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Chatsworth reveals unique festive theme for this year’s celebrations

An original new festive story, written exclusively for Chatsworth by multi-award winning children’s author and former children’s laureate, Joseph Coelho OBE, is the backdrop to this year’s Christmas at Chatsworth celebrations (9 November – 5 January).

‘Henry and the Lion’s Christmas Feast’ is an enchanting story inspired by Chatsworth and the life and work of Henry Cavendish, the eminent eighteenth-century scientist and grandson of the second Duke of Devonshire.

The book tells the tale of young Henry and his accomplice, a little lion, inspired by the giant stone statues in the Sculpture Gallery at Chatsworth, as they go on a quest to find a festive feast and the adventures they encounter along the way. The house and garden will be transformed into a magical adventure where visitors can follow in the footsteps of the story’s protagonists, with scenery and decorations incorporating the book’s illustrations, created by award-winning illustrator Vivien Mildenberger.

Visitors of all ages will be able to spot the characters as they journey through the house, with a menace of mischievous mice hiding along the route, carrying food to the feast. Guests are also invited to hunt for the little lion himself as they make their own way to the banquet, laid out in the Great Dining Room.

By drawing on the life and scientific experiments of Henry, often referred to as the man who weighed the world, the story aims to inspire visitors to question their surroundings and see things from a new perspective. Instruments from Henry’s famous experiments, which form part of the Devonshire Collections, will also be on display.

Pop up theatres, which have been crafted in partnership with London’s oldest toymakers, Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop, will also bring the story’s illustrations to life, with a special example in the Great Chamber allowing visitors to step inside the story and see things from the lion’s point of view.

The experience is set to be a feast for the senses, as Chatsworth’s collaboration with fragrance experts will mean visitors are met by their favourite festive scents along the way, from chocolate and gingerbread to the smells of a Christmas kitchen.

The celebration continues in the garden, where an illuminated light trail will embrace some of Chatsworth’s best-loved garden landmarks. Following the popularity of last year’s giant animated projection on the house, Derbyshire-based digital artists Illuminos have again been commissioned to create a brand new projection for 2024, which will bring the characters from the book to life.

Susie Stokoe, Head of Textiles at Chatsworth, commented: “We’re thrilled to have worked with Joseph Coelho for this year’s Christmas experience, creating a magical new festive story that celebrates Chatsworth’s history and collection.

“2024 is a year of celebrating childhood at Chatsworth and we’ve been encouraging visitors to look at things from different perspectives. Our Christmas experience this year continues that theme, from taking on the view of the brave little lion to the visionary thinking of Henry Cavendish.

“We can’t wait for our visitors to immerse themselves in this exciting story of friendship, discovery and feasting, and see Chatsworth in a new festive light!”

Joseph Coelho, author of ‘Henry and the Lion’s Christmas Feast’ said: “It was such a wonderful challenge to be invited to write a new book that would inspire the Christmas decorations at Chatsworth this year.

“I was really captivated by the life of Henry Cavendish and his amazing scientific experiments, and I got great ideas from visiting the house and grounds, especially going through the Sculpture Gallery when I saw the two great lions. I thought how interesting it would be to put the Chatsworth lion and Henry Cavendish face to face and give them a little adventure together.

“I hope that visitors come to Chatsworth and, seeing the decorations, are inspired by all the Christmassy mischief that Henry and the lion get up to and leave with that excited bubbly feeling you get when you know that Christmas is around the corner.”

Christmas at Chatsworth takes place from 9 November 2024 to 5 January 2025, and tickets must be booked in advance. Tickets provide admission to the house, garden, farmyard and playground, as well as parking. A programme of festive events is taking place throughout the season, including Storytime with Father Christmas at the Farmyard from 6 – 23 December, where younger visitors can enjoy the story of Henry and the Lion.

Chatsworth’s annual Christmas market also returns from 9 November to 1 December, with more than 100 exhibitors offering festive-themed gifts, foods and drink. Chatsworth’s Orangery and Stables shops will be open all season, with Christmas gifts, homewares and clothing made by some of the region’s finest sustainable producers, designers and craftspeople.

More information about the Christmas experience, other festive events and ticket details can be found online at https://www.chatsworth.org/events/christmas/

Every penny generated by ticket sales and membership goes directly to the Chatsworth House Trust charity, which is dedicated to looking after the house, collections, garden, and parkland, for everyone.

Chatsworth Lights exterior

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Champions celebrate new hires, awards and major deals

Businesses in our town’s network of Chesterfield Champions continue to celebrate growth and success.

Our latest roundup includes new hires for Banner Jones Solicitors, BHP and Oasis Studio.

Elsewhere, Shorts has played a vital role in advising on a major business acquisition, and a Chesterfield-based apprentice has scooped a prestigious award.

Read the latest successes from our Champions below:

Banner Jones Expands Residential Property Department with Three Key Appointments

banner jones new appointments

Banner Jones, a leading regional law firm, has significantly strengthened its Residential Property department with the addition of three new hires. This expansion supports the firm’s ongoing efforts to enhance its service offering amidst a growing demand for residential property services.

The team welcomes Sarah Khatib, an experienced solicitor with over 16 years of expertise, who joins as a Director. Sarah will be based in the Chesterfield office, where she will work closely with Richard Joy and Kate Skelton to support the management and development of the residential property teams.

Her extensive knowledge will play a key role in advancing the firm’s service delivery and operational processes in the firm’s  key localities of Derbyshire, South Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire.

In addition to Sarah’s appointment, Banner Jones has also brought on board Dana King, a paralegal, and Roberta Griffin-Pygott, an experienced Conveyancer and Legal Executive, to the Residential Property department in Sheffield.

Both bring substantial experience and expertise that will further elevate the firm’s ability to meet client needs.

This strategic expansion follows a period of sustained demand for the firm’s residential property services. Over the past year alone, the Residential Property team has successfully handled more than 3000 new residential property matters. The new appointments are a direct response to increased demand in the property markets locally, ensuring that Banner Jones can continue to provide exceptional service to its growing client base.

Richard Joy, Head of Residential Property at Banner Jones, said: “I am thrilled to welcome Sarah, Dana, and Roberta to our teams in Chesterfield and Sheffield.

“Their combined experience will be instrumental in helping us continue to grow and meet the evolving needs of our clients. I am confident that their expertise will contribute significantly to the expansion of our services.”

Commenting on her new role, Sarah Khatib said, “I am excited to join Banner Jones at such a pivotal time. The firm’s reputation for delivering excellent client service is well-known, and I look forward to working with the team to continue providing high-quality residential property services. The growing demand for our expertise presents an exciting opportunity to further develop the department, and I am eager to contribute to its continued success.”

Banner Jones operates from offices in Chesterfield, Sheffield, Dronfield and Mansfield, serving clients across the region and the rest of England and Wales. They manage a range of property transactions including buying, selling, transfer of equity, re-mortgage, right to buy, help to buy and equity release.

Chesterfield apprentice named as Newcomer of the Year in LABC East Midlands Building Excellence Awards 2024

DBCP Charlotte Gladwin

A Chesterfield building control apprentice has been named as the industry’s Newcomer of the Year in the LABC East Midlands Building Excellence Awards 2024.

Charlotte Gladwin (22), a Level 4 apprentice with DBCP, started her five-year Building Control surveying Degree Apprenticeship last year after making the transition from retail management.

The LABC award recognises Charlotte’s exceptional proactivity, dedication, and customer-focused approach.

She said: “I am delighted to win the award at this early stage in my career. The opportunities provided by the team at DBCP are so exciting. I’m really enjoying being out on site and being part of a process that creates positive change in the local landscapes for our communities.”

Prior to joining DBCP, Charlotte was pet shop store manager for three years. Keen to move out of retail and, with an interest in construction and the outdoors, she identified Building Control as the ideal profession in which to build a career.

Explaining why she made the move into building control, she said: “I really enjoyed studying Geography, Psychology and Business at A-Level and, together with my love of the outdoors, I felt that a career in building control aligned with my future ambitions.”

DBCP’s Building Control Manager, David Pratt praised Charlotte’s dedication to her apprenticeship saying: “Charlotte quickly demonstrated her ability to support building inspectors by anticipating their needs, preparing for site visits, and actively contributing to inspections. Her attention to detail and eagerness to learn have made her a valuable asset to the team. Her commitment to excellence is evident in her work, both on-site and in her college studies, where she consistently aims for distinction.”

In addition to Charlotte, David Pratt was also recognised in the prestigious awards when he clinched the Public Service Superstar Award.

With a career in building control spanning more than three decades, LABC judges praised David ‘unwavering dedication to professional development and his commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning within DBCP’, adding that ‘his leadership by example, from passing Level 6 courses with distinction to providing invaluable guidance on officer validations, has helped to set the high standards at DBCP.’

His forward-thinking approach, which saw the introduction of the company’s successful Apprenticeship scheme, and the development of a training partnership with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), has been instrumental in transforming the company.

Further success for DBCP at the annual industry awards came when Oak Grange Primary School in Derby was named as the Best Public or Community Building.

DBCP, worked alongside Lungfish Architects and Morgan Sindall to deliver the multi-million-pound school in 2023. Collaboration between DBCP, the architects, and contractors ensured the school’s design met aesthetic and functional goals, making it a valuable addition to Derby’s educational resources. The school was also delivered on budget despite rising material costs and also saving 10 tonnes of CO2 during construction.

David, commented: “I am honoured to have won the award but equally delighted to see Charlotte, and DBCP’s projects recognised. It is a tremendous achievement for everyone.

“All the wins reflect our combined commitment to excellence in building control and our dedication to supporting high-quality, sustainable construction projects throughout Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands.”

David, Charlotte and Oak Grange Primary School were amongst 12 winners at the awards in August. The annual awards celebrate significant achievements within the construction industry, rewarding excellent buildings, outstanding companies, as well as partnerships and individuals that go the extra mile.

All the winners from LABC East Midlands Building Excellence Awards 2024 will now go forward to the national LABC Building Excellence Awards grand final which take place in London on Friday, 24 January 2025.

BHP appoints new CIO as it looks to harness disruptive technology

BHP Melanie pictured with CEO

BHP, one of the North’s leading accountancy firms, has appointed Melanie Foster as its first Chief Information Officer (CIO), as the firm looks to harness the power of technology to support its clients’ objectives.

Melanie, who has held a number of senior technology positions within the financial services sector, brings with her almost two decades of experience in technology innovation and integration.

In her new role, she will work alongside the wider team to develop and progress the company’s data and technology strategy, keeping it at the forefront of new tools and advancements, including AI, to support both internal processes and client services.

Commenting on her appointment, Melanie said: “I’m pleased to be joining BHP as the business continues to thrive and deliver results for its clients across the North. I was attracted to the organisation due to their culture and values and ever since my first engagement with the Leadership Team have been impressed by their commitment to living those values.  With the huge technological advancements over the last 5 years, including AI, I believe we can make transformative changes to our colleagues efficiency and hence the level of value provided to our clients.”

“I look forward to working with Hamish, Lisa and the Leadership Team to look at how BHP can best leverage these for the benefit of businesses across the UK.”

Lisa Leighton, joint CEO of BHP added: “At BHP we are committed to offering our clients tailored, trusted and transformative services and one way in which we do that is through embracing technology. Appointing BHP’s first CIO demonstrates our commitment to investing in the future and staying at the forefront of the industry, which must continuously reflect and integrate technological advancements.”

“I’m excited to see how Melanie and the team further develop our technology and AI strategies as we look to embrace developments which will be used as an enabler to our talented teams of specialists.”

Shorts advise on major business acquisition

DTS Warehouse

Chesterfield accountancy practice, Shorts, has acted as advisor on a large business sale, as Dinnington-based company Direct Track Solutions Ltd (DTS) has been acquired by Swiss company Schwihag AG.

Dinnington based company Direct Track Solutions Ltd (DTS) has been acquired by Swiss company Schwihag AG. Corporate Finance advice was provided to DTS by Andy Ryder and Adam Ames of Shorts, together with legal advice from Matt Ainsworth of Shakespeare Martineau.

Andy Ryder, Corporate Finance Partner at Shorts said: “We are delighted to have helped complete this transaction for Martin and Melanie. It has been a pleasure to work with them on this international transaction, and we look forward to hearing of Direct Track’s continuing success under Schwihag’s ownership.“

Direct Track Solutions Ltd will continue to trade under the DTS Brand, with the company structure and personnel remaining unchanged.

The acquisition of DTS last month supplements Schwihag’s manufacturing facilities in Doncaster; Leipzig, Germany and Grandview Missouri, USA, alongside its additional regional offices in Valencia, Spain and New Delhi, India.  The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, is seen as a strategic addition to Schwihag’s UK portfolio, increasing the range of products and services offered to the market.

New team member a ‘wonderful addition’ for Oasis Studio

Olivia Dale Oasis Studio

Oasis Studio has expanded its team, welcoming Olivia Dale to the company.

Olivia is currently studying her Master’s Degree in Architecture at Sheffield Hallam University. She has joined the Oasis Studio EyeSiteView team for her internship and has already been contributing significantly to the firm’s live projects.

Olivia commented: “I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to intern at Oasis Studio. It’s been an incredible experience working on live projects for EyeSiteView alongside a talented team who have provided invaluable support and guidance. Throughout my time here, I’ve developed and honed skills that will not only enhance my professional journey but also contribute significantly to my Master’s studies.”

Jade Chinn, Marketing Lead at Oasis Studio said: “Olivia has been a wonderful addition to our studio. In just the short time she has been with us Olivia has already been making great contributions to our live projects for our house builder clients, it’s great to have her on our team.”

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£255,000 in grant funding awarded to community groups and local voluntary organisations

More than 60 community groups and local voluntary organisations in Chesterfield are benefiting from a share of £255,000 in grant funding – with further funding now available to even more eligible groups.

A total of 64 local groups from across the borough have been awarded funding through Chesterfield Borough Council’s Community Grants Fund – helping them to deliver grassroots projects that will improve life for local people.

Applications for the fifth and final round of funding from the scheme are now open – with a total of £60,000 available to groups who apply by the deadline on 25 October.

More information on eligibility criteria and how to apply can be found at: https://chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-ukspf/community-grants-fund/

The grants, which were launched last year, are already being used to support local groups deliver projects that support resilient, healthy, and safe neighbourhoods, as well as initiatives which will help to tackle food poverty and social isolation, or support people to get in to work.

It is also supporting projects that will reduce the borough’s impact on the climate and wider environment by promoting greener choices.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We’re lucky to have so many community groups and voluntary organisations here in Chesterfield that support our communities.

“I’m pleased that, through external funding schemes, we are able to support so many of these groups that work tirelessly to deliver projects and initiatives that make a real difference to the lives of local people, and we’re looking forward to watching these projects progress.”

The latest round of funding, tranche four, has seen the following groups awarded funding:

  • Community Development Chesterfield
  • Poolsbrook Club Community Committee
  • Duckmanton Miners Welfare Centre
  • The Volunteer Centre
  • Middlecroft Community Network
  • The Edge Ministries
  • Friends of Holmebrook Valley Park
  • United Response
  • Friends of Badger Park
  • GH Futures Ltd

One of the groups benefiting from funding is Middlecroft Community Network – a local group established by residents, for residents, with the aim of enhancing the local community and improving the health and well-being of local people.

The funding awarded has helped to support a community engagement event called Picnic on the Pitch – an opportunity for residents to connect with local authorities and outreach services.

Tom Oxley, Middlecroft Community Network’s Chair and Founder, said: “As lifelong residents, we’ve noticed that Middlecroft lacked meeting venues and facilities on the estate. The funding from the Community Grants Fund will play a huge part in helping us to change this and allows us more opportunities to improving the estate and enhancing the physical and mental health of its residents.

“Picnic on the Pitch 2024 took place on Saturday 14 September and was our inaugural event, which we hope to make an annual tradition. During the event, we provided free food and entertainment for residents, and encouraged them to interact and socialise with each other while also engaging with local services they may not have otherwise accessed.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Vicki Holmes, Secretary of the Network, who has worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this event. Her devotion, not only to this event but also to the well-being of the Middlecroft Estate and its residents, is truly admirable. She is always active, whether it’s on our community allotment, litter picking with her family, or organising competitions for the residents.”

Alongside the Community Grants Fund, the council is running a community development project which will provide support to organisations wanting to apply for the grant. If you would like any help or guidance with submitting a bid, please contact the team on:

Email: communitygrants@chesterfield.gov.uk

Phone: 01246 959657 or 07790 977317

Post: Community Grants Fund, c/o Wendy Blunt,
Health and Wellbeing Officer,
Chesterfield Borough Council,
Town Hall,
Chesterfield,
S40 1LP

Funding for the Community Grants Fund has been successfully secured from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), together with money raised through the Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Portion (CIL).

The community grants are just one initiative which is benefiting from funding through the UKSPF, after the council was successful in securing £2.6m from the Government. It will fund initiatives up to April 2025, which are designed to improve life for local people and support local businesses.

Child having face painted at local community event

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Chesterfield’s CMP Legal shortlisted for two prestigious awards

Chesterfield based CMP Legal has been shortlisted as a finalist for two prestigious accolades at the 2024 Yorkshire Legal Awards.

The company has been shortlisted for the Corporate & Commercial Award and Anna Cattee, Executive Director at CMP Legal has been shortlisted for the Partner of the Year Award.

The Yorkshire Legal Awards brings together the region’s legal community to recognise and celebrate its many achievements.

The award categories encompass a wide range of nominees, from large corporate firms, leading barristers, senior partners to rising stars. The awards are judged by a prestigious independent panel made up of experts from across the Yorkshire legal community.

The Shortlist for the Corporate & Commercial Award is:

• Brabners
• Clarion
• CMP Legal Limited
• DWF LAW LLP
• Ison Harrison
• Mills & Reeve
• Ramsdens Solicitors LLP
• Ward Hadaway LLP

The Shortlist for the Partner of the Year Award is:

• CMP Legal Limited‘s Anna Cattee
• Fenchurch Law‘s Daniel Robin
• Hawkswell Kilvington‘s Rachel Heald
• Irwin Mitchell LLP‘s Oliver Collett
• Leigh Day‘s Bethany Sanders
• Minton Morrill/Fletchers Solicitors‘ Sahida Patel
• rradar‘s Stephanie Thirlwell
• Schofield Sweeney‘s Leo Jones-Rowe

Anna Cattee, Executive Director at CMP Legal said: We are delighted to be shortlisted as finalists for both the Corporate & Commercial Award and Partner of the Year Award at the 2024 Yorkshire Legal Awards. It’s incredible to be recognised alongside such high-calibre, well-established and large national corporate law firms.

“For CMP Legal to be amongst such worthy competition showcases the quality of the deals we act on and the status of the clients we work with. To be finalists is a testament to the hard work and commitment from everyone in our team. As one of the founders I’m very proud of the recognition that our business has received since it was established in 2021.”

The winners will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony on 10th October 2024 at the First Direct Arena in Leeds. The awards will be hosted by British criminal barrister and television personality, Rob Rinder and will include a champagne reception, three-course meal and entertainment.

CMP Legal was established at the end of the pandemic in 2021. a leading niche commercial law firm that specialises in corporate, commercial, dispute resolution and employment law Over the past 3 years, the company has gone from strength to strength and continues to expand its team.

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

CMP Legal team photo

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Chesterfield community hospital opens doors

A new community hospital open in Chesterfield aims to help reduce NHS waiting times and increase patient choice in the area.

CHEC, one of the UK’s leading providers of NHS community-based healthcare, is ready to welcome patients for cataract surgery after officially opening the doors at its Rowland Hill House site in Chesterfield town centre.

The conveniently located facility will help reduce NHS waiting times and increase patient choice by providing access to ophthalmology services in the community.

With ample free parking and excellent transport links, the new clinical facility is equipped with a state-of-the-art ophthalmology theatre. Now accepting referrals, CHEC Chesterfield is supporting the NHS to reduce waiting times by treating patients for conditions including cataracts within four weeks.

“Patient choice, exceptional care and equity of access are central to CHEC’s operations and ethos, which is why we’re proud to collaborate with NHS partners nationwide, helping to keep waiting times to a minimum while delivering the very best quality of care,” explains Emily Greaves, Hospital Manager at CHEC Chesterfield.

“For well over a decade, we’ve been trusted by the NHS to deliver healthcare services free of charge for local people in the community. We’re excited to become part of the Chesterfield community and look forward to welcoming our first patients in the coming weeks.

“In the meantime, we’d welcome any residents to get in touch and learn more about how we work with the NHS to make much-needed treatments more readily accessible,” concludes Emily.

To learn more about accessing the services CHEC provides at its Chesterfield site, please contact engagement@chec.uk

Want to learn more about living in Chesterfield? Rated the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family, and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands, our town has so much to offer. Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

CHEC Eye hospital Chesterfield

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Accessibility and inclusion to be highlighted in Chesterfield

Local organisations are shining a light on accessibility and inclusion in Chesterfield, showcasing the support available for people with disabilities.

Local disability support and community groups, supported by the Chesterfield Equality and Diversity Forum, are to hold a free event during National Inclusion Week and Chesterfield residents are invited to come along.

Hosted alongside various disability organisations, the aim of the day is to spread awareness and show support around accessibility and inclusion in the Chesterfield area.

The inclusion day will take place Tuesday 24 September between 10am and 3pm at New Square, and Grace Chapel in Chesterfield town centre.

Partners including the NHS, RNIB, Accessible UK, Deaf-intely Women, Derbyshire All Age Carer Support Service, Scope, Peaky Blindies sight support group, Building Bridges support group, Scope, Grace Chapel, Feeling Connected DVA, Mindscapes support group, Chesterfield Shop Mobility and Pain Inspired (chronic pain support group) and many more will be on hand throughout the event to offer advice and support information.

A key aim of the initiative to is to create a better understanding of the experiences of people who have a disability, including the challenges that they may face in everyday life. To help highlight some of these issues, attendees will take part in an initiative called ‘a moment in our shoes’ – supported by local social enterprise, Kakou.

Those taking part in the event will use vision glasses supplied by RNIB and headphones supplied by Deaf-intely Women to enable them to ‘walk’ in the shoes of individuals with various disabilities, including visual and hearing impairment, limited mobility, wheelchair use, and hidden disabilities or learning disabilities, to truly understand the challenges they face.

They will be interviewed and filmed to capture their thoughts and reflections, and this will be used to create a short film after the event –  further spreading the message of inclusivity.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of the Council, said: “Having the opportunity to experience real life situations and understand the issues people are facing will help to inform our decision making and have a positive impact in our town.”

Karen Lawson, a social prescriber who works together with local GP practices to support people in managing their disabilities, has helped to organise the event.

She said: “I’m inspired by the people in our community who face daily challenges of accessibility and inclusion. Their voice is often not heard.

“They are asking decision-makers and the community to spend ‘a moment in our shoes’ so they know what it feels like.

“Through art, performance, hands-on experiences, talks and sharing the passion of our community we can use this event to help make our town a positive, shining, example of inclusion.”

National Inclusion Week is an annual week of activities and events that aim to highlight the importance of inclusion across the UK. It runs from 23rd to 29th September 2024.

 

 

 

 

new square Chesterfield

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New Chesterfield artist in residence set to inspire with exciting public art projects

From printmaking to photography, local people are being invited to get involved in a new art project which will help bring Chesterfield town centre to life during the ongoing regeneration work.

Local artist, Lucie Maycock, has been appointed as the ‘artist in residence’ the first project for the new public art programme, Animate Chesterfield. It aims to encourage people to visit the town, engage in creative activity and experience new artworks that will help leave a lasting legacy.

A series of workshops – aimed at both children and adults – will be running in the project’s base in New Square, from September to December 2024. There will be a range of activities on offer including printmaking, storytelling, photography and much more.

Lucie is a Chesterfield-based socially engaged multi-disciplined freelance artist who specialises in community arts. Her career spans over 15 years working in a number of disciplines and creative mediums.

Initially she specialised in youth arts, working in a creative arts centre delivering visual arts, media, theatre projects and more. Lucie says she is immensely passionate about all of her community projects and strives to make the world a better place using the arts as her tool.

Lucie added: “There are many ways you can get involved with the artists residency programme in Chesterfield from September to December 2024. Dream and imagine a future for your town through creative arts, crafts, photography, printmaking and much more.

“It’s a chance to discover and tell hidden stories about Chesterfield and all its rich heritage and help to co-create and feed into ideas for creative artwork that will animate the town.”

Animate Chesterfield is led by Chesterfield Borough Council and delivered by Beam, a leading cultural development organisation working across the North of England. It will run for the next two years and as well as the artist in residence the programme includes the creation of new trails and other artworks.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “I’m really pleased to welcome Lucie into this role, and I know she has planned some fantastic workshops that will spark creativity and create memories for our residents. I look forward to seeing what is created and I’d encourage you to take a look at the upcoming events and take part in this great project.”

Funding for the public art project was secured through planning agreements as part of the council’s percent for art scheme, which was part of the previous Local Plan (and now continues on a voluntary basis), and the funding must be used for the delivery of public art.

You can find out more about Animate Chesterfield and see all the upcoming events by visiting: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/animate

Artist puts paintbrush to canvas

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Vicar Lane welcomes new community hub for veterans

A new community hub for veterans is being set up at Vicar Lane  in Chesterfield town centre.

The new hub, managed by Stand To Derbyshire Veteran Community Services (STDVCS), will be opening on 1st October.

STDVCS is a group dedicated to supporting Derbyshire’s Ex-Forces community and their families. It was set up by local charity, Derbyshire Addictions Advice Service (DAAS) in 2015. The project differs from generic support services by providing a tailored longer-term programme to the Derbyshire Ex- Armed Forces community.

The hub will provide a space dedicated for veterans, where they can have a cuppa, chat and a friendly ear. One to one support and extensive resources will be offered, with the chance to talk to a dedicated ex armed forces worker or volunteer.

Support that can be provided ranges from pension enquiries, welfare support, housing, signposting or a referral into STDVCS’s specialised alcohol treatment service.  For further support, the charity can also put veterans in touch with veteran specific organisations.

Veterans face an array of challenges from deployment to resettlement; the risk of injury, being away from loved ones and upon returning from serving, adjustment back into civilian life. Although thousands of veterans need assistance with the issues they may face, many do not receive treatment. If someone is struggling then they should call in at the Veteran Community Hub, which will be in an accessible unit opposite Iceland.

Shaun Brown, Centre Manager, Vicar Lane said, “We’re thrilled that the Veteran Community Hub is opening at Vicar Lane. We hope that our local veterans will come and visit; whether for a chat or specific support”.

Elaine Handley, DAAS Service Manager said, “We’re really looking forward to opening the Hub at Vicar Lane which will be an excellent premise for providing support needed to local veterans. Stand To Derbyshire Veteran Community Services has your back! Together we are stronger.”

For further details please visit https://www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk/

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre and DAAS support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Veterans Hub Vicar Lane 873

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Chesterfield homeware business expands to new location

A Chesterfield business specialising in soft furnishings and homeware continues to expand, having started out just three and a half years ago.

Ellenvale Interiors Ltd. was founded in 2021 by Annie Johnson, who first ran the business from her spare room, and then a shed which she had built in her garden. The business sells its products online, having gained an impressive 27.8k followers on Instagram.

As Ellenvale Interiors continued to expand, Annie decided to move into a warehouse in Sheepbridge. However the business continued to grow over the next ten months, meaning Ellenvale took on the second premises, next door to their existing one, to meet demand.

Continuing the momentum, Ellenvale has now moved into another Sheepbridge premises five time larger. The company also boasts five full-time members of staff.

Annie commented: “My ambitions are now to make the company a household name, get the brand in some large retailers and also continue to provide a happy and thriving work environment for my staff.

“Me and my partner are taking our first trip to China in 2025 to develop more ranges and look into expanding into bedding and curtains. We are also going to start looking into making our cushion inserts in house which will provide further job opportunities.”

Speaking about growing her business in our town, Annie added: “We love working in Chesterfield, its affordable and everyone around us is super friendly making it the best place for our business to thrive.”

Ryan Wilkes, Destination Chesterfield Board Member congratulated the company on its latest expansion, saying: “It’s fantastic to see the entrepreneurial spirit being displayed by Ellenvale Interiors, culminating in this resounding success.

“The business is yet another example of a company which has been able to start-up, innovate and grow in our town – helping to grow our economy and create jobs. We wish Annie every success as she continues to grow.”

Want to join hundreds of thriving businesses in Chesterfield, benefitting from our town’s central location and links to cities, ports and airports? Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

If you’re already based in Chesterfield and are looking for support to innovate, grow or access new talent, head over to our business support page: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Couple with keys to new warehouse with warehouse in background

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East Midlands businesses address the challenges of Climate Change preparation at summit

The region’s businesses joined academics and industry specialists to tackle barriers in achieving Net Zero at the East Midlands Sustainability Summit on 12th September.

Workshops, seminars and presentations unpicked hurdles faced by firms in their journey toward become more sustainable at the event hosted by East Midlands Chamber, in partnership with the University of Derby, where the summit was held.

East Midlands Chamber President Stuart Dawkins opened the summit. He said afterwards: “To see so many businesses, of different types and sizes gathered at this summit was a welcome sight and really underlines just how seriously the East Midlands is taking its approach to sustainability. I get the feeling no one is under any pretence about the obstacles that can make mitigating against Climate Change daunting. How does a business prepare? Are they doing it the right way?

“Today’s summit shared best practice, saw research the Chamber has carried out with the University of Derby and workshops to help break down difficulties and find solutions. The East Midlands must, as I reiterated today, think hard about what it leaves for Generation Next-But-One – what we do now directly impacts the life they inherit. Businesses in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire really can be on the right side of history and get this right, but how we all get to that destination, when each business is structured differently, is a conversation that must never stop.”

East Midlands Chamber Director of Policy and Insight Richard Blackmore said: “Getting East Midlands businesses together to overcome the challenges around becoming more sustainable is an important step toward achieving Net Zero, but we should remember that the summit was also an excellent opportunity to focus on the economic growth potential for businesses that get the strategy right.

“Keeping the momentum of the sustainability journey front and centre of all business operation is essential, as putting it on the back burner to just worry about another day isn’t an option.

“We heard from some fantastic speakers today and I extend my thanks to all of them – to our summit sponsors Auditel, Geo Green Power and our partner for this summit, the University of Derby.”

Research carried out by the Chamber and the University of Derby into Green Growth Trends – achieving economic growth without negatively impacting the environment – was shared by the university’s Associate Professor of Strategy and Sustainability Dr Polina Baralova. Findings included three quarters of large businesses reporting that they pursue Green Growth, while half of small businesses did.

Following the presentation, Dr Polina Baralova said: “My advice to businesses would be to think a little bit about how to grow sustainably, which we refer to as Green Growth. So, if you have a number of products and services that you trade on the market and they are having green credentials – as in they allow the general public, your customers or suppliers to reduce their carbon footprint and support an environmentally friendly agenda.

“At the same time, you also need to start thinking about your decarbonization initiatives and reducing carbon so those two elements go hand to hand. You can’t really have one without another.”

Businesses in Chesterfield can receive support to reduce their carbon footprint. Find out more by visiting our business support page.

East Midlands Chamber and University of Derby supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Lecture theatre at university with summit being delivered

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Next phase of Chesterfield Canal restoration project begins

Works to reinstate historic routes, boost habitats and biodiversity, and enhance local economic activity have commenced at Chesterfield Canal.

Alongside Chesterfield Canal Trust, landscape architecture practice, Influence Landscape Planning & Design, has announced the commencement of works on the next section of the Chesterfield Canal restoration project.

The works, which are taking place on a 2.6km stretch of the canal, from Staveley Basin to the south of Renishaw, Derbyshire, will revitalise the historic canal for people to enjoy and for nature to thrive.

Funded in part by the Staveley Town Deal, these works will see the reconstruction of up to 850 metres of canal channel, the construction of two new bridges – including a bridleway bridge to carry the Trans Pennine Trail over the canal – a new lock, and the enhancement of footpaths and cycleways.

Following planning permission in 2021, on behalf of Chesterfield Canal Trust, Influence Landscape Planning & Design was appointed to produce a landscape masterplan for the project, which led to detailed landscape plans and a Landscape and Ecological Management Plan (LEMP). Working alongside Peak Ecology and Rodgers Leask Consulting Engineers, the team successfully discharged the planning conditions related to the works.

The design features of the landscape plan include attractive seating areas, viewing points, areas for families to play, information boards and clear wayfinding – as the scheme is integrated with the surrounding network of public rights of way.

The landscape proposal includes native tree and shrub planting, areas of wildflower meadow, and aquatic planting along the length of the canal, creating a picturesque backdrop and a robust habitat for wildlife.

Since restoration began in 1989, 12 miles of the Chesterfield Canal have been restored, alongside 37 locks, 11 bridges, and two marinas. The most recent sections completed include Staveley Basin in 2012 and Hartington Harbour in 2018.

This phase of construction works is being delivered by midlands-based O’Brien Contractors, who are leading the first phase of this 18-month project, which includes major groundworks to clear the canal route and the landscaping. Following this, the abutments for the new Trans Pennine Trail bridge will be constructed, and by October, the 38-meter-long structure will be installed.

CGI animation of new trans pennine trail bridge

CGI image of new Trans Pennine Trail bridge – provided by Beaver Bridges

Subsequent phases will see the reinstatement of the canal length, a new lock, another accommodation bridge at the bottom of Bellhouse Lane, a pumping system, and the creation of Bellhouse Basin. The towpath will be upgraded to a multi-user trail, extending across the Doe Lea Valley to Renishaw. This restoration project not only enhances outdoor spaces and creates new leisure infrastructure, but it is also expected to increase visitors to the Staveley area by 20%, boosting local economic activity.

George Rogers, Development Manager at Chesterfield Canal Trust, said: “This project represents a major advance in the restoration of the Chesterfield Canal, as we move out of Staveley and into the Doe Lea valley. Moving into a more rural environment, it was really important to us that we gave proper consideration to the landscaping and to ensure that the restoration has a positive impact upon its surroundings for both wildlife and the community.

“Working with Influence and Peak Ecology on these plans has been enlightening and rewarding, and we are excited to see the new landscape maturing over time and the local community being better able to access this wonderful corner of Derbyshire.”

Kathryn Dunk, Principal Landscape Architect at Influence Landscape Planning & Design, said: “It’s been such a pleasure to be involved in a project that marries engineering heritage with new public spaces for all to enjoy, and importantly, this scheme gave us the opportunity to reinstate and enhance native planting to create new habitats for wildlife.

“It’s fantastic to see these former canal routes coming back to life and the historic importance of this site is truly fascinating. The team and I look forward to seeing people spending leisure time on the newly restored pathways and on the water.”

Find out more about the regeneration projects currently taking place in Chesterfield: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

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

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