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Dronfield Hall Barn works with local school to improve links with a range of businesses

Dronfield Hall Barn has formed a partnership with year 12 business students at Eckington School, who have been able to help the team form strong links with the local business community.

In 2019, the first group of Year 12 business students began researching how the Barn could become more attractive to business users. By understanding the needs of local businesses, the Barn has seen a gradual increase of commercial bookings in recent months. In 2020, the students’ project was handed over to another group of Eckington School business students.

This year’s group have built on their predecessors’ work, by researching over 130 nearby businesses. This has achieved firm links between the community hub and a range of local businesses from manufacturers to distributors.

Through the projects, Eckington School students have been able to develop their understanding of how businesses work. The relationship between the Barn and Eckington School is mutually beneficial, and allows students to get hands on business experience as well as developing key attributes such as leadership, initiative and communication.

Students have access to fields they are interested in and would like to pursue further. This is useful, as schools can only provide classroom education; having this business experience can make all the difference on CVs, personal statements or job applications.

This close bond played a role in the school achieving a gold award for careers education. As a result of this, Eckington School has nominated the Barn for an Education and Business Partnership Award from the East Midlands Chamber of Commerce. The Barn has been shortlisted, with the winners to be announced in October.

Every year group that passes through Eckington School will provide new ideas and unique skillsets. Although the Barn will face new challenges, the school is confident every group of its students will work hard to solve them.

In addition, it is hoped that new departments will take the opportunity to work with the Barn, with digital media or photography students helping to enhance the marketing of the Barn, to further build on the corporate links already in place.

Claire Wilks, Commercial Manager at Dronfield Heritage Trust said: “Dronfield Hall Barn and Eckington School a have worked together over a number of years now on a variety of projects. These projects have benefited both organisations and the students have gained vital skills- in terms of employability; they have used their experiences on personal statements and being able to discuss their involvement in job interviews, and their confidence and presentation skills have had a real boost.

“We look forward to seeing how we can build on the relationship in the future and the exciting projects we will undertake together!”

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.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Featured, Home, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Local Work Experience Programme a Huge Success at Vicar Lane

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre’s recent work experience programme has been hailed as a huge success, after independent retailers helped with providing a 10-week work course for learners from Shirebrook.

The programme, put together by Shaun Brown, Centre Manager of Vicar Lane, and Sandra Currey, Programme Development Worker for Derbyshire Adult Community Education Services (DACES), saw five young learners from Shirebrook work with the centre’s independent outlets (Qoozies, Nana B Baby Boutique, Shop Indie and Gorilla Garms), as well as the Centre Management team.

The programme helped the learners to broaden their horizons, raise their aspirations and understand the reality of the world of work.

Each week, the learners began their day with an introductory session at the Centre Management Suite, before heading off to work in the participating independent outlets from 10am until 3pm. They then ended the day back at the Centre Management Suite where they reflected on their day’s work.

Taking part in the work experience programme has enabled the learners to bridge the gap between their education and the world of work, and helped them to find out more about potential career paths that are open to them.

The Shirebrook learners, said:

  • ‘’The programme has gone very well, I was quite nervous at the start but once I met Shaun, I felt a lot more comfortable and as the weeks kept going, I starting to feel a lot more confident. The placement has helped me decide what I want to do in the future.’’
  • ‘’My favourite part of the placement was getting to know all the staff and being able to get along with everyone because they are so friendly – I was offered an apprenticeship opportunity, and this has boosted my confidence.’’
  • ‘’Doing this work experience has helped me gain the confidence to work with the general-public, and work in a professional manner and to be able to handle working under pressure.’’
  • ‘’I have really enjoyed the online side of the business – it has been interesting tracking the customers who shop online and sending emails to them to let them know their order is on the way.’’
  • ‘’My placement has been amazing – this programme has helped me with talking to new people and has improved my confidence.’’
  • ‘’My placement has been great! I have gained confidence and learnt how to deal with difficult situations in a professional way.’’

Carole Healey, Programme Development Manager, said: “I was extremely impressed by the care, support and professionalism of Shaun. The fact that in order to facilitate our learners to the best of his ability and support them, Shaun also undertook to gain a teaching qualification in record time!”

“The inspirational way in which Shaun engages with our young people and the staff who have hosted them in their chosen work placements, is very evident. I could see for myself the difference it made. I witnessed the increase in confidence and maturity that this programme has given them.

“I would like to thank Shaun and everyone involved in this programme. The impact on these young people cannot be underestimated and I know they will carry this experience as a positive in their lives.”

Sandra Currey, Programme Development Worker, said: “Shaun was instrumental in setting up initial meetings with the employers and encouraging them to take part in the work experience pilot and he has taken an active role each week by delivering an excellent induction and several Nearpod lessons based around health and safety to ensure that learners were prepared for the world of work.”

“Shaun went over and above our expectations and undertook the Award in Education and Training qualification before the placement started to ensure that he delivered a professional service for our learners – we can’t thank him enough.”

“Shaun has enhanced the Study Programme curriculum by his involvement and everyone at DACES hopes that the project can continue in the future.”

Bev McKenzie, Study Programme Worker and Tutor, said: “Vicar Lane Shopping Centre and Shaun Brown have been tremendous in providing our students with the best possible work placement for their Customer Service qualification and work experience.

“Shaun supported them throughout the process and communicated with the tutors regularly so to ensure the project ran smoothly. We have created a great working relationship with Shaun and look forward to working with him in Sept 2021 when our new cohort are on board.”

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

New digital hub launches to underpin policy making and investment in the Midlands

The Midlands Engine Observatory has launched the Intelligence Hub.

The new single, interactive portal provides a wealth of up-to-the-minute pan regional data, research and expert insights – a unique tool to inform decision making around key investments and policy formulation for economic and social benefit in the Midlands.

An important part of Midlands Engine Observatory’s continuing work to grow and deepen the evidence base relating to issues impacting the Midlands economy, the Intelligence Hub puts the power of data and research at the fingertips of diverse private and public sector partners from across the region, including central and local Government.

By providing up-to-date evidence and explaining the nuances and impact on the Midlands though academic insight, the Intelligence Hub offers multiple potential uses that can lead to:

  • Stronger business cases with the potential to secure greater investment for the region
  • Robust comparisons, benchmarking and forecasting to support policy recommendations
  • Evidenced regional impact insights to inform reactions to Government policy and lobbying
  • Better understanding of regional needs and opportunities to target investment for the widest possible economic and social impact

Key features of the Intelligence Hub include: new live and interactive data and Power BI dashboards; spatial visualisations; intelligence briefings; insight pieces from regional experts; and commissioned deep-dive research.

Professor Delma Dwight, Director of Midlands Engine Observatory said: “Through the insights offered in our in-depth think pieces and data, Intelligence Hub users will be able to shape policy and target investment for regional recovery and growth. Better understanding of the region’s successes and challenges will allow Midlands Engine partners to advocate for more equal growth and prosperity for our businesses and communities.”

The Midlands Engine Observatory is an alliance of leading academic researchers, and economic and industry experts, working together to deliver the regionally focused research and analysis partners and stakeholders need, for every part of the Midlands.

Microsoft Power BI vs. Google Data Studio Chesterfield course

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University receives gold Ministry Of Defence award for supporting armed forces community

The University of Derby has been awarded Gold in the 2021 Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme for its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community.

The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards and encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same.

Gold award holders must have signed the Armed Forces Covenant, employ people from the Armed Forces, hold a valid ERS Silver Award and proactively demonstrate their forces-friendly credentials in their recruiting and selection processes.

As part of its commitment to the ERS, Derby has been working to embed and demonstrate support to the Armed Forces across all levels and departments of the organisation. In 2017, the University signed the Armed Forces Covenant and reaffirmed its commitment in 2020.

The University has revised its recruitment process to ensure members of the Armed Forces are recognised when they apply for roles at the University and it supports the ‘Step into Health’ initiative with the University Hospitals of Derby & Burton NHS Foundation Trust, Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust, to encourage veterans to consider careers in the NHS.

I am incredibly proud that the University has received this prestigious award for our work with serving and former Armed Forces personnel and their families.

Dr Paula Holt MBE, Pro Vice-Chancellor (PVC) Dean of the College of Health, Psychology and Social Care at the University of Derby, who served as an army officer, has been appointed Armed Forces Champion for the institution and is working closely with a range of veteran and military support organisations and charities to ensure that there is support for veterans, reservists and cadet adult volunteers.Speaking about the Gold award, Dr Holt said: “I am incredibly proud that the University has received this prestigious award for our work with serving and former Armed Forces personnel and their families.

“As well as engaging in research we actively support veterans and their families across Derbyshire and beyond. We have engaged in employability and resettlement activities and have ensured our own policies and working practices support and encourage staff commitment to reservist and cadet activities.’’

Professor Kathryn Mitchell DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “I am delighted that the University of Derby has been awarded the Ministry of Defence’s highest badge of honour in recognition of our commitment to the Armed Forces community.

“At Derby, we are keen to attract service leavers as employees, and to encourage them to start new careers, education and training with us, recognising the outstanding transferable skills that veterans bring that can be built on in a second career.”

Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Leo Docherty, added: “I would like to thank all the organisations who have proven their support for the Defence community during such unprecedented and challenging times.

“The vast range of those recognised this year demonstrates how employing the Armed Forces community makes a truly positive and beneficial impact for all employers, regardless of size, sector or location.”

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

chesterfield college

University of Derby St. Helena Campus, Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Planning permission approved for new Saltergate apartments

Planning permission has been granted for a development of 59 new apartments in Chesterfield, based in the former headquarters of North East Derbyshire District Council on Saltergate.

Homes By Holmes, who are already working on the site celebrated the official confirmation of planning approval outside the prominent building, with catering provided by local restaurant, The Galleon Steakhouse.

Jamal Khan, Property Research Analyst at Homes By Holmes commented: “We are over the moon and really looking forward to giving this building a new lease of life.

“We have come to learn from talking to many locals that this former council building was a regular stop for the community, as it was the drop in point to discuss various issues with the council, from council tax to benefits and much more.

“We are proud that we are breathing life back into this building and once again it will benefit the local community through providing homes.”

Part of the company’s work to make the building more aesthetically pleasing was to decorate it with floral banners in time for the Chesterfield ‘In Bloom’ competition.

With just a few days’ notice, the team was able to landscape the front of the building facing out onto Saltergate, along with printing new floral banners and removing graffiti.

After being stood vacant for more than four years, the building will undergo a multi-million pound restoration over two years, with the aim of having the first properties available for occupation by around December 2022.

The restoration of the building is expected to bring several benefits to the town centre and surrounding area, including work and job prospects for local businesses in the supply chain, more footfall in Chesterfield Town Centre with residents using the local high street, and an opportunity for people in Chesterfield to get on the property ladder affordably in the face of current housing shortages.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

Vaccination rollout at the Winding Wheel raises thousands for Ashgate Hospicecare

Visitors of a North Derbyshire vaccination centre have raised more than £11,000 to help fund Ashgate Hospicecare’s specialist end-of-life care for patients and families.

More than 170,000 jabs have been provided at Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel Theatre’s vaccination centre since the rollout first started at the beginning of the year.

The Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust and primary care network were keen to further support their local communities by helping to raise funds for Ashgate.

Charity bucket yielding marshals at the Holywell Street site have collected an incredible £11,989 towards the charity’s end-of-life and palliative care, which supports patients and their families across North Derbyshire.

Local health bosses have hailed the public’s response to the fundraiser as “fantastic”, after £800 was raised after just two days.

Janet Kirk, who has been volunteering at the Winding Wheel Theatre during the rollout, is one of the marshals to have helped raise the much-needed funding.

She said: “I like to bring people’s attention to the fundraising at the Winding Wheel Theatre. You don’t know when you might need Ashgate’s services and people need to know it’s primarily funded by fundraising.

“The hospice wouldn’t be able to exist if it wasn’t for people being generous and giving what they can; it doesn’t take long before the pennies soon turn into pounds!”

Among those supporting the vaccine rollout at the Winding Wheel Theatre has been Ashgate’s retail staff, who were furloughed due to the charity’s shops being closed in lockdown.

The workers stepped forward to support the NHS with the vaccine rollout to help protect the local community and save lives.

Staff volunteered to ensure smooth arrival onsite of people arriving for their jabs, efficient patient flow to the clinical assessment and overall onsite safety and security.

Dr Peter Flann, GP and Chesterfield and Dronfield primary care network clinical director, says they wanted to support Ashgate because of the “essential care” the hospice provides to patients and families across North Derbyshire.

He said: “We chose Ashgate because of the integral day-to-day work it does in general practice and for patients who need its support across the region.

“The hospice’s skill and support for end-of-life care really is essential and should be funded as such; it offers a fantastic service that we simply cannot be without.”

Carl Jones, Fundraising Manager, at Ashgate Hospicecare, added: “We are so grateful to the staff and volunteers at the Winding Wheel for their support during the vaccination rollout in recent months.

“Not only have they tirelessly fundraised for us, but they’ve done an incredible job in vaccinating the North Derbyshire community against COVID-19.

“A huge thank you to everyone who has dug deep into their pockets to make a donation – your support means we can continue caring for the patients and families who need us most.”

Would you like to fundraise for Ashgate Hospicecare? Find out what you can do to help online at www.ashgatehospicecare.org.uk or calling 01246 568801.

Ashgate Hospicecare 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, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , ,

Community Chesterfield expands training offering

Community Chesterfield is expanding the offering of its most popular training programme by providing subsidised tickets to anyone in Derbyshire.

The project, a National Lottery funded partnership between Derbyshire Voluntary Action (DVA) and the University of Derby which supports local community and voluntary groups within the health and social care sector in Chesterfield, launched its Training and Tea sessions – 45-minute bite size introductions to a range of topics – during the pandemic.

The training has previously only available for free to University of Derby staff and students with a connection to Chesterfield, as well as those working at or volunteering for Derbyshire-based ‘not for profit’ community organisations helping people in Chesterfield.

However, some paid for tickets will now be available on each Training and Tea workshop for anyone living or working in Derbyshire.

Kate burns, skills co-ordinator at Community Chesterfield, said: “One of the key aims of the Community Chesterfield project is to upskill, develop and share knowledge within the voluntary and community sector in Chesterfield, and training was identified as a key way in which we could provide this support.

“Our Training and Tea sessions have been one of our most successful offerings since we moved to an online delivery model at the start of the pandemic. By being able to expand places on the workshops to anyone in Derbyshire, we can reach a wider demographic of voluntary and community sector groups, as well as individuals and businesses across the county who can benefit from the variety of topics we cover.

“This is an exciting development for the Community Chesterfield project and will enhance our reputation for creating exciting and innovative collaborations, providing an opportunity to expand on our already extensive network across Chesterfield.”

Community Chesterfield, which has provided a key support network for the voluntary and community sector during the pandemic, has delivered almost 1,000 training hours in the last 12 months alone, benefitting individuals from more than 100 organisations.

Subsidised Training and Tea tickets are available priced at £10 plus fees. Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.communitychesterfield.org.uk for more information.

Community Chesterfield 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, Development, Featured, Home, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , ,

Free online event set to help school leavers access apprenticeships and training opportunities in Derbyshire

A brand new virtual event is being held for young people in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire who find themselves at a careers crossroads since leaving school.

The free ‘Apprentice Town – Find Your Apprenticeship’ event is taking place on Tuesday 10 August – A Level results day and just two days before GCSE results day on Thursday 12August. It is designed to showcase apprenticeship vacancies and support available to both Year 11 and 13 school leavers.

Held online to ensure it is as accessible to as many young people as possible Destination Chesterfield is working with Chesterfield Borough Council to deliver the event as part of the Apprentice Town initiative.

To ensure the event is easily accessible, pre-registration is not necessary; it’s just a case a clicking a MS Teams or Zoom weblink on the day at www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/apprentice-town-find-your-apprenticeship

The event brings together seven apprenticeship and training providers from across North Derbyshire, including Apprentice Team, Buxton and Leek College, Chesterfield College Group, DBC Training, GBS Apprenticeships, Juniper Training and University of Derby.

During the day-long online event, which begins at 10am, each provider will deliver a 45-minute session on the wide variety of opportunities and training available. Available opportunities range from Kickstart placements and college courses as well as apprenticeship vacancies currently available in Chesterfield, across a range of occupations including Beauty Therapy and the police force as well as many more.

Delighted to be involved in the initiative Julie Richards, Principal and Chief Executive of The Chesterfield College Group said: “This event provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the benefits of apprenticeships and the wide range of opportunities available in the local area. We are delighted to be able to share the range of exciting vacancies on offer and highlight the support we can offer to people looking to develop skills whilst earning a wage and developing a career.”

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: Apprenticeships are fantastic for both the employer and employee. We’re lucky in Chesterfield that we have a strong network of apprenticeship providers, with lots of experience in ensuring a placement helps the apprentice gain new skills, while also providing support and guidance to the employer.

“There are always lots of varied apprenticeship opportunities available in Chesterfield. This event will promote what’s on offer and support both employers and individuals to access them. As an Apprentice Town we are committed to raising awareness and increasing participation in apprenticeships and we would encourage anyone who is looking for the first step into work – or a change of career direction – to get involved in the event and see what local opportunities are available.”

For a full itinerary of the free ‘Apprentice Town – Find Your Apprenticeship’ event and to access all training providers talks and Q&A sessions visit free www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/apprentice-town-find-your-apprenticeship/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

Shortlist revealed for 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards

The very best Chesterfield-based businesses and developments have been revealed by Destination Chesterfield.

35 finalists have been named in the brand-new 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards, which is set to be the first in-person awards ceremony held by the organisation since the pandemic hit in March 2020.

Recognising the heroes of the business community over the last 18 months, Chesterfield’s annual High Street and Food and Drink awards have been combined to create the new awards. After what has been a challenging time during the pandemic, the awards will celebrate the town’s food and drink and retail businesses, entrepreneurs, regeneration projects, contribution to the local community, apprenticeships and sustainability.

Members of the public nominated their favourite businesses throughout May. The nominations have now been counted and reviews have been assessed by Destination Chesterfield, resulting in a 35-strong shortlist across 12 categories.

The winners of the Love Chesterfield Awards, organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with EntireFM, will be announced at a glittering black-tie awards ceremony at the Winding Wheel Theatre on Wednesday 20 October 2021.

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield commented: “We are delighted to be hosting our first in-person awards since the pandemic hit and celebrating Chesterfield’s heroic businesses, people and projects in person once more.

“Businesses still need our support more than ever but, with most legal restrictions in the UK now lifted, I think we’re well on our way to a full recovery and thriving future for the town. We’re looking forward to recognising everyone who has played a role in the town’s economic survival.”

The businesses shortlisted so far in the 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards include:

Regeneration Award – sponsored by BHP Accountants

Chesterfield Waterside – One Waterside Place

The Glass Yard – Whittington Moor

Northern Gateway – Elder Way

 

Restaurant of the Year – presented by headline sponsor EntireFM – Complete Facilities Management

Chesters

Cocina at Casa Hotel

Lombardi’s

 

Café of the Year – open for sponsorship

The Café at Libby’s

Filippelli’s Bistro & Bar

Vintage Tea Rooms

 

Pub/Bar of the Year – sponsored by Addooco IT

The Market Pub

Rose and Crown, Brampton

The Tickled Trout

 

Food Producer of the Year (within 10 miles) – sponsored by MSE Hiller

Crooked Pickle Co

Granny Mary’s

Teresa Lambarelli’s

 

Best New Hospitality Business – sponsored by Shorts Chartered Accountants

El Café Verde, Whittington Moor (opened 2020)

The Old Post Restaurant, Chesterfield town centre (reopened 2020)

Sicily Restaurant, Sheffield Road (opened 2019)

 

Accessibility Award – sponsored by Spirecross Ltd

Chesters

Filippelli’s Bistro & Bar

Monkey Park Café

 

Retailer of the Year – sponsored by East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire)

Adorn Jewellers of Chesterfield

Dotique

Huckleberry Willow

Shop Indie

 

Best New High Street Business – sponsored by Chesterfield College Group

Lottie’s Sandwich Bar, Saltergate (opened 2020)

Clarissa’s Interiors, Vicar Lane Shopping Centre (opened 2020)

Chesterfield Escape Rooms, Soresby Street (opened 2021)

 

Independent High Street Business – open for sponsorship

Bee Orchid Home & Gifts

Fred’s Haberdashery

One Nine Three Hair Beauty

 

Excellence in Customer Service – open for sponsorship

Love Brewing

Steph’s Sustainable Stuff

The Therapy Lounge

 

Market Trader of the Year – sponsored by Chesterfield Borough Council

Brockwell Books

Ginspired

Ibbotson’s Fresh Quality Produce

Other categories in the Love Chesterfield Awards 2021 include the Sustainability Award, Community Contribution, Entrepreneur of the Year and Apprentice of the Year.

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), EntireFM – Complete Facilities Management, Greatest Hits Radio South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire, JP Fire Safety Solutions, MSE Hiller, Shorts Chartered Accountants, Spirecross Ltd and Van Dyk by Wildes.

Peter Currey, Managing Director at EntireFM – Complete Facilities Management commented: “It’s been great to be involved with the run up to the Love Chesterfield Awards and it’s exciting to see so many local businesses getting involved. Equally, it’s brilliant to see so many local businesses getting recognition for their hard work and effort that is put into delivering their products and services.”

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.”

Destination Chesterfield has a few sponsorship opportunities remaining. If you would like to support the town, 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.

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

“More Endangered than a Giant Panda” – Rare breed foal bred at Chatsworth

A critically endangered Suffolk Punch foal is now home at Chatsworth and charming visitors and employees alike as the estate’s rare breeds programme bears its first fruit.

Eugenie, the Chatsworth Farmyard mare successfully gave birth in April to a beautiful colt foal, who has been named Huxley. The pair have now returned from the stud farm to take up residence in the farmyard.

The Rare Breeds Survival Trust considers Suffolk Punch horses to be critically endangered. There are fewer than 500 purebred Suffolk horses registered in the UK now, and Eugenie is one of only 72 female Suffolk punches, making them more endangered than the Giant Panda. Huxley is one of the finest colts born this year and is a significant addition to the breeding programme.

Farmyard team member Rachel Kearsey said: “The farmyard team are thrilled to welcome back Eugenie and Huxley. Eugenie was pleased to return to the farmyard – whinnying with excitement when the trailer bought her back into the yard.

“Huxley has been a huge hit with visitors. He was very shy to begin with but his cheeky personality is now showing through.”

Huxley and Eugenie spend their day in the bottom yard at the farmyard entrance and spend the evenings out in the farmyard paddocks.

Chatsworth Farmyard is home to a number of the country’s rarest breeds of livestock and equines, including Suffolk Punch horses, Shire horses, Albion cattle, Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs, Bagot goats and Cream Legbar chickens, with British Landrace pigs and Eriskay ponies.

Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) awarded RBST accreditation to Chatsworth Farmyard earlier this year, recognising its important contribution to the conservation of some the rarest livestock and equine breeds native to the UK.

RBST is the national charity that works to secure the future of rare breeds of native livestock and equines. Chatsworth Farmyard is now part of the 25-strong network of RBST accredited farm parks which take part in crucial conservation programmes, manage special breeding groups, and support education about rare breeds and why they matter.

While Chatsworth is looking forward to being able to welcome more people back to the estate following the easing of restrictions on 19 July, the health and wellbeing of visitors and colleagues remains its number one priority. Key measures will include requiring visitors aged 11 years and upwards to wear a face covering in the house and encouraging use in all other indoor areas, such as the restaurants and gift shops

Chatsworth Farmyard and Adventure Playground is open daily. For advance tickets and opening times, please visit www.chatsworth.

Chatsworth 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, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

Love Chesterfield Community Market Launches

People are being invited to show their appreciation for local community and voluntary organisations which provided a lifeline during the pandemic, with the launch of a new Love Chesterfield Community Market event being held this summer.

The family-friendly day will give local charities, community and voluntary organisations a chance to promote their work and raise much-needed funds following the challenges of the last 18 months.

It is being organised by Chesterfield Borough Council as part of the new-look summer events programme, and will be a chance for local people to come together and say thank you for the vital support which these grassroots organisations provide to the borough’s residents.

Local groups are now being invited to book their free place at the market, which will be held in Chesterfield town centre on Tuesday 10 August.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centre and visitor economy, said: “Over the last year the community and voluntary sector has been a lifeline for our community and this is our chance to thank them and to help support their fundraising efforts to ensure they can continue the incredible work that they do.”

There will be a variety of stalls, street food, walkabout entertainment and small funfair rides. A competition for the best dressed stall will also run on the day.

Regular market traders will also be able to book a place on the Market for just £10 per stall with all money raised going to the Mayor’s Appeal, which is raising funds for The Volunteer Centre – Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire and Chesterfield Samaritans this year.

Local charity, voluntary and community organisations are being invited to take a free stall on the market to promote the work that they do and fundraise. Stalls will need to be prebooked in advance via www.chesterfield.gov.uk/markettrading.

The Love Chesterfield campaign is being run by the council and Destination Chesterfield to encourage people to discover or rediscover the great shopping and leisure experiences that the town centre and high streets have to offer, as restrictions continue to ease. People can find out more at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/love-chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

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