Leisure

Ashgate Hospicecare director raises more than £6,000 in incredible marathon challenge

An Ashgate Hospicecare director who set himself the challenge of running 12 marathons in as many months has finally crossed the finish line – two months ahead of schedule.

Peter Stone, Director of Income Generation at the North Derbyshire charity and Destination Chesterfield board member, was inspired to fundraise having seen others go above and beyond to help fund Ashgate’s vital care.

Starting last October, the 60-year-old challenged himself to run 12 marathons in just one year – a remarkable 314.4 miles in total.

And on Saturday, Peter was delighted to complete his final marathon of the challenge, finishing at Ashgate’s hospice site in Old Brampton, Chesterfield, where family, friends and colleagues applauded him as he passed through the gates.

Thanks to the generosity of Peter’s supporters, the challenge has helped raise an incredible £6,200 towards the charity, smashing his target of £1,000.

Following the final marathon, Peter said: “My final marathon was one of the hardest yet – it included 3,500 feet of ascent and a lot of off-road navigation in the area around Tansley and Ashover.

“That, combined with hot weather, made for a tiring trip out. I am delighted to have completed the 12 marathons and I am so grateful for all the support I have received.

“I am responsible for the fundraising and retail teams at Ashgate who every year must generate around 70 per cent of the organisation’s income. I was keen to raise some funds myself – to help with fundraising and to remind me how hard our fundraisers must work to generate the money we need.

“Even as a keen runner this challenge has been difficult. The older I get, the longer it takes to recover from a marathon so trying to cover one every four weeks has been tiring. Plus, there’s been runs in the rain, sleet and snow which haven’t helped matters at all!”

From a double marathon – with no stopping– in Northumberland to a 50km run along a disused railway line in Shropshire, Peter has taken part in marathons across the UK.

He’s averaged around one marathon every four weeks – a task he admits was “tough”, but now he’s got into the routine of it he’ll find it difficult to stop.

Peter’s efforts will help Ashgate in continuing to provide caring and compassionate palliative and end-of-life care to people all over North Derbyshire.

He added: “I wanted to fundraise for Ashgate because the charity undertakes such amazing work – offering specialist palliative and end of life care to patients with a life-limiting illness and their families across North Derbyshire.

“Ashgate is so loved by the community, and this has been apparent by the level of support I have received to date. I couldn’t have asked for more from everyone who has supported me and made donations – thank you all so much.”

Have you been inspired by Peter’s fundraiser? You can run for Ashgate Hospicecare at the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K on 17th October.

To support Peter following his mammoth marathon challenge go to his JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/peterstoneag

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

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Dazzling projections to ‘shine a light’ on iconic Derbyshire landmarks

Spectacular large-scale projections will light up two Derbyshire landmarks in a new night-time attraction celebrating the county’s rich heritage this autumn.

Visitors will be able to see Derbyshire’s heritage and history of innovation brought to life in ‘Shine A Light’ – an extravaganza of light and sound taking place on four dates in October against the impressive backdrops of Chatsworth House and Cromford Mills.

Delivered by internationally-renowned Derbyshire-born video projection artists Illuminos, Shine A Light brings together awe-inspiring illuminations and projections in a visually stunning display inspired by Voices From The Peak – a celebration of the county in sound created by local poet and performer Mark Gwynne Jones to celebrate the Peak District National Park’s 70th birthday earlier this year.

Providing fun and entertainment for the whole family, the one-of-a-kind experiences have been commissioned by Derbyshire County Council to celebrate Derbyshire’s rich history and heritage while boosting the visitor economy in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Each outdoor event is a fusion of visuals, music and sound culminating in a large-scale moving animation projected onto the building every 20 minutes throughout each evening at:

  • Chatsworth, the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, on Friday 22 October and Saturday 23 October from 6.30pm.
  • Cromford Mills, home of Sir Richard Arkwright’s first mill complex, in the UNESCO Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, on Thursday 28 October and Friday 29 October from 6.30pm.

Visitors to the Chatsworth experience will be greeted by atmospheric lighting which will illuminate the route to the South Lawn, passing some of the most impressive features in the Chatsworth Garden. A large-scale moving animation will be projected onto the spectacular South Front of Chatsworth House and there will be a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks and treats available.

At Cromford Mills, visitors will have the unique opportunity to see the historic buildings, watercourse and mill yard beautifully illuminated by night. Two buildings will be used as the backdrop to the animation in the Grade I listed mill complex, which is currently celebrating its 250th anniversary, and food and drink will be available in the mill yard and at the canal-side setting of Wheatcroft’s Wharf.

Tickets are £8 for adults and £6 per child (aged 4-16 inclusive, free for 3 and under).

For more details and to book tickets, please visit www.visitpeakdistrict.com/shine-a-light.

Derbyshire County Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Leadership, Culture, Tourism and Climate Change Councillor Barry Lewis said: “We’re proud to be able to help support these unique experiences which will provide excellent entertainment for tourists and residents alike.

“We’ve brought together internationally-known projection artists and a renowned local poet and storyteller to create these fascinating events which are designed for people of all ages to enjoy.

“It is vital we support the local visitor economy to recover following coronavirus pandemic and we hope in future years to extend ‘Shine A Light’ to more venues across our county.”

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “Derbyshire is fortunate to have some of the world’s most significant heritage attractions and ‘Shine A Light’ offers the fantastic opportunity to see history brought to life in spectacular style against the backdrops of Chatsworth and Cromford Mills.

“Better still, these night-time displays offer the perfect excuse to enjoy all the Peak District & Derbyshire has to offer in autumn, from cosy places to stay to unique places to visit and great local food and drink, supporting the recovery of local businesses in the process. These events will be very popular, and we urge everyone to get their tickets as soon as possible!”

Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Canal Walking Festival ready to set off this weekend

The biggest walking festival based on a single canal in the country is all set and ready to start on Saturday 11th September. The Chesterfield Canal Walking Festival will comprise of 41 walks in all, with the last one on Sunday 19th September.

The walks cover the whole of the canal’s 46 miles from Chesterfield to West Stockwith on the River Trent. They vary from a one mile stroll to a full twenty miles. Much of the scenery is beautiful, none more so than the Giant’s Staircase of 22 locks in just over a mile between Kiveton and Shireoaks that features in several of the walks.

The festival is organised by the Chesterfield Canal Trust, whose Walks Officer, David Blackburn, said: “After last year’s cancellation, we are delighted to be back. The canal is an absolute delight at any time of year, but early Autumn possibly sees it at its best.”

There are special interest walks, such as Wildlife, History, Architecture, Archaeology and Restoration. There are opportunities to explore some of the attractive towns and villages in North Nottinghamshire or you can combine a walk with a cruise on one of the Trust’s trip boats. There is even the opportunity to learn about Geocaching, whilst enjoying the delights of the canal.

New this year is the opportunity to earn sponsorship money for your favourite cause by towing the Trust’s replica Cuckoo boat. There is even a cycle ride with a difference. Waterway and railway enthusiasts will relish the opportunity of a canal and river walk finishing up at Britain’s last surviving working Railway Roundhouse at Barrow Hill.

Pride of place goes to the 20 mile Restoration Walk from Chesterfield to Worksop. This covers the 12 miles of canal that have been restored since 1989 and the 8 miles that are yet to be re-awakened.

All the walks are free except for those combined with a boat. They must be booked in advance, either online via the Trust’s website – search for Chesterfield Canal Trust – or by ringing 01246 477569. A brochure with full details is available at various places along the canal, including Hollingwood Hub and local Tourist Information Centres. It is also available online. Some walks are already full, so it is advisable to book now to avoid disappointment.

Obviously all the walks will be subject to the latest Covid advice, so participants should come prepared with a face covering, even if it will not actually be required.

The Chesterfield Canal Trust wishes to thank all the walk leaders, the many organisations which have helped and the festival’s sponsors: the Canal & River Trust, Avant Homes, Derbyshire County Council Action Grants and Eckington, Misterton and West Stockwith Parish Councils.

Find out more about the event at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-canal-walking-festival/

Chesterfield Canal Trust supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Residents offered the chance to go ‘behind the scenes’ at iconic Chesterfield buildings

Residents and visitors in Chesterfield will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes at a some of the town’s iconic buildings this September, as part of the Heritage Open Days event taking place across the country.

Heritage Open Days take place every September and see organisations and volunteers across the country organise events to celebrate the nation’s history and culture.

To celebrate the initiative this year, Chesterfield Borough Council is opening the doors to a number of its venues for people to explore.

Mayor’s parlour and council chamber tours

Residents will have the opportunity to visit the mayor’s parlour and council chamber where the Chesterfield Mayor and Consort – Councillor Glenys Falconer and Councillor Keith Falconer – will be on hand to talk about their roles at the council, including chairing full council meetings and the duties they carry out on a weekly basis.

Two tours will take place at 11am on both Thursday 16 September and Friday 17 September and will take around an hour and a half to complete. People can register to attend one of the tours by contacting Leanne Mowbray, member and civic support officer, on 01246 345239, or by email at: Mayors.Office@chesterfield.gov.uk.  Places are limited, so booking is essential.

Revolution House

Revolution House will also be re-opening its doors and welcoming visitors back for the first time since December 2019 for two Heritage Open Days. Visitors can come along between 11am and 3pm on Sunday 12 and Sunday 19 September to find out more about the history of the House. The House takes its name from the Revolution of 1688 when three local noblemen met to begin planning their part in events which led to the overthrow of King James II in favour of William and Mary of Orange.

Entry to the House is free, but donations are welcome.

Chesterfield Museum stores

There will also be an opportunity to go behind the scenes and explore one of Chesterfield Museum’s offsite stores. On Saturday 11 September visitors will have the chance to discover some of the larger items collected by the museum that would be difficult to display in the museum itself. The tour will also explore how the museum looks after the town’s collection so the objects can be enjoyed by generations to come.

The tour will take place at Unit 1, Calow Brook Drive, Off Calow Lane, Hasland, Chesterfield, S41 0DR. Booking is not required and visitors just need to arrive by 11am to join the tour.

For those unable to attend the behind-the-scenes events, the team at Chesterfield Museum will be posting a video online which explores fascinating parts of history. Working with History’s Maid, the latest video which will be shared is ‘History of Tea’ – from Catherine of Braganaza to the two world wars, tea has been a British necessity. For more information or to view the video visit the Chesterfield Museum Facebook page or www.chesterfield.gov.uk.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Heritage Open Days provide an exciting and interesting way to learn more about key venues, the history and how they operate on a day-to-day basis so we are really pleased to be opening the doors to some of our key venues so people can explore.

“We hope that plenty of residents and visitors will take the opportunity to take a look behind the scenes and find out more about the history of our borough.”

For more information on the Heritage Open Days, visit www.visitchesterfield.info/whats-on

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Plans for new 3G pitch announced by Chesterfield FC Community Trust

Chesterfield FC Community Trust has announced plans to install a new 3G pitch on Stand Road, for the benefit of the community.

The location of Stand Road would ensure the club and the community has a facility just a stones’ throw away from the Technique Stadium, situated on Sheffield Road.

John Croot, chief executive of the Community Trust, said: “If our plans receive the go-ahead, it will be a valuable community facility, operated by the Trust.

“We will engage with new and existing groups who wish to use the facility, further enhancing our efforts to make sport accessible for all in the area.”

The Community Trust has been working to further engage local residents across Chesterfield since taking over the running of the football club in summer 2020.

Recent initiatives include a Christmas Toy Appeal, provision of free school meals for local children during the school holidays, and providing education for youngsters in local schools.

A spokesperson for Chesterfield Borough Council said: “The council is currently working with Chesterfield Football Club regarding the potential for one 3G pitch to be developed in the area.

“We welcome any developments that would bring new opportunities for the local community, however the football club will be required to go through the full planning application process before any development on the site can go ahead.

“If and when a detailed planning application is received for the site, this would be subject to consultation in line with our usual planning processes and local residents would have opportunity to make formal representation before any decision was taken.”

Chesterfield FC Community Trust supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Derbyshire Distillery raising spirits at Peak Village as new store opens

Dr Derbyshire’s Emporium is the latest new tenant to commit to the Peak Village (formerly Peak Shopping Village) retail and lifestyle destination in Rowsley, following recent store openings by Denby Pottery and Dotique, the designer fashion brand for women.

The brainchild of premium gin-maker Derbyshire Distillery, Dr Derbyshire’s Emporium will be an all-round experience for gin-lovers with sampling, personalised labelling and regular gin-related events at the store, which is due to open in early October.

Set up in 2018, Derbyshire Distillery uses traditional methods to produce high quality gins, vodkas and liqueurs using the best local and international ingredients and fresh Derbyshire water. The store at Peak Village is the brand’s first standalone retail outlet but it is already the gin of choice for many hotels, restaurants and bars in the region.

“It’s a real vote of confidence in the changes we’re making that Derbyshire Distillery, Denby and Dotique have all committed in the past few weeks. A huge amount of work is being done to improve the site and that’s generated a lot of interest from aspirational brands looking for a suitable outlet near to Chatsworth, Bakewell and Matlock. We’re expecting to announce more exciting new shops and events by the end of the year and for Peak Village to become a real ‘must-go’ destination for locals and visitors alike,” says Katayune Jacquin, Peak Village Centre Manager, who has worked at the site for more than a decade.

Situated in the village of Rowsley on the edge of the Peak District National Park, Peak Village hosts nearly 20 shops and employs between 80 and 100 people. Aiming to offer something distinctively different from traditional high streets and shopping malls, Peak Village is targeting a higher percentage of independent retail brands and operators with a strong local connection.

Peak Village was bought earlier this year by the Devonshire Group, the company that represents the interests of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire at nearby Chatsworth.

Approximately £1m has been committed to redevelopment with more than half already spent on essential repairs, redecoration, refitting of vacant units, and the landscaping of public areas with planters and new street furniture.

“The ongoing upgrade of facilities is good news for Peak Village, which was underinvested for some years previously, and it’s good news for the local economy. This investment has secured existing local jobs and is creating new jobs both directly and through the local companies and suppliers we’re working with. What’s more, Peak Village will be drawing in millions of pounds of retail revenue to the Derbyshire economy.” says Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director at the Devonshire Group.

The Devonshire Group has strong experience in retail through its existing operations at Chatsworth (the estate farm shop and gift shops) and at Bolton Abbey and is a landlord to many retail outlets across its estates in Derbyshire and Yorkshire.

Derbyshire Distillery supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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New vintage antiques store with a modern twist opens in Chesterfield

A new store trading in antiques and vintage items is coming to Chesterfield, adding yet another independent business to the town.

The Lucky Magpie Salvage will open this weekend (Saturday 4th September) following a major refurbishment of the premises on Hollis Lane Top.

Owner, Suzie Kujawinski has worked with her team in putting together a unique customer journey, featuring sections designated for different focuses. The store will sell a range of old items including: lamps and lights, military, nostalgia, signs, fairground, and Kitchenalia.

Suzie said: “I really want to make sure that The Lucky Magpie is supporting local, independent businesses and also up-and-coming creatives that have a flair for upcycling pieces.

“Whether you’ve got five pounds or a hundred pounds, it is open to everybody. So whether you just want to spend some pocket money or invest in something for life, you can find it here.

“It is about having an experience where you come in and feel like a big kid, because I think that after what we’ve all been through with the pandemic, this is what people need. That little bit of escapism where you can come in and relive memories from your childhood.

Suzie also explained why she chose Chesterfield as the perfect place to locate her business: “Everyone is so friendly and people are so welcoming. There is a real close-knit community here. I’ve worked all over and the town has a homely, traditional family feel to it.

“I feel safe going out on my own at any time. I like to have a chat with people and it is lovely when someone strikes up a conversation with you. That’s what sold it for me.”

Chesterfield boasts a vibrant range of independent and national stores, providing an enjoyable, welcoming and unique offer to shoppers. Find out more about shopping in the town here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/

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City Taxis unveiled as latest partner of Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k

City Taxis have become the newest partner of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K becoming the Title sponsor of the City Taxis Fun Run which takes place on the 10K race day 17th October 2021.

The Fun Run forms part of the race day activity and anyone can take part on the 1Km course around Queens Park and will start after the 10K race has left the park at 10am.

Sacha Skinner, Marketing Manager of City Taxis, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k.

“It will be a fantastic day and we are so proud to be supporting an event that is not only beneficial to those taking part but that is helping so many local, worthy charities along the way.

“Giving back to the communities we serve is important to us and we are committed to helping charities and fundraising. Helping raise the profile of such a fantastic, local event like the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k is important to us.

“We will also be sponsoring the event’s Fun Run which invites families and children to get involved.”

John Timms, Event Director, added: “We are so pleased to have City Taxis join us as a sponsor and have their support for the event.

“The City Taxis Fun run is an important part of the race day activity and is open to all, young and old and everyone will receive a specially designed medal.

Runners in this year’s 10K are fundraising in support of local charities; Ashgate Hospicecare, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and The Redbrik Foundation.

Entry is just £5 for the City Taxi Fun Run on race day at the race information point. You can find out more about the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-10k/

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

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Local entrepreneurs set to be recognised for hard work and resilience at 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards

The entrepreneurial achievements of new sole traders and limited companies are being celebrated in the brand-new 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards, organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with EntireFM – Complete Facilities Management.

Four businesses – CarMats.co.uk, Precious Memories by Anne-Marie, Stanedge Golf Ltd and Virtual World Studios Ltd – have all been shortlisted for the Entrepreneur of the Year award.

Sponsored by Banner Jones Solicitors, the new category recognises the achievements, leadership, vision and success of new sole traders and limited companies in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire over the last 18 months.

In addition to the accolade, the winner of the award will also receive 10 hours of free mentoring with Banner Jones Solicitors as well as a 12 months of marketing support through Chesterfield Champions with awards organiser Destination Chesterfield covering the contribution cost for a financial year.

The winner of the Entrepreneur of the Year award will be announced at a black- tie awards ceremony at the Winding Wheel Theatre on 20th October 2021.

Ash Young, Founder of CarMats.co.uk explained how it feels to be a finalist: “It’s a real honour to be shortlisted for Entrepreneur of the Year at the Love Chesterfield Awards. Industry awards are great, but there’s something special about local recognition. Chesterfield has so many great businesses and entrepreneurs; I’m looking forward to cheering for them all on the night of the awards.”

Anne-Marie Scott, Owner of Precious Memories by Anne-Marie said: “It feels very surreal to be nominated, mostly because I still have to pinch myself at times that I created not only a business from scratch but also my dream job! In the hardest year for most of the country, my business has still flourished and I was able to employ an intern to help with the demands of the growing business. Chesterfield is a wonderful market town, unique in encouraging local independent businesses, and encouraging local entrepreneurs helps to keep our much-loved town centre alive.”

Delighted to be shortlisted for the award, Fame Tate, Director and Owner of Stanedge Golf Ltd said: “I feel incredibly proud to be shortlisted for the award and to be recognised for what myself and my team have achieved at Stanedge Golf Club, particularly in such a short period of time. On a more personal level it is hugely satisfying as this is not just a business venture – it is a labour of love. It drives me every single day and it is something that I am hugely passionate about. I have said from day one that I want the club to be the best; that is something that will never change.”

Lyn Sheppard, Manging Director of Virtual World Studios Ltd commented: “I see entrepreneurship as a creative approach to developing and driving a business forward through innovation. I am extremely pleased that we are a finalist for this award. It was a very nice surprise. When lockdown forced the studio to close, it was only our ability to think creatively that enabled us to re-configure the virtual reality technology we had originally developed for film production, into effective and eye-catching virtual solutions for businesses.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield explained the importance of the new award: “Entrepreneurship plays a huge role in any thriving town or city – driving innovation, creating jobs and contributing to the growth of the local economy and never more so than during the pandemic. These businesses have adapted brilliantly to the challenges thrown at them, embodying Chesterfield’s can-do attitude. It was important to the Destination Chesterfield board that we recognised their hard work and achievements with this new award category.”

Peter Swallow Chair of Destination Chesterfield

The Entrepreneur of the Year award is one of 16 categories in the new 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management. The new awards have combined Chesterfield’s annual High Street and Food and Drink awards and also recognised the contribution of entrepreneurs, regeneration projects, apprentices and sustainability over the last 18 months.

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

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

Peter Swallow added: “It’s never been more important to show our appreciation of the business community, so we’d love for the awards ceremony to be our biggest and best yet. This can only be made possible with sponsorship.”

There are only two sponsorship opportunities remaining. If you would like to support the Love Chesterfield awards, please visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/sponsors/sponsorshippackages/ or contact Tara Underhill, Senior Destination Chesterfield Coordinator by emailing Tara.underhill@chesterfield.co.uk or calling 01246 207 207.

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Residents invited to attend civic parade to celebrate Chesterfield’s 380th mayor

Chesterfield residents are invited to come and celebrate Chesterfield’s 380th Mayor, Councillor Glenys Falconer, at a Civic Parade on Saturday 4 September.

The parade will set off from the Town Hall at 10.40am and will head through the town to the Church of St Mary and All Saints (Crooked Spire) where there will be a service at 11am, then at noon the parade will return to the Town Hall.

Councillor Falconer – who took up the post in October 2020 – will serve as Mayor of Chesterfield until May 2022, under an extended term due to COVID-19.

Councillor Glenys Falconer said: “I am honoured to continue in the position of Mayor of Chesterfield. I’m delighted that we’ve been able to start attending more events and I’ve had a great time visiting Chesterfield Pride, opening new businesses in the borough and meeting the judges for East Midlands In Bloom.

“I’m looking forward to the civic parade as it is a fantastic opportunity to meet volunteers from local youth groups and I hope lots of people will come and celebrate with us.”

In attendance at the parade will be several dignitaries from across Derbyshire, Freeman and Alderman of Chesterfield, former members of the Armed Forces, Chesterfield Sea Cadets, Air Cadets, Scouts, St John’s Ambulance, and the Royal British Legion Riders.

As a Liberal Democrat Councillor, Councillor Glenys Falconer represents Holmebrook Ward and has served as a Chesterfield Borough Councillor for a total of 13 years having first been elected in 1999. She has been a member of the Appeals and Regulatory Committee as well as the Planning Committee.

Glenys is married to Councillor Keith Falconer who has previously served as Mayor of Chesterfield, it is thought that they are the first married couple to have both served terms as Mayor.

The Mayor of Chesterfield carries out civic ceremonial duties and chairs meetings of full council. They are elected on an annual basis by full council.

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Vicar Lane encourages visitors to enjoy a ‘Blind date with a book’

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre has teamed up with The Works and Waterstones to bring an innovative initiative to the shopping centre, aimed at getting more local people to enjoy reading.

In celebration of National Read a Book Day, customers can enjoy a Blind Date with a Book – completely free.

From Monday 6th September, Vicar Lane is encouraging people to head to St James Square where they’ll find a ‘Reading Zone’, complete with beanbags and deckchairs, and the Blind Date with a Book set up.

Locals can have a read of the brief synopsis on the wrapped books, and pick one that takes their fancy.

The Reading Zone will be in situ at the shopping centre in the heart of Chesterfield for the week.

Shaun Brown, Operations Manager, Vicar Lane said ‘’We’re excited to celebrate National Read a Book Day with the launch of Blind Date with a Book.

“We all lead busy lives and it’s hard to remember to leave time for ourselves, so by setting up a Reading Zone at the shopping centre, we hope people will be encouraged to take time out of their day to sit down and read a book!’’

The latest initiative comes off the back of the popular Summer Zone at Vicar Lane, which saw residents treated to some of the best sporting action on the big screen in St James Square over July and August, along with pop-up bars and food vendors.

The centre is home to a wide range of both quirky, independent shops and cafes, sitting alongside well-known national high-street retailers. Find out more about the shopping centre here.

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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