Visiting

Chesterfield remembers the fallen 100 years on

9th November 2018

Chesterfield residents have the opportunity to pause and remember those who have died in battle on the 100^th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

The annual service of remembrance on Remembrance Sunday, Sunday 11 November, will take place at 2.30pm at St Mary and All Saints’ Church, the ‘Crooked Spire’. Everyone is welcome to attend but residents are advised to be seated by 2pm as the church becomes very full.

The service will remember all those killed in the First World War and subsequent conflicts.

The service will be followed by a parade from the church, through Burlington Street, High Street, Glumangate onto Rose Hill allowing those taking part to see the poppy displays in the town centre.

Residents and visitors are welcome to watch the parade which will include Chesterfield’s Mayor, Mayoress and other local dignitaries.

Members of the public are also welcome to attend the wreath laying ceremony at the war memorial from approximately 3.30pm with the poppy cascade featuring 16,000 poppies donated by people from across the world as a backdrop.

To mark the sacrifice of those who lost their lives in the First World War, the Chesterfield branch of the Old Contemptibles will lay a wreath directly after the Lord-Lieutenant, who lays a wreath on behalf of the Queen.

Find more information on the service and parade here.

Councillor Steve Brunt, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The remembrance services are a culmination of months of activity to mark the 100^th anniversary of the end of the First World War.”

“Everyone is welcome to attend and mark the sacrifice made by people in the war and subsequent conflicts.”

People can also attend an eleventh hour service at the Crooked Spire church on Sunday 11 November at 11am – the time of the 100^th anniversary of the armistice.

Staveley Town Council will hold an event in Staveley at 11am on Sunday 11 November at the war memorial. More information here.

Brimington Parish Council will hold a parade and service in Brimington at 3pm.

Chesterfield Museum will also open on the day from 10am to 3pm to allow visitors to experience the sights and sounds of the First World War at ‘The Trench Experience’ exhibition. There will also be a talk on the Sherwood Foresters from Chesterfield who lost their lives in the First World War.

To see more information on events in the borough to mark the anniversary, click here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Visiting

Chesterfield Champion launches Toy Appeal to brighten children’s ward this Christmas

8th November 2018

As we enter the Christmas holiday season, Chesterfield Champion Jones & Co Independent Financial Advice is asking local businesses and residents to ‘spare a toy and share some joy’ and support them in their Christmas Toy Appeal. All gifts received will be donated to the Nightingale Ward of the Chesterfield Royal Hospital.

The Nightingale Ward is a dedicated paediatric ward which offers acute medical care to all children and young people aged from 1 day old, up to their 17th birthday.

Every year, many children spend their Christmas on the Nightingale Ward. At such a special time of year, Jones & Co Independent Financial Advice would like to bring some additional Christmas cheer to these children and their families.

Adviser Donna Robertson said: “Helping our local children is a cause very close to our hearts and we thought this is the perfect opportunity to give back!”

Donations can be dropped off at the Jones & Co office, 27 Glumangate, Chesterfield S40 1TX. Gifts can be donated up to the 14th of December, allowing plenty of time for Santa to deliver the gifts to the children on the ward. Please note, all gifts must be new and unwrapped.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Christmas, Visiting

Groups invited to apply now for Action Grants

7th November 2018

Community groups, clubs and charities are being invited to apply now for the next round of Derbyshire County Council’s Action Grants.

Action Grants totalling more than £210,000 have been awarded to 112 groups across Derbyshire in the first round of our scheme which we launched in May 2018. A full list of those who have benefitted can be found here.

Applications from the second round, which closed in September 2018, are currently being considered and the third round is open now inviting applications up to 31 December 2018.

From the £1.5 million fund there are 2,000 small grants of up to £500, a number of grants worth up to £5,000, and for schemes which can be shown to offer long-term benefits for local people and promote two or more of the Action Grant themes, potential grants of £10,000.

Successful applicants so far were able to show they promoted one or more of the four Action Grant themes or a combination;

Youth activity – Including setting up youth clubs, organising activities for young people, projects to help young people gain new skills or schemes to help them deal with mental health issues.

Community activity – Such as setting up new community groups, organising a local event or starting a community project.

Physical activity and sport – Money for schemes to encourage residents of all ages to take part in physical activities, keep fit and stay healthy – or which encourage people to get active if they’re not already.

Community safety – Grants for projects to reduce crime and the fear of crime including raising awareness about scams and rogue trading, schemes to tackle anti-social behaviour and initiatives to help residents keep themselves safe.

Successful applicants in the first round of Action Grants included:

Friendship and social clubs
Brownie, Scout, Guide and Cadet groups
Sports clubs
Fitness classes
Youth activities and support for young people
Baby and toddler groups
Specialist support schemes
New community initiatives
Music and arts groups
Gardening and environmental projects

Derbyshire County Council Leader Councillor Barry Lewis said: “If you’re involved with a community group, club or charity in Derbyshire and would benefit from a cash boost our next round of Action Grant applications is now open and I’d urge you to apply.”

“There are many groups which do amazing work to provide opportunities for residents in their communities and we’re keen to support them. An Action Grant could be just the helping hand they need to do even more to provide lasting benefits for residents across the county.”

“As the list of groups which successfully applied for one of our grants in the first round shows, we’re happy to consider any activity for Action Grant funding which can show a benefit for residents and their local community – anything from family fit sessions and school holiday clubs to schemes which tackle domestic abuse and support mental health.”

“We’ve made the process as simple as possible with a short form to fill in and a quick decision process. Dozens of groups are already benefiting from their Action Grants and we’re encouraging others to get their applications in before the next deadline.”

The deadline for the current round of Action Grant applications is 31 December 2018. Groups which apply should hear if they have been successful within 4 weeks of the deadline. More rounds will follow next year until the scheme ends in May 2020.

Click here to apply or for further information on applications.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Leisure, Visiting

Enter a land of make-believe at Chatsworth this Christmas

7th November 2018

All who enter Chatsworth this Christmas will find themselves transported into a world of make-believe as it presents ‘Once Upon a Time’; a selection of favourite stories to enchant young and old alike.

Scenes from classic tales are woven throughout the Chatsworth House to create a storybook world guaranteed to set imaginations running wild this Christmas season, running from November 10 to January 6.

Arthur the dragon guards the overgrown North Entrance and those who creep past him to the grand rooms beyond will find themselves surrounded by scenes from family favourites.

From Snow White in the Sculpture Gallery and Cinderella in the Chapel to more recent classics like James and the Giant Peach and Charlotte’s Web, the house has never before been host to such an array of popular characters.

Storytellers with the air of the Pied Piper will roam the rooms and corridors to enchant visitors with mystical tales as they explore the magical land of make-believe. For younger visitors, a free family trail will be available at the entrance with a friendly baby dragon to spot en route.

It wouldn’t be Christmas at Chatsworth without a huge helping of dressed Christmas trees along the route, and don’t miss the mirrors on the wall for the perfect photo opportunity. There will costumes to try on for those who want to get into character too. As an enchanting end to the route, snowball decorations swirl around The Snowman in the Vestibule and snowflake lights glitter in the pale glow of the Sculpture Gallery.

Once again, the creative team at Chatsworth has produced a Christmas experience that draws on the talents of the staff from across the estate to make costumes, props and sets as well as painting, decorating, printing and staging with lighting, sounds and scents.

The Christmas route winds its way through the ground, lower floors and guest apartments on the upper floor. A timed ticketing system will be in operation, with visitors encouraged to book online in advance to secure their preferred time slot and take advantage of free parking.

The popular Chatsworth Christmas market will be running from 16 November to 4 December. With over 100 market stalls offering a wide range of Christmas gifts and decorations, it’s a great way to start the festive season.

Entrance to ‘Once Upon a Time’ is included with Christmas admission. Christmas tickets include the house, garden and farmyard are priced at £25 per adult; £15 per child and £69 per family (2 adults, 3 children).

Also at Chatsworth this Christmas, take part in the Traditional Christmas Decorations Workshop on the 9th or 13th December, where using natural materials from the Chatsworth Estate, you will make some special decorations to take home for Christmas or give as a gift.

You can also join the Christmas Willow Workshop on the 12th December where you weave your own willow angels, stars and wreaths to decorate your home or garden this Christmas, led by basket maker Maggie Cooper on the 12th December.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Christmas, Leisure, Visiting

New pub to open in Chesterfield

5th November 2018

The newest addition to Chesterfield’s food and drink scene will open in November.

Formerly known as The White Swan, The Pig and Pump will be a traditional pub serving a large range of real ales, traditional ciders, a craft offering and home cooked locally sourced food. The venue also plans to showcase live bands from around the country every Saturday night.

Multi site owners Tom O’Neill and Kate Simpson secured the venue in October and are currently in the process of a full refurbishment. Once open the venue will create 20 new jobs.

General Managers Ash & Danielle Sheppard said “We are excited to push the venue to the next level and bring our experience and passion for real ale, quality food & live music to make the Pig & Pump a huge success!”

The grand opening takes place on the weekend of the 23rd and 24th November with live music from the Jake Henry Trio on the Friday and Andy Bennett, formally of Ocean Colour Scene on the Saturday.

This news follows the annual Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards being announced last week. The awards which were in their 6th year celebrate the flourishing food an drink scene in the town. Check out this years winners at www.chesterfield.co.uk/foodanddrinkawards.

Posted in Business, Development, Leisure, Visiting

Top restaurant revealed at Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards

1st November 2018

Less than two years after opening, Bottle and Thyme has been named as Chesterfield’s Restaurant of the Year, taking the top honour in the town’s 2018 Food and Drink Awards organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with Chesterfield College.

Based on Knifesmithgate in Chesterfield town centre, Bottle and Thyme was one of 13 bars, restaurants, food producers, cafés and individuals to scoop an accolade across 15 categories.

Now in its sixth year, the awards ceremony recognises the very best in the town’s growing food and drink sector. Once again held at Chesterfield College’s Heart Space building, the awards ceremony was hosted by celebrity chef, Lesley Waters, who explained: “I was delighted to host the 2018 Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards.

“There is a real passion amongst food and drink businesses in the area for using locally sourced produce. As well as supporting local business, it’s about using fresh ingredients and creating great food. I firmly believe the best food is made with passion and there is plenty of that in Chesterfield.”

Since opening in December 2016, Bottle and Thyme has made a big impression on the town’s food and drink scene. Last year, it took home the titles of Best Newcomer and Best Customer Service, in the 2017 Food and Drink Awards.

Hannah Grainger, Owner of Bottle and Thyme said: “It feels incredible to win Chesterfield’s Restaurant of the Year. We were so happy to win the two awards last year and, this year, we are ecstatic to win this – it means so much. We try to use as many local suppliers as we can and always try and make our menu seasonal to change it up; keeping things exciting.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “Once again the awards have been a tremendous success and reflection of a thriving sector in Chesterfield. The awards – in terms of nominations, businesses and guests, increase year on year, and 2018 was no exception. They epitomise everything that is great about the Chesterfield hospitality scene – great food, drink and partnerships between both the business community and education sector.”

This year, the awards saw the introduction of two new categories – Apprentice of the Year and Apprentice Employer of the Year, recognising the contribution that apprenticeships make to the hospitality industry.

Corey Elliott, an apprentice chef at The Lilypad Café & Restaurant was named as the Apprentice of the Year, while Stephenson’s Tea and Coffee House was named as the Apprentice Employer of the Year. Stephenson’s’ owners, Claire and Sam Wood had cause for double celebration on the night after being named as the Café/Tea Room of the Year.

Chatsworth Road-based Junction Bar was also a double winner on the night scooping the awards for Pub/Bar of the Year and Best Customer Service.

More than 250 people attended what has become the biggest night of the year for Chesterfield’s food and drink community. Held in association with The Chesterfield College Group, the awards are also a hands-on learning experience for the College’s hospitality students, who prepared and served a two-course menu at the event.

Julie Richards, Principal and Chief Executive of The Chesterfield College Group said: “I am delighted that the role of apprenticeships in the industry was celebrated for the first time this year, alongside the achievements of the Young Chef of the Year finalists.

“We are training the next generation of catering and hospitality experts both in our classrooms and working with employers through apprenticeships, so it is fantastic to be able to inspire them by helping to showcase successful businesses in the sector.

“I am very proud of our catering and hospitality staff and students who have worked hard to prepare and serve an amazing meal for guests, which highlights the quality of their work and their professional approach.”

Lesley Waters added: “Having worked in education myself as a former Head Tutor of Leith’s School of Food & Wine and now owning my own cookery school, it is very exciting to see Chesterfield College and its budding chefs of the future so actively involved with the town’s foremost food and drink event.”

To see all of the winners of the 2018 Chesterfield Food and Drink awards, visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/foodanddrinkawards/.

Supporters of the Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards include Apprentice Town, Banner Jones Solicitors, BHP Chartered Accountants, Casa Hotel, Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire Building Control Partnership, Derbyshire Times, Elder Way (Jomast Developments), East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire), FEAST (The Food and Drink Forum) Hoods Florist, Jumble Creative Design, Juxta-Post Media, Kier Group, Learning Unlimited (The Chesterfield College Group), MSE Hiller, Owen Taylor & Sons, Peak FM, Reflections, Shorts Chartered Accountants, Reflections, Steve Faulkner and Winster Foods.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Bonfire returns to Stand Road Fireworks Display

1st November 2018

Residents and visitors are set to enjoy a sparkling night of entertainment when Chesterfield Borough Council’s Bonfire and Firework Display takes place on Sunday 4 November.

The popular annual event will take place at Stand Road Park and this year will include a bonfire which will be lit by members of Chesterfield’s Ex-Servicemen’s Association as part of a programme of events to mark the 100^th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

The main attraction of the night will be the traditional fireworks display set to music, which will include a rendition of I Vow To Thee My Country by the Central Band of the Royal British Legion, alongside the normal current and past chart songs.

Doors to the event open at 4pm for visitors to enjoy the fun fair rides and a wide range of food stalls, including a pie and pea stall run by the Market Café which will offer pies, cakes, crisps, coffee, tea and soft drinks.

The event will also see:

The Peak FM stage show, featuring breakfast show presenters Ricky and Becky, from 5.30pm
The bonfire being lit by members of the Ex-Servicemen’s Association at 6pm
Live stage performances between 6pm and 7pm by Ben Haenow, who won the X-Factor in 2014; Four of Diamonds, who were X-Factor finalists in in 2016; and singer Amir
The fireworks display set to music from 7pm

Councillor Steve Brunt, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The fireworks display is always one of the most popular events that we put on but this year we hope it will be even more special.

“We are organising a lot of events in Chesterfield over the next month to commemorate the 100^th anniversary of the end of the First World War so thought it would be a good idea to also have a memorial bonfire at this event.

“After the event the ashes from the bonfire will be collected in a memorial container and will then go on display in the Mayor’s Parlour at Chesterfield Town Hall.

“So I would encourage everyone to come down to Stand Road Park on Sunday 4 November to enjoy a great night’s entertainment.”

Entry costs £2 per person, with under 5s free. Exact money is needed as no change can be given. Residents are encouraged to arrive at the event as early as possible to avoid congestion at the entrance gates.

The Bonfire and Fireworks Display is one of a series of community events organised by Chesterfield Borough Council as part of its commitment to help make Chesterfield a thriving borough and to improve the quality of life for local people.

Find out more about the Chesterfield Fireworks Extravaganza

More Bonfire Night ideas in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Visiting

Patient donates lifetime of artwork to raise funds for Ashgate Hospicecare

31st October 2018

Ashoka Sen, from Holymoorside, who is a Day Hospice patient at Ashgate Hospicecare in Old Brampton, Chesterfield, has decided to donate her lifetime of artwork to raise funds for the Hospice. These intricate and vibrant paintings, prints and merchandise will initially be sold in the Hospice shop and at the Hospice’s Christmas Market on Saturday 17^th November 2018.

Ashoka has a life-limiting illness which means that her health is declining day to day. Her right arm does not work as well as it used to, and so she cannot paint large paintings as she once did. However, she still enjoys doing smaller drawings when she comes into the Day Hospice each week.

Ashoka said, “It means a lot to me that the legacy of my artwork will live on. I’m not very well now and I was very concerned that my paintings would just sit in my house and not go anywhere as my son doesn’t have the space for all of them. It’s wonderful to know that other people will be able to enjoy my work for years to come and that the Hospice will be able to raise lots of money and help more patients.”

Ashoka is a self-taught artist who was born in India, but she has lived on the edge of the Peak District for over 40 years. Many of her paintings are inspired by nature and the beauty of her surroundings in Derbyshire.

Sanjoy Sen, Ashoka’s son, said, “We’re very pleased to be able to donate the artwork to raise funds for the Hospice. We’re going to be staying in touch with the staff at the Hospice to ensure that more merchandise such as prints, cards, gift wrap, mugs and bags can be made from my mother’s works. I’m looking forward seeing how much we can help to raise and to keep it going year on year.”

Ami Brunyee, Activities Coordinator at the Day Hospice, said, “It’s clear that Ashoka is a very skilled, passionate and creative artist who produces absolutely spectacular things and it’s great that we’ll be able to sell her paintings at the Hospice on her behalf. I’ve already bought an original – a beautiful painting of a tiger leaning over a tree branch that reminds me of my daughter when she was a baby. It’s so nice having a painting with a story; one that was created by a patient. I also think people will appreciate the text that accompanies each picture about Ashoka’s inspiration for it. It’s definitely going to fly off the shelves!”

To buy Ashoka’s artwork and merchandise, you can come to Ashgate Hospicecare, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. Alternatively, you can come along to Ashgate Hospicecare’s Christmas Market on Saturday 17th November – click here for more information. To see more about Ashoka and her artwork, you can visit her website at www.ashokasen.co.uk.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Christmas, Visiting

Chesterfield prepares for First World War centenary

30th October 2018

Chesterfield will mark the sacrifice of servicemen and women in a series of events to commemorate the 100^th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

All the events have been organised by Chesterfield Borough Council in conjunction with the Royal British Legion and Chesterfield Combined Ex Services Association.

A cascade of poppies will be fixed to the balcony of Chesterfield Town Hall, Rose Hill, on the weekend of Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 November.

An appeal for knitted and crocheted poppies earlier this year saw more than three times the target of 15,000 provided by Chesterfield residents and people from all over the world to be used in making the cascade.

Councillor Steve Brunt, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the number of knitted and crocheted poppies we have received for our poppy cascade – thanks to everyone who has provided them.

“This will be in place until after the remembrance service on 11 November and will provide a fitting backdrop for the commemorations.

“The remaining poppies are cascaded from the balcony of Chesterfield Market Hall and displayed in shops in the town centre so will provide a colourful trail through the whole town that we hope will attract a lot of visitors.”

Visitors to Chesterfield Museum can also see what life was like for a soldier on the Western Front in the exhibition The Trench Experience.

The exhibition in the museum’s art gallery is open until 12 January. The museum is open each Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Admission is free.

Chesterfield’s mayor, Councillor Stuart Brittain will also lay a wreath at every war memorial across the borough beginning in Staveley on Thursday 1 November.

The mayor will also plant a tree in Shentall Gardens to mark the anniversary on Tuesday 6 November at 2pm. Residents are invited to attend the tree planting and a short service of remembrance.

The civic remembrance service will take place as usual at St Mary and All Saints’ Church, the Crooked Spire, on Sunday 11 November at 2.30pm followed by the wreath laying at the war memorial, Rose Hill.

Find out more about remembrance events in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Visiting

Derbyshire showcased to Chinese delegates

26th October 2018

Derbyshire’s tourism links with China have been strengthened further with a formal agreement signed by Derbyshire County Council Leader Barry Lewis and delegates from Anhui Province.

The agreement to work together to boost tourism, improve visitor experience and further develop links between the two areas was signed during a tourism conference held at the Casa Hotel in Chesterfield.

It follows a visit to China in November 2017 when our officials met Li Guoying, Governor of East China’s Anhui province to agree to work more closely on shared interests.

Environmental, economic, education and healthcare were also discussed during the visit which included a tour to our Markham Vale flagship regeneration site and state-of-the-art Meadow View Community Care Centre in Darley Dale.

From sampling a famous Bakewell Pudding to exploring Haddon Hall and Chatsworth House – visitors got a taste of what Derbyshire has to offer. The Chinese delegation included representatives from the country’s tourist and business industries.

Councillor Lewis said:”This was a fantastic opportunity to meet with Chinese delegates to further strengthen links between the two areas and showcase what Derbyshire has to offer and learn about Anhui Province.”

“It has been great to share the delights of the Peak District and Derbyshire with the delegation as tourism is an important part of our local economy. The population of the province is about 60 million people, a growing number of whom love to travel so we hope to welcome many more visitors in the future.”

The visit was hosted by Anhui Province with support from Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire and Derbyshire County Council. It was a chance for the delegation to promote the beautiful places to visit in China outside the usual tourist hotspots.

Tourism’s value to the Peak District and Derbyshire economy exceeded all expectations in 2017 – rising by 6% to £2.15 billion.

Annual visitor numbers rose to 40.45 million, an increase of more than 1.3%, while the number of full-time equivalent jobs supported by the visitor economy is up by almost 2.5% at 28,630.

Derbyshire County Council Leader Councillor Barry Lewis (right) helps show Mr Yang Guangrong, Vice-Governor, Anhui Provincial Government and visitors around Chatsworth House in Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Visiting

2019 Membership packages announced for Derbyshire County Cricket Club

24th October 2018

Derbyshire County Cricket Club has announced its Membership prices and categories for the 2019 season.

Club Membership, which offers entry to all regular season home cricket in 2019, will include a host of new benefits, giving Members more from their Membership. As well as over 40 days of cricket, Members will receive some great benefits including four free guest passes, free entry at selected four-day matches at Leicestershire, free visits to Uttoxeter Racecourse and the exclusive use of the Pattonair Lounge.

Members can again save £20 by purchasing before our 1st February Early Bird deadline, with Club Membership only £159. The price for Junior Membership and the popular Six Pack Ticket, meanwhile, have been frozen. Also, those who recruit a new Member through the Ambassador Initiative can still claim £50 cash back by introducing someone new to the Club.

Chief Executive, Simon Storey said: “We continually review our Membership packages and we’re pleased to be able to offer our Members more in 2019.”

“We’ve worked hard to create a Membership that, as well as entry to every home regular season Derbyshire match, offers some great new benefits – many of which were hand-picked by our Members.”

“We have also listened to feedback from our Members and will be offering the Pattonair Lounge as an exclusive facility for them and will monitor the impact on sales and service.”

“Membership is the best price way to watch Derbyshire – working out as less than £4 per day – and is still one of the best value Memberships in county cricket.”

“The support from our Members play a vital part not only on matchdays, but also helping the Club continue our investment on the field.”

“It’s an exciting time as we welcome Dave Houghton back as our new Head of Cricket. He impressed us with his vision for the future as we build a squad capable of competing for silverware.”

“Membership at Derbyshire represents great value and we hope our new-look packages will encourage Members old and new to be part of the Club in 2019.”

Membership can be purchased online at derbyshireccc.com, by calling 01332 388 101 or in person at The 3aaa County Ground.

Membership Prices	Early Bird	Full Price
2019 season	Until 31st Jan	From 1st Feb
Club Membership	£159	£179
Junior Membership	£20	£20
Age 16-21/Student	£55	£55
Pattonair Executive Club	£495	£525
Pattonair Executive Club & Partner	£725	£749
Six Pack Ticket	£76	£76
Car Park Pass	£65	£65

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Visiting