be able to stage the full weekend event this year, but the organisation was keen to do something on a smaller scale for their loyal visitors to enjoy.

Project Manager, Jane Wells said. “We’re excited to present Tapton Mini for 2024! The event is small, but perfectly formed, visitors will can enjoy a trip on a narrowboat, try the ever-popular ‘Have a Go’ canoes or take part in two artist-led creative workshops and make something beautiful to take home.

“Junction Arts is also very excited to present our newly commissioned theatre piece, The Journey from Here to Now, which includes contributions from children and young people in and around Chesterfield! Adverse Camber, an independent storytelling company has created a unique and brand new promenade performance. There will be three shows throughout the day for visitors to watch, walk with or participate in!

“Junction Arts would like to reassure Tapton fans that we are already working hard planning next year’s event which will be better than ever! There will be all the things you’ve grown to love as well as some sensational new additions.”

The Tapton Lock Festival was launched in partnership with Derbyshire County Council in 2013 and became a much-loved family festival, taking place along the Chesterfield Canal near the Tapton Lock Visitor Centre every September.

Tapton Lock Mini will take place on Sunday 8th September, from 10am until 4pm around Tapton Lock Visitor Centre, all activities are free and people of all ages are invited to get involved.

Looking for things to do or places to visit in Chesterfield? Head over to our visiting pages to find out more about shops, bars, restaurants, events, attractions and more!

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

Woman dancing and clapping while another woman plays violin

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Meet the new Chesterfield bakery serving up delicious brownies

A new bakery has opened in Chesterfield, specilaising in serving coffee and decadent brownies to customers.

Located at York House, 38 St Mary’s Gate, this cozy spot is the latest addition for The Savvy Baker, which already boasts popular locations in York and Roundhay, Leeds.

After already proving popular in Yorkshire, the business is excited to bring its sweet treats to the Chesterfield community.

But that’s not all! The Savvy Baker Chesterfield is more than just brownies – the summer special drinks are already causing a stir among iced drink lovers.

Indulge in Iced Kinder, a chocolatey delight perfect for those hot summer days, or try Iced Biscoff, which comes topped with a creamy, dreamy Biscoff cold cream. For something refreshing and a little different, the Iced Raspberry Matcha is a must-try, combining the earthy notes of matcha with a burst of raspberry sweetness.

The Savvy Baker also proudly serves North Star Coffee, renowned for its rich and robust flavour.

box of sweet treats being held outside a shop

Situated in York House Business Centre, the new Chesterfield location offers a convenient and inviting space whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up or a place to relax. The shop is easily accessible, with an entrance from the street, making it a perfect stop for locals and visitors alike.

“We’re excited to expand our presence to Chesterfield and share our love of coffee and brownies with the community here,” said Savannah Roqaa Founder of The Savvy Baker. “Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where people can enjoy high-quality drinks and treats, whether they’re grabbing something on the go or taking a break from their day.”

With its central location and delicious offerings, The Savvy Baker Chesterfield is set to become a favorite spot for coffee enthusiasts and brownie lovers. The shop is open every day from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM, and until 4:00 PM on Saturdays, giving you plenty of time to drop by and experience what everyone’s talking about.

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member said: “I’m really pleased to see The Savvy Baker has chosen to open in our town centre, providing another great food and drink option for customers.

Chesterfield is home to many fantastic cafes, allowing visitors to spend time with their loved ones in the heart of our town, whilst creating jobs for local people.

“I would like to wish the Savvy Baker team lots of success in their new location.”

For more inspiration on delicious food and drink businesses across our town, along with great ideas to make the most of your time in Chesterfield, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

The Savvy Baker Chesterfield

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Hogg Norton picks up prestigious Great Taste Awards

A Chesterfield-based producer of alcoholic liqueurs has once again taken Great Taste Awards for two of its drinks.

Hogg Norton has been recognised with One Star for its Elderflower Liqueur and Two Stars for its Chocolate Liqueur.

Great Taste is the world’s largest and most trusted food & drink accreditation scheme, with products across the world being put to the test by a panel of more than 500 experts.

Hogg Norton has now won a dozen Great Taste Awards in total, after also gaining recognition in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2023. 

Mike Norton, Co-Founder of Hogg Norton commented: “We are so pleased to have won Great Taste Awards for another two products this year!! Continually winning Great Taste Awards is a fantastic way of getting feedback from the very best in the industry that we are consistently making great tasting liqueurs.

Explaining what people can expect from sampling the award-winning products, Mike said:”Our Elderflower Liqueur has a delicate and floral taste which captures the essence of summer in a bottle. This liqueur offers a light, refreshing flavour that is perfect on its own, over ice, added to Champagne or Prosecco for an elegant summery spritz, with soda water for a refreshing long drink or add to Gin or Vodka and create your own delicious cocktail.

hogg norton

“Our Chocolate Liqueur is a delicious velvety liqueur that embodies the rich essence of chocolate, offering a decadent flavour profile that delights the senses. It is delicious enjoyed neat, over ice, add to milk for a grown up milkshake, add to coffee for a delightful mocha twist, partner with a cream liqueur for a rich blend, whipped cream for indulgent topping, vanilla ice cream for a luxurious float or you can have as a versatile ingredient in cocktails and desserts, our chocolate liqueur promises a sophisticated taste journey. In the winter add some to your hot chocolate or even just drink it warm.”

Mike also told us that he still gets a buzz everytime his products are given the honour of a Great Taste Award: “It really is so rewarding that we have won awards every year since 2019 and it gives us the motivation to keep coming up with new exciting flavours.

“Living in Chesterfield it is difficult not to be inspired when you are surrounded by so much natural beauty and produce. We love getting the local community involved with produce from their own gardens. Being able to attend local events and sell our liqueurs which were made from just down the road is such a lovely feeling.”

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “A huge well done to Hogg Norton on achieving more Great Taste Awards.

The company shows off the best produce grown right here in North Derbyshire, and consistently picks up accolades for its unique and innovative products.

“A toast to many more awards in the future!”

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

Hogg Norton – Mike Norton displaying products at Chatsworth Country Fair

Mike Norton displaying Hogg Norton products at Chatsworth Country Fair 2023 – Image by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire.

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Duo make their business dreams a reality as new French Toast Cafe opens on Whittington Moor

A brand-new cafe specialising in French Toast and sweet treats has opened it’s doors to customers on Whittington Moor, adjacent to the SMH Group Stadium.

Chapter Two is bringing a unique new culinary experience to our town, creating a one stop dessert and coffee shop under one roof.

The business has been launched by Kim Greaves and Steve Oxley. Kim explained how excited she is to be launching her business in an area she loves.

“I moved to Chesterfield when I was 13 years old (Kim) and I never left. I currently live in Hasland with my two children This is my home town and a town that I love.

“Chesterfield football club is very close to my heart. I took over my late husbands season ticket after he passed away in March 2021. I have found a new passion for football and Chesterfield FC. My 10 year old son and I love going to the games. My late husband (Andrew Greaves) also has a plaque in the memorial garden at the club and it’s nice to be so close to that.

“Sheffield Road, close to the football stadium has become a very busy and popular area. We’re very excited to be a part of that.”

Chapter Two aims to create a relaxed social space, where people can gather with family and friends to catch up over a cup of something warm and enjoy a delicious sweet or savoury dish.

While French Toast is their speciality, the cafe also serves freshly prepared waffles, crepes, American pancakes, Croque Madame, Croque Monsieur, cakes, sandwiches, sausage rolls and Afternoon Tea. These can be enjoyed at any time of day, from breakfast to lunch to dinner.

Kim explained how the idea came about: “Steve and I both love french toast but not many people know that french toast can be served with a range of sweet and savoury toppings.

“Occasionally you’ll see French toast make an appearance in some eateries as a special item on a menu. We wanted to spin this around and create a full menu based around fresh toast as our speciality.”

Alongside their investment in the new premises, which sits next to The Glassworks Pub and Elevation Hair Salon, Kim and Steve have put weeks of time and effort into making their dream a reality.

Kim explains: “We have carried out all the interior work ourselves. We took on the cafe as a blank canvas. It was originally a residential building with a change of usage. We have reclaimed and recycled most of the decor and we are particularly proud of the wood features around the counter area that we made using reclaimed pallets.

“We were both nervous and excited to open our doors on Monday. As all the work has been carried out by ourselves (including Steve’s cooking) we just hoped that it would be received well by the people of Chesterfield. So far the comments and feedback have been nothing but positive.

“Opening an independent business is a huge risk. We don’t have the branding or financial resources behind us to make the business an immediate success. We value all feedback good and bad, and word of mouth is a valuable tool so if people are visiting us and talking about us, then we can continue to offer our unique French toast cafe to Chesterfield!”

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member welcomed Chapter Two to Chesterfield, commenting: “It is very pleasing to see another independent business opening its doors on Whittington Moor, bringing another unique offer to residents and visitors in our town.

“With Chesterfield FC on the doorstep and so many unique independent businesses based there, Whittington Moor continues to thrive as a destination for food, drink, and leisure.

“I’m sure you’ll join me in wishing the team at Chapter Two every success with their new venture”

Keep up with the latest updates from Chapter Two on their Facebook and Instagram pages.

Planning a visit to Chesterfield? Take a look at the best shops, bars, restaurants and attractions to make the most of your trip by heading over to our visiting pages.

Two women stood in front of logo on wall wearing aprons and smiling

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Fantastic community and charity contributions from people and businesses in Chesterfield

Chesterfield people and businesses are continuing to work together to support charities and community organisations across the town.

Our latest roundup features fabulous fundraising initiatives, support for local community groups, and more.

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “Chesterfield Champions are proud to support our vibrant community, and it is great to see businesses playing their part to help others through a wide range of initiatives.

“Our town is a great place to work and live, and one of the main things that makes Chesterfield unique is the closeness of its community.

“It is great to see Champions continuing this trend by supporting local people and charities, alongside raising the profile of our area.”

Take a look at the latest from our community of Chesterfield Champions below:

Hospice fundraiser raises record-breaking amount towards care

Group of people cheering with fundraising figure on screen in background

Ashgate Hospice’s biggest ever fundraising event, the Sparkle Night Walk, raised more than a record-breaking £340,000 for end of life care in North Derbyshire.

More than 3,400 people sported pink and flashing bunny ears at the 10km walk in Chesterfield on Saturday 22 June.

The total figure raised from the fundraiser, sponsored by NOCN, was a phenomenal £341,854– the most the walkers have ever raised after smashing the record of £317, 671 set last year.

The event will return for its 10th anniversary next year on 28 June 2025 – and supporters can register at a reduced rate of £8 until Sunday 11 August.

Director of Income Generation at Ashgate Hospice, Jack Wood said he was “incredibly grateful” for the support of the event’s participants.

“We are so overwhelmed that our amazing participants have once again raised such an incredible amount towards our care,” said Jack.

“To beat the record amount raised at our Sparkle Night Walk last year, only to do it again in 2024 is a testament to the dedication of our supporters.

“This could fund the care of one of the beds on our Inpatient Unit at the hospice for more than a year, giving patients 24/7 expert care when they need it most.

“We are incredibly grateful for their efforts and their support will go a long way towards funding end of life care and support for patients and their families across North Derbyshire.”

Plans are already underway for Sparkle Night Walk 2025, sponsored by Magpie Beauty, with super early bird tickets being sold now for a reduced rate of £8 until Sunday 11 August.

More than 1,000 people have already signed up to next year’s event, which the hospice hopes will be “even bigger”.

Jack Wood added: “This year’s Sparkle Night Walk might be behind us but we’re already working hard to make next year event better – you can register at our early bird pride for just £8!

“Will you come along to celebrate our 10th anniversary of the Sparkle Night Walk and help us break records for the third year in a row?”

The walk will take place on Saturday 28 June 2025 – sign up now on the hospice’s website.

BRM raises over £200,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support

BRM Macmillan

Leading Derbyshire and South Yorkshire law firm BRM has raised a total of £202,424 since 2015 for Macmillan Cancer Support services at the Chesterfield Royal Hospital thanks to support from clients during its annual free Will months.

Now in its ninth year, the firm’s partnership with Macmillan enables people to make a Will for free during two months of the year. Instead of paying a fee to BRM, it was requested a voluntary donation was made to the charity, with a recommended contribution of just £75 per person.

The donation will go towards supporting people and their families who are affected by cancer across the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire region and will help the charity continue providing their vital care within the community.

Paul Berresford, Executive Director at BRM, said: “We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has helped support our free Wills month in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support since 2015.

“The funds will go towards the charity and help support them continue their much-needed services across the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire community.

“Macmillan is a charity close to our hearts and we’re proud to have worked alongside them for several years.

“It’s very important to have a Will in place, as it ensures that your affairs are in order and your loved ones are provided for so it’s fantastic to see so many people who have taken advantage of our offer.

“Thank you to those who have supported our charity campaign and thank you to our expert Wills team for advising our clients on their Wills.

Hannah Lumb, Local Fundraising Manager at Macmillan, said: “On behalf of Macmillan Cancer Support, we would like to thank BRM and their clients for their incredible support to the charity.

“£202,424 is an incredible amount raised and will help those affected by cancer across our communities.

“If it were not for our amazing supporters like BRM, we wouldn’t be able to provide the vital services across the region. As a charity, we do not receive government funding and 98 per cent of our income comes from the public.

“Sadly, the number of people living with cancer is growing every day and we want to reach and improve the lives of as many of those people as we can. We couldn’t provide our essential services without the people who support us.”

“Thank you again to BRM and their clients for supporting the free Will services month – we are so grateful for every single penny raised.”

For expert advice and guidance around writing your Will, visit: www.brmlaw.co.uk/solicitors-for-you/wills-probate/wills

Chatsworth introduces affordable tickets for people receiving universal credit

Chatsworth

Chatsworth House Trust, the charity responsible for caring for the house, collections, garden, woodlands and park at Chatsworth, has announced new lower priced tickets for those currently receiving income support including Universal Credit and Pension Credit.

The aim of the new tickets is to increase accessibility for, and engagement with those who may find cost a barrier to visiting, demonstrating the Trust’s continued commitment to making Chatsworth a place for everyone.

The tickets include access to the house, garden, farmyard and adventure playground and are priced at £3 for adults and £1 for children aged 3-16 years, for those who are eligible.

Paul Hayes, Head of Visitor Strategy at Chatsworth House Trust, added: “As a charity that is dedicated to preserving Chatsworth for everyone to enjoy, accessibility is one of our main priorities, and we are always looking at new ways to remove barriers to visiting.

“This year we have a programme of events around the theme of Celebrating Childhood, so it’s fantastic to hear that so many families are already benefiting from the new tickets.

“We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience Chatsworth if they would like to, and we hope these tickets will allow even more people to do just that.”

Universal Credit tickets are available for those who currently receive one or more of the following:

  • Universal Credit
  • Pension Credit
  • Working Tax Credit
  • Child Tax Credit
  • Employment and Support Allowance
  • Income Support
  • Jobseeker’s Allowance

The tickets are only available to purchase online in advance, and proof of eligibility is required at the entrance on the day of your visit.

Universal Credit tickets are available to book on a first come first served basis and may sell out on busy days.

For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.chatsworth.org/visit-chatsworth/book-tickets/universal-credit-tickets/

BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax support Chesterfield Canal Trust

Canal Festival 2

BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax is supporting Chesterfield Canal Trust as a sponsor.

The company will make donations to the trust generated through referrals or Canal Trust supporters.

Customers just need to mention the trust, and the firm will donate 20% of the fee income arising (not including VAT) from the company’s work.

Services include:

1.  Maple Tree Wills and Estate Planning work.
2. BusinessWisetax Accountacy & Tax for Year-end accounts.
3. Sorbus Finance / The Lease Hub who arrange finance for Vehicles and Assets.

This offer will be valid for 6 months from August 1st, 2024. BusinessWise owner, Graham Nash is a keen supporter of the Chesterfield Canal Trust, and is hopeful of engaging more businesses to work with the canal.

Stepnell launches competition for local artists as part of Walton Hospital construction project

Artist Impression of Chesterfield Diagnostic Centre

As part of it’s social value commitments to NHS Derbyshire Healthcare, Stepnell is looking for artistic Chesterfield residents to design a mural for a wall in the therapeutic garden of Bluebell Ward at Walton Hospital.

It needs to provide a calming backdrop for an area where those using the service will be able to relax and undertake some gardening tasks.

The winning design will cover an area 3m x 2m and will be painted onto the wall by volunteers.

Artists are being asked to prepare their entries on A3 landscape white paper and submit a photograph of their work to eastmidlands@stepnell.co.uk by 31 August 2024.

Mayor visits Heron Publications as company celebrates 22nd anniversary

Mayor wearing ceremonial chains photographed with team members at heron

A special guest at the Dronfield offices of Heron Publications recently was the Mayor of Chesterfield, Coun Jenny Flood.

Accompanied by the town’s Mayoress, Heather Hopkinson, Coun Flood was keen to see how staff at the independent magazine publishers produce their five local magazines – Twist, Wings, Dronfield Eye, Active8 and So Bolsover, distributing them to 59,000 homes and businesses.

Founder members of the Chesterfield Champions organisation, family-run Heron Publications celebrates its 22nd anniversary this August.

The organisations featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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