Leisure

Peak District & Derbyshire tourist board launches virtual Christmas market to support local business

Delicious Derbyshire food and drink, locally-made products and exciting experience days are amongst the great gifts available at the virtual Peak District & Derbyshire Christmas Market, launched by the area’s official tourist board.

The free online market at www.visitpeakdistrict.com/christmas-market showcases the fantastic variety of quality items made and sold in the area, from arts and crafts to photography, homeware and locally-brewed beer, plus gift vouchers for overnight stays, dining and days out.

Over 100 independent local businesses are exhibiting at the market, where each ‘virtual stall’ leads to an online selling platform – allowing visitors to browse and purchase fine, festive gifts with ease during Covid-19 restrictions.

Stalls are arranged in eight categories including Accessories and Jewellery; Art, Ceramics and Glass; Experiences and Annual Passes; Local Food and Drink; Homeware and Books; Landscape Calendars and Prints; Short Breaks and Afternoon Tea; and Pet-friendly Gifts.

The market is part funded by Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Project and aims to support local businesses who have been impacted by Covid-19 restrictions by boosting online sales whilst celebrating the range of unique products available in the area.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “Christmas markets are a key part of the festive season and, in the absence of many annual markets and craft fairs due to Covid-19 restrictions, we’re delighted to launch our virtual market thanks to support from our ERDF project.

“The Peak District & Derbyshire Christmas Market offers a great chance for people to buy quality gifts online and get a head start on their Christmas shopping, whilst supporting independent local businesses and producers during this critical time.

“From fine food and drink to arts, crafts and amazing experience vouchers, the market has something to suit all tastes and we’re encouraging everyone to show their support, pay a virtual visit and discover unique local presents!”

Tony King, Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Clean Growth and Regeneration, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Peak District & Derbyshire’s first virtual Christmas market.

“A lot of small businesses in Derbyshire rely on local markets to sell their goods and with many being cancelled or postponed this year it has never been more important to shop local and show our support.

“We have so many talented makers and designers in our county and you’ll be able to find truly unique gifts while at the same time supporting someone’s dream.

“We’re working hard to support businesses right now and we are doing all we can to help them through this difficult and challenging time.”

People are encouraged to get involved and spread the word using #PDDChristmasMarket.

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

Greatest Hits Radio North Derbyshire launches Mission Christmas appeal

Greatest Hits Radio North Derbyshire is asking local residents to help “make Christmas magical” this year for underprivileged children across the region, by donating gifts and funds to their ‘Cash for Kids’ charity appeal.

The radio station want to make this year’s appeal bigger than ever, with many young people and families suffering hardship caused by the covid-19 pandemic.

In 2019 £978,801 of gifts and cash were distributed to more than 31,875 underprivileged children across South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire; Greatest Hits say it is their mission to ensure no child wakes up without a present under their tree this year.

Greatest Hits Radio Account Manager, Alison Ollerenshaw said: “Mission Christmas will be more important than ever this year. COVID-19 is directly affecting unemployment levels and household incomes, pushing many more families into poverty this winter. Christmas could be a luxury that they simply can’t afford, but our mission is still to ensure that every child receives a gift from Santa on Christmas Day.”

Donations are distributed to children who have been identified by social services, head teachers and other charitable organisations.

In light of COVID-19 some changes have had to be made this year, with the need for social distancing to ensure that the team, volunteers, beneficiaries and donors are kept safe.

In previous years businesses have been asked to collect for the appeal, but to deliver the appeal safely this year the number of public-facing gift drop-off points has to be limited. A map of all the local businesses involved will be available online from 16th November.

There are also other ways for you to support the appeal this year. A cash donation would enable the charity to buy gifts where donations from the public fall short or where specialist items are needed for disabled children.  Local people and businesses are also encouraged to organise a raffle or a challenge.

Companies with a showroom, a shop window, or a wall display are being asked to feature an interactive poster featuring a QR code that people can scan with their smartphone to donate.

Whilst the number of public facing drop-off points are being restricted, workplaces can still collect gifts internally and deliver them to Mission HQ as early as possible and ideally by Friday 11th December to give the reduced team more time to sort and distribute them.

To find out how you can get involved, contact Alison via email: Alison.ollerenshaw@bauermedia.co.uk or by calling 07867 361 855. You can also contact Audra via email: Audra.sloan@bauermedia.co.uk or by calling 07812 661 675.

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

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

Ultra Refrigeration take on daring skydive for Chesterfield charity

Chesterfield-based refrigeration and air-conditioning company, Ultra Refrigeration recently took to the skies in order to raise funds for local children and young people’s disability charity Fairplay.

Ultra Refrigeration manager Steve Shipp is a qualified skydiver, with the company supporting Fairplay since 2018. Previously Steve raised £2,000 for them when he completed the Marathon Des Sables in the Sahara desert, widely regarded as one of the toughest foot races on earth.

Steve described how the rest if the Ultra Refrigeration team wanted to get involved with their most recent charity effort: “I’m a qualified skydiver and will talk about skydiving whenever given the opportunity. A number of our staff had approached me asking how much it would cost to do a tandem skydive.

“All the staff were given the option as their Christmas bonus 2019 to have a tandem skydive voucher or the cash equivalent. 12 staff opted for the voucher. The move to raise money for Fairplay was a simple and obvious next step.”

Steve also explained why he continues to support the charity: “Seeing first hand the fantastic work that Heather and her team at Fairplay do for these children and young adults is very humbling.”

The skydives were done at Skydive Hibaldstow  in North Lincolnshire. They were completed on 9th August, 29th September and 2nd October. The team managed to raise a total of £415 for taking the plunge. Team members described the skydive as “terrifying but exhilarating,” “insane” and “life changing.”

Fairplay will be using the money raised towards the expense of the trips they arrange for the children.

Steve says: “This is where they have the opportunity to experience a whole range of activities that we might simply take for granted. After the skydives were completed I visited the children and young adults at Fairplay. Some of them now want to experience skydiving too. Heather has left that mission with me!”

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

 

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Young Chesterfield rally driver claims second place in Italian rally event

21-year-old Chesterfield racing sensation Seb Perez claimed an impressive second place at the Modena Cento Ore historic rally earlier this month (October 11 – 15)), having tackled a challenging four days across idyllic Italian terrain alongside team-mate and car owner Andrew Siddall.

After taking some time out due to the Coronavirus lockdown since March and after his European GT4 Championship debut was quashed he showed that none of his motorsport talent had been lost.

The prestigious rally featured eleven special stages and three circuit races that started in the City of Rome before moving across Italy, taking in iconic race tracks on the way finishing in Modena, the home town of Enzo Ferrari.

The Derbyshire race and rally driver currently took to the passenger seat as co-driver for the second time on the event alongside Andrew in the Ford Escort RS1800 MK2 LAR 800P, the historic rally car that was driven to second place in the 1975 Lombard RAC Rally in the hands of the master of rallying himself rally legend Roger Clark.

The start in the historic City of Rome followed a parade the day before of the fantastic rally machinery that was to be thrashed over the picturesque Italian countryside.

Day one saw Andrew at the wheel to tackle the first two stages at Terminillo, the historic hillclimb site that’s used in the European Rally Championship. The pair got off to a good start finishing fourth fastest after the two stages and by the time they got to the end of the day in Perugia were 1 minute 24 seconds off the top spot but dropping to fifth.

A great start to the second day saw Siddall get the Escort back into fourth spot with Perez’s map reading skills keeping the car on the road by the end of SS3 at Colonnetta. The time had come as they arrived at Autodromo di Magione for Perez to get the gloves on and show his rival what he could do. Perez was like wildfire as the lights went out showing he hadn’t lost any of his past two years of championship Porsche Carrera Cup GB racing skills apart from racing in a 45 year old rally car on a race circuit. As usual Perez became the master at work and reworked the car to his needs that saw him take the chequered flag for a podium third place.

An ecstatic Perez sat back in the co driver’s seat and back on the maps as Siddall took to the fast twisty stage of SS4 Portole and ploughed back to take second place and just over one minute behind the leader. Next up was SS5 La Rossinata, the stage was taken a little slower but consistency ruled and second spot was not defeated.

An overnight halt in Florence for the duo was in hand and a well earned rest before Wednesdays leg of the rally.

Perez was in the seat again first thing for leg three, it took them to the delights of Autodromo del Mugello Circuit, Perez was straight into it with a practice session that saw him make good pace and up at the top. The race proved just the same with again lightning speed and precision that would have made the late Clark very proud of his Works Escort.

Fighting side by side on the curbs with the 27 cars on track Perez took the flag after the statutory 7 lap race finishing in 2nd place behind the Dansport prepared Porsche Carrera RS of Brits Philip Lawrance Kadoorie and Dan Wells.

Four stages followed, two at Passo del Giogo and the same at Cornacchiaia that saw them keep on track and consistent through and through keeping the car in second place and some fastest times thrown in as a bonus. After it was back to Florence again for another night’s sleep.

Leg 4 and last day saw two stages and another circuit race on the cards, special stage 10 was at Monte Faggiola that saw Perez and Siddall retain second slot and move onto SS11 Sambuca where again they held onto second pulling out every stop to get closer to the number one car.

Final trial of the race was down to Perez and his circuit skills, he lined up on the tarmac at Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola. Perez had another great start and for 7 laps he tried to take the car to number one but had to settle for third, 37 seconds behind the Dansport Porsche again but three podium spots out of three races was good enough to end on a high for the demanding but exciting 4 day adventure and to take second place only 1minute 58 seconds behind the winner.

The Perez and Siddall duo took honours in the final ranking at the event finish in Modena taking second overall, first on the race circuit sections, third fastest on the special stages, They also were awarded a class winner’s trophy.

Dansport from Walton Chesterfield came third in the Team Award, they prepared and made sure both the Escort of Perez and Siddall and Porsche RS of Kadoorie and Wells were in ship shape order throughout the rally.

Perez said after the Italian adventure “It was an fantastic week out in Italy. This was only my second event this year and was great working with Andrew for the second year on the rally and being able to drive in the races, Driving the car again was such a honour, it was very different to drive and there was very little we could change on the car that meant I had to drive around a lot of the cars traits to get the best out of it. I gained even more experience in the co-driving world, I have to give a big thanks to both Andrew and DANSPORT for giving me this amazing opportunity in such an historic car.”

Image Credit to Modena Cento Ore

Editorial by Paul Horton

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Brampton Manor announces innovative ‘watch out to help out’ events

Brampton Manor has announced the launch of a series of drive-in movies next month, giving local people the opportunity to enjoy cinema in a safe environment.

A full schedule of movies has been planned throughout November and in the run up to Christmas, featuring a mixture of early evening family favourites and late-night big screen classics. The audio from the films will be played through each individual car radio using FM transmitters. Tickets are now available to book online.

The schedule is as follows:

  • 5th November – Bonfire Night Special! Hocus Pocus / Grease
  • 12th November – Frozen / The Conjuring (eve of Friday 13th!)
  • 19th November – The Greatest Showman / Back to the Future
  • 26th November – Lion King / Dirty Dancing
  • 3rd December – Home Alone 1 / Gremlins
  • 10th December – Elf / Bad Santa
  • 17th December – Frozen 2 / Love Actually

In-car dining will be available with a full drinks delivery service, alongside VIP pre-show or after-show dining in the brand-new outdoor Alpine Igloo Village. The late show will also include a ‘leave your car overnight’ option for those wishing to enjoy an alcoholic drink during the screening. Guests are being asked to arrive 30 minutes before the film is due to start.

Marshalls will be on-hand to assist with parking. For those wanting to get closer to the action, there is a VIP ‘golden circle’ option ensuring you get a spot near the screen.

The manor has also announced its new Winter Igloo Village will be offering a tea-time Halloween experience for families during half-term and are now available to book online only for Thursday 29th 4-8pm and Friday 30th October from 4-6pm.

Craig Lynch, Managing Director at Brampton Manor said: “It’s an option for getting out safely. Innovation is always key. If you stand still in life, you go backwards.

“There are advertising opportunities on the big screen for businesses pre-show with a special reduced rate for Chesterfield Champions. Anyone interested should contact me directly and I’ll put them in touch with the event company.”

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

 

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

2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards winners named

Chesterfield has crowned its best high street businesses, individuals, market stall traders and events of 2020.

Independent womenswear retailer, Dotique has taken the top title of Retailer of the Year in the 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards. Judges described Dotique as ‘a fantastic business that always gives back to the community.’

In addition to the coveted Retailer of the Year title, Dotique was also named as the Fashion and Footwear Retailer of the Year. Based on Chatsworth Road, the business was established in 2018 by Dorothy Robinson.

Delighted with the double win, Dorothy said: “I am so very happy to win. I love Chesterfield and am supported by fantastic staff and customers who have spurred me on since opening the business. Thank you to everybody that has supported me and voted for me.”

Dotique was one of 15 winners named as Chesterfield’s very best shops, market stalls, events, apprentices, projects and businesses in the town.

Usually a black-tie awards ceremony at Casa Hotel, amidst the challenges of the pandemic this year’s awards ceremony was held online and hosted by street magician Steve Faulkner.

Previously known as the Chesterfield Retail Awards and now in its seventh year, this year’s High Street Awards saw a number of new names and faces in the winners’ line-up. Pinewood Properties, Curious Goods, Huckleberry Willow, Steph’s Sustainable Stuff, Warhammer and Shop Indie were all first-time winners in the awards.

Tara Underhill, Senior Destination Chesterfield Coordinator and organiser of the annual awards said: “Despite the challenges that Covid presented to this year’s Chesterfield High Street Awards, they are certainly the most memorable.

“Never have high street businesses needed our support more. It was an honour and a privilege for the Destination Chesterfield team to be able to organise an event to celebrate this hard-working sector. Each and every business and individual on our high street deserves both recognition and support. Well done to everyone involved.”

Cllr Amanda Serjeant, Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield and Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, added: “It was a pleasure to be able to join everyone virtually for the Chesterfield High Street Awards 2020. What a year it has been. Yet the people behind the town’s high street businesses have shown such resilience.

“It is crucial that we all get behind local businesses during this time of uncertainty and beyond. Chesterfield Borough Council has adopted an ambitious plan to support and rebuild the local economy. Without a doubt, further challenges will lay ahead. But we will continue to work closely with Destination Chesterfield and Chesterfield Champions to promote the town as a place to work, live, visit and invest. We will also continue to collaborate with local businesses, invest in our economy, showcase our successful businesses and everything that is great about Chesterfield.”

Dorothy added: “It was lovely to be part of the awards. Thank you everybody. It’s important that everybody supports each other.”

The winning businesses, individuals and events in the 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards include:

Fashion and Footwear Retailer of the Year and Retailer of the Year 2020
Dotique

Dorothy Robinson, owner of Dotique said: “I am so very happy to win. I love Chesterfield and am supported by fantastic staff and customers who have spurred me on since opening the business. Customers are at the heart of everything that we do and we’re constantly striving to improve the customer experience. Thank you to everybody that has supported me and voted for Dotique.”

Hair and Beauty Business of the Year
Belle Vie

Belle Vie scooped the award for the second year running. Alysha Bradley, owner of Belle Vie said: “It feels amazing to win the award for the second year in a row. Our clients have been so supportive this year. Thank you to them and the team.”

Food and Drink Retailer of the Year
Brampton Brewery

Chris Radford, Managing Director of Brampton Brewery, said: “Although we’re operating in difficult times, we love working in the industry. All the team is passionate about what we do and I think that comes through when we’re serving customers.”

High Street Business of the Year
Pinewood Properties

The business really stood out to the judges for its speedy response on social media. Stacey Davies-Bowler, Managing Director of Pinewood Properties, said: “We are so pleased to win. The last three years have been incredible. We’ve won virtually every customer-service award in our industry. We do ordinary things exceptionally well. We are made up to win the Chesterfield High Street Award.”

Home, Gifts and Leisure Retailer of the Year
Huckleberry Willow

The store was commended by judges for having helpful and knowledgeable staff. Luke Shah, Managing Director of Huckleberry Willow said “We are delighted to win the award. It was very unexpected. We’re a family business and have been in Chesterfield since 1976. It is amazing to have the support of our customers.”

Market Trader of the Year
Steph’s Sustainable Stuff

Owner of the first zero waste stall on Chesterfield’s Saturday’s Market and monthly Artisan Market, Steph Mannion, said: “The award puts green shopping on the map in Chesterfield. It is awesome to be recognised for bringing zero waste shopping to Chesterfield. I am so proud of Chesterfield and the market. There is no need to go to a supermarket. From meat, veg and dry goods to toiletry and household refills and environmentally friendly products -Chesterfield’s market has it covered.”

Independent Retailer of the Year
Fred’s Haberdashery

Judges praised the business’ use of technology to connect people online. Emily Lord, owner of Fred’s Haberdashery said: “We were really surprised and shocked to win. It feels great after so much hard work. Having taken over the business in February just before lockdown, we’ve had to work really hard to get the website and social media up and running but it has helped keep us connected to our customers and enabled them to keep crafting.”

National/Multiple Retailer of the Year
Warhammer

The friendly and knowledgeable service at Warhammer stood out for the judges. Andrew Ward, manager of the Warhammer store in Chesterfield, said: “I was really chuffed to win. We’re a unique store in the town with knowledgeable staff all committed to giving customers a really great experience when they visit us. We are really grateful to all our customers for their support.”

Retail Apprentice of the Year
Molly Bradbury, Arvato

Lindsey Phillips, Senior Rent Officer at Arvato CRM Solutions UK commented: “I am so very proud of Molly as she is a huge asset to our department and is so deserving of this award. I have no doubt that Molly will continue to grow and I look forward to supporting and working with her in the future. She is an exceptional member of our team.”

Apprentice Employer of the Year
Therapy Lounge

The beauty business, which is based in Hasland has employed apprentices for more than 10 years. Rebecca McNair, an apprentice beauty therapist at Therapy Lounge, said: “We were delighted and surprised to win the award. We’ve all been working so hard to do the best we can for our clients during Covid.”

Best Customer Service
Curious Goods

Owner Jonny Kudibal said: “It’s fabulous to win. We sell a lot of holistic and alternative therapy products so it’s important we give the right advice to help customers make the best decision. We have great staff who have been with us for a number of years and they really do try to make a difference to all our customers. Thank you to all our customers supporting us through Covid.”

Best Town Centre Event
Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival

Organised by Edge Events, this is the second consecutive year the Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival has won the Best Town Centre Event category. Richard Alsop, Managing Director of Edge Events, said: “We are so proud to receive this award. We always put our heart and soul into the Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival and it is so encouraging to have the support that we do from the public, the traders and the council.

“It has added an extra bit of specialness to the award receiving it during the tough times our industry is currently facing. We look forward to organising a great festival, hopefully in 2021.”

Future High Street Award
Vicar Lane Shopping Centre Big Screen

Sarah Bowler, Office Administrator and Commercialisation Coordinator at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, said: “We’re over the moon to have won the Future High Street Award for our Big Screen.

“The installation of the screen is one of the latest improvements that Alterx, our owners, have made to the shopping centre since purchasing it in December 2018. With it we hope to create an animated focal point and lively meeting place for visitors and shoppers to socialise and spend time within the town centre. We’re also working with local partners to help promote businesses within the area and push out key messages about the town centre and all of the wonderful things happening around us.”

Best New Store
Shop Indie

Lisa Swift, partner at Shop Indie which opened in October last year, said: “We were really delighted when we heard our name called out at the awards. It’s lovely that the people of Chesterfield have really taken on board our shop and love our products. It’s nice to offer Chesterfield something different.”

The 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards were supported and made possible by a number of sponsors, including Adorn Jewellers, Apprentice Town (led by Chesterfield Borough Council), BRM Solicitors, Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College Group, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), eBusiness Works, Greatest Hits Radio (North Derbyshire), JP Fire Safety Solutions, Maybe*, The Pavements Shopping Centre, Q2 Creative and Redbrik Estate Agents.

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

Dronfield Hall Barn to strengthen ties with local business community

A National Lottery Heritage Fund grant has been awarded to The Dronfield Heritage Trust for work on a campaign to attract more commercial users to Dronfield Hall Barn.

The High Street heritage building is home to a wide range of arts, cultural and community events as well as having an outdoor and indoor coffee shop.

The Trust has appointed PR consultant Louise Third MBE who is originally from Holmesfield to work with the DHB managers and current business partners to shape the new plans.

Alan Powell, chair of the Dronfield Heritage Trust, believes the new commercial landscape presents the perfect opportunity to plan ahead and offer somewhere unique where businesses can work and meet.

“If the past few months have taught us anything, it is that we need to adapt and serve our community in different ways. During the Covid lockdown, we stayed active by putting many of our activities online and our home grocery delivery service proved vital to many Dronfield residents.

“We now we feel we can do even more to maximise our brilliant facilities and at the same time help the business community as they continue the process of recovery. Put simply, the more activity we can generate, the more sustainable The Barn becomes for the future.

He added: “Louise has been a Friend of DHB for several years and brings strong commercial and creative expertise to this project. Back in 2004 she handled the press work when Sainsbury’s gifted the Barn and has followed our progress ever since.”

Covid-related travel and social distancing restrictions are placing more pressure on employees to work closer to home, and on businesses to find alternative places to meet. This project will look into how the Dronfield Hall Barn might help solve some of these issues for Sheffield and north Derbyshire businesses and other organisations.

Louise is keen to hear from local business owners and managers who can help her research. “I used to work in Sheffield and my family was well-established in the business communities of the city and north-east Derbyshire. So it is a privilege to be back working in a familiar part of the country.”

Anyone interested in talking to Louise can email her at louise@louisethird.com or message via LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisethird/

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

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Stephensons Tea and Coffee House introduce “work from home, but away” scheme

With half term fast approaching, Chesterfield tea and coffee house Stephensons are introducing a creative new idea to help those in need of a quiet and productive space to do their work over the holidays and beyond.

Staff there have set up the “working from home, but away” initiative to help those struggling to find the peace and quiet needed to carry out their jobs.

Anyone who books a “working from home, but away” table will receive a hot drink on arrival, breakfast or lunch with a hot or cold drink, and a piece of cake or scone when in need!

All tables in the tea and coffee house are situated near power points and WIFI is available too, meaning customers will have everything required to set up their own workstations.

The prices for half term are as follows…

  • Breakfast sessions from 9.30 – 11.30, £11.95
  • Lunch sessions from 12.00 -2.00, £13.95.

In addition, dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, dairy free and gluten free will all be catered for.

Stephensons Tea and Coffee House owner, Claire Wood said: “We are constantly trying to think of new ways that not only help our business, but also support the people of Chesterfield.

“If you are working at home, it is not always easy to be totally motivated and focused, and there could be distractions, particularly during half term. I also think, for our emotional well-being, a change of environment, with high quality food and drink, in a safe environment is a well deserved treat.”

Limited tables are available, so staff are asking those interested to request a “Work at Home, but Away” table when booking. You can book by calling 01246 205111 or by contacting them online.

Stephensons Tea and Coffee House supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Destination Chesterfield celebrates 10 years with message of positivity for the town

Chesterfield could be set to repeat history and, once again, come out of a global recession stronger.

This month 10 years ago, amidst a global financial crisis, a marketing campaign was established to promote Chesterfield to potential investors. Since its launch, it has supported Chesterfield Borough Council and its Economic Growth team in securing more than £1bn of investment into the borough.

To mark the anniversary, Destination Chesterfield was celebrated recently in a special online breakfast event, hosted by Virtual World Studios, virtually attended by more than 40 people.

At the event, future marketing plans were unveiled detailing how the town, as a whole, can come back stronger from the Coronavirus pandemic.

At the event it was revealed that community, distinctiveness, sustainability and growth will be core to Destination Chesterfield’s marketing campaigns for the town. Two brand new campaigns – Sustainable Chesterfield and Experience Chesterfield, will also join long-running, successful projects and events, including Made in Chesterfield and Celebrate Chesterfield.

Peter Swallow, who was appointed Chair of Destination Chesterfield when it was established in 2010 said: “I am confident Chesterfield can come back stronger from this pandemic. Ten years ago we were in a recession and Chesterfield Borough Council took the bold move of establishing Destination Chesterfield – sending out the message that the town was ready and open for business.

“Now we have more than £1bn of developments and more on the horizon, including HS2 which is already attracting investors to the town putting us in a strong position coming out of the pandemic.”

Since the Destination Chesterfield campaign was launched, declaring Chesterfield open and ready to do business, the town has attracted more than £1bn of investment, with the borough now home to some of the UK’s largest and exciting regeneration, industrial and leisure schemes at PEAK, Markham Vale and Chesterfield Waterside.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “The past few months have been incredibly difficult for many of our local businesses. Rebuilding the local economy is a top priority for Chesterfield Borough Council and together with Destination Chesterfield, we have already implemented a number of financial and promotional measures to help our businesses through these challenging times. By working together, we can ensure that Chesterfield continues to be a thriving borough.

“Over the past 10 years, Destination Chesterfield have really helped us to reinvigorate the town. We’re look forward to continuing to work closely with the team at Destination Chesterfield as we look to build on the strong relationship that we’ve had for the past decade, one that will put us in a strong position to keep moving the borough forward.”

Destination Chesterfield has also created a supportive network of businesses, education providers and charities, known as Chesterfield Champions, who are all united in their desire for Chesterfield to thrive. The Champions network remains crucial to Destination Chesterfield’s future plans.

Peter added: “The Chesterfield Champions are intrinsic to the success of Destination Chesterfield. Their support and active involvement makes Destination Chesterfield happen and allows us to push forward the marketing of the town, as well as offer business support though during good and tough times. The facts really do speak for themselves. Together we make a difference.”

If your organisation would like to become a Chesterfield Champion, please visit www.chesterfield.co.uk or get in touch on 01246 207 207.

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Leading industry figures to attend Peak District & Derbyshire tourism conference

Tourism, hospitality and leisure businesses across the Peak District and Derbyshire are invited to attend Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s Annual Tourism Conference on Thursday 5 November 2020.

The fully-funded virtual event will bring together leading industry figures from across Derbyshire and beyond including keynote speakers Tourism Minister, Nigel Huddleston MP and Simon Calder, Senior Travel Editor of The Independent.

Delegates will gain valuable insights from Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council; Brendan Moffett, Director of the Centre for Contemporary Hospitality and Tourism at the University of Derby; national tourist body VisitEngland; and Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire.

As businesses continue to weather the ongoing coronavirus crisis, the conference will shine a light on the biggest issues impacting tourism, the latest consumer trends and the work being done to secure the industry’s long-term future – with plenty of opportunity for engagement and questions.

Delegates are invited to register for a fully-funded place at the event, which is supported by Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Project.

Register for the Peak District & Derbyshire Annual Tourism Conference (10.30-13:00) using the following link: http://ow.ly/4Y8N50BT7if

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “We’re delighted to invite delegates to join us at our Annual Tourism Conference which is supported by our ERDF project. As the industry continues to face some of its biggest-ever challenges, now more than ever it is critical that we all work together to ensure our collective voice is heard.

“In the presence of leading industry experts and key national figures, the conference will provide a great opportunity for businesses to raise the issues that matter to them most, to gain useful insights into local and national trends, and to learn about the critical plans to support the sector’s recovery.”

Tourism is usually worth £2.3 billion to the Peak District & Derbyshire economy, supporting over 30,000 jobs and boosting growth.

Posted in Business, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , ,

Chesterfield residents must follow stricter local rules from Saturday

Residents in Chesterfield are being urged to follow stricter rules coming into force from Saturday 17 October, in a bid to slow the rise in coronavirus cases.

Speaking in the Commons today, Secretary of State for Health, Matt Hancock MP, announced that Chesterfield – along with North East Derbyshire and Erewash – will be put into Tier 2 of the government’s Covid alert system – and will be placed on ‘high’ alert from 12.01am on Saturday.

It follows a review of the local situation by Government, in liaison with the Chesterfield Borough Council and neighbouring North East Derbyshire District Council, Derbyshire County Council and local MPs.

As well as following the continued guidance to wash hands, stay apart and wear a face covering it means:

  • Different households or support bubbles should not mix indoors – at home, someone else’s home, pubs, restaurants, hotels or other hospitality venues, leisure venues or shops
  • When outdoors people should stick to the rule of six, including children.
  • If going on holiday, this should only be with the people they live with or that are in their support bubble
  • Family and friends can provide informal childcare as part of a childcare bubble – the bubble is limited to two households only so that informal childcare is provided by the same carers each time
  • Only visit care homes in exceptional circumstances
    All businesses, leisure facilities and other places which are allowed to open by law can remain open providing they meet Covid-19 secure guidance
  • Pubs, bars restaurants and other hospitality venues close at 10pm – drive-through services, click and collect and delivery services can continue after 10pm
  • You can take part in sport and physical activity outdoors but organised indoor exercise classes are only permitted if it’s possible to avoid mixing with people you don’t live with or share a support bubble with – there are exceptions for children and people with a disability

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “Nobody wants to see stricter lockdown measures brought in locally but the health and safety of our communities, particularly our most vulnerable, must be our priority.

“We understand that this is a concerning time for our residents, and our business community. But local infection rates are too high and are rising so it is critical that we act now to help stop the spread.

“Each and every one of us has a part to play in controlling the spread of this virus – I urge everyone in Chesterfield to make sure they are familiar with the new restrictions, check their behaviour and make sure they are doing all they can to protect themselves, their families and the communities in which they live and work.”

Derbyshire’s Director of Public Health Dean Wallace, who is leading the county’s response to the outbreak, urged people to follow the tighter ‘lockdown’ rules.

“We all have a duty to do everything it takes to stop the spread of this highly contagious virus.

“The steep rise in the numbers of cases is deeply concerning, although not surprising given Chesterfield and North East are so close to Sheffield, and Erewash borders Nottinghamshire, which are all currently on ‘high’ alert and under extra restrictions. It’s more important than ever that we all work together to beat this.

“I’m really proud of the way Derbyshire communities have supported each other through this epidemic but this isn’t over – we simply can’t afford to take our eye off the ball.

“I realise that these extra restrictions for these areas will be frustrating but they are also necessary as we’re seeing a lot of community transmission.

“I cannot emphasise enough that from Saturday people from different households should not be mixing indoors, unless it is with people who are in their ‘bubble’ and they should stick to the ‘rule of 6’ when outside.

“I know it’s difficult but I’m asking everyone to summon their famous Derbyshire spirit and play their part to keep themselves, their family, friends and colleagues safe.”

For more information about local restrictions please visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/coronavirus

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

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