Visiting

Record-breaking year for the Chesterfield Postcard Show

31st May 2024

Local arts charity, Junction Arts is celebrating this month after staging their most successful Chesterfield Postcard to date.

The fundraising art exhibition, which invites mini-sized art submissions from amateur and established artists is now in its third year and has raised over £3,000, since 2022 to fund community arts projects in the region.

This year, organisers saw record entries, with 472 submissions. 92 individuals entered postcard-size artworks and 47 of them were from professional artists. Over 200 people visited the art exhibition over 10 days and £1,088 was raised through postcard sales and donations.

The Chesterfield Postcard Show is organised by Junction Arts and local artist Dave Elsom from Sombrero Printmaking to allow creatives, communities, and up-and-coming artists to show their work in a professional exhibition.

Hannah Bowdler, Relationship Fundraiser at Junction Arts said: “The Chesterfield Postcard Show has grown year on year, in 2022 we had just over 100 entries and only two years later we had almost 500! Visitors to the exhibition commented that the quality and range of the artwork were high this year, which is so great to hear.

“The event showcases artists of all levels and provides a place where people can buy original art, for just £10 and know that they’re helping to fund community art projects that make a real difference to people’s lives.

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who submitted work, visited the show or bought a postcard, we really do appreciate it. Also, a special thank you to Sue Woollett from Stepnell Construction East Midlands, who volunteered to help us set up the show – which is no mean feat when you have 472 pieces of artwork to hang!

“The event has proved popular and so we want it to continue to grow and we are looking for a sponsor for 2025 to help us take the show to the next level.”

For those that didn’t make it to the exhibition, don’t worry, the postcard-size artworks are still available to buy, via the Junction Arts Etsy page.

Find out more about events and activities taking place across Chesterfield this summer: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

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

Champions show support for Chesterfield community with latest initiatives

30th May 2024

Businesses across Chesterfield continue to get involved in supporting the local community with a range of initiatives to support people across the area.

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “Chesterfield Champions are proud to support our vibrant community, and it is great to see businesses playing their part to help others through a wide range of initiatives.

“Our town is a great place to work and live, and one of the main things that makes Chesterfield unique is the closeness of its community.

“It is great to see Champions continuing this trend by supporting local people and charities, alongside raising the profile of our area.”

Find out more about how our organisations are working to improve the lives of our residents and strengthen ties with our charities, voluntary organisations and wider community in our latest roundup below.

Spire Radio relaunches ‘Chesterfield Chat’ show to celebrate the town

Spire Radio has announced the relaunch of its community centred local show, Chesterfield Chat. The program returns now hosted by Jordan Hartshorne and produced by Eva Charkiewicz who are both passionate about celebrating the heart and soul of Chesterfield.

Chesterfield Chat provides a platform for local businesses, community groups, charities, and artists to connect with listeners and share their stories.

The relaunched show promises to build on this tradition while offering a fresh perspective and engaging format. Listeners can also expect lively discussions on local news and upcoming events that matter most to the people of Chesterfield.

Each week, Chesterfield Chat will feature a dynamic mix of guests, including:

Local business owners discussing their latest ventures and experiences of trading in Chesterfield.
Representatives from community groups and charities sharing their important work and fundraising efforts.
Local artists, musicians, and performers showcasing their talents, with some liver performances.
A roundup of the mustn’t-miss events around Chesterfield in the week ahead.

Spire Radio welcomes all members of the community to tune in to Chesterfield Chat every Tuesday evening at 6pm. Listen live on spire-radio.com, on the TuneIn Apps for iPhone, Android and Smart TV or Ask Alexa to Play Spire Radio from TuneIn.

Whether you’re a local business owner, a charity worker, or simply a resident who loves your town, Chesterfield Chat is a platform for your voice to be heard. For more information about Chesterfield Chat or if you’d like to feature on the show, email eva@spire-radio.com or message the station on Instagram.

DBCP to sponsor popular Chesterfield Children’s Festival

DBCP is sponsoring this year’s Chesterfield Children’s Festival –a free family event organised by local charity Junction Arts.

The Junction Arts event is funded by Arts Council England and was launched in 2023, attracting over 8,000 visitors. The two-day festival celebrates the joy of childhood, imagination and play and features free cultural activities and entertainment for children of all ages to enjoy.

This year, the event will be held on Saturday 27^th and Sunday 28^{th of} July in Queen’s Park, Chesterfield. New acts for 2024 include an immersive live movie set experience, an interactive family catwalk show, virtual reality swings, an aerial workshop for babies and family life drawing! There’ll also be art workshops, circus skills, storytelling, live music, face painting, theatre, and dance.

Chesterfield-based DBCP, which is the recommended provider of building control services in Derbyshire, Is the headline sponsor at the event, donating £4,000 to the charity. The extra funds will go towards an arts commission that will see musicians and storytellers work with local young people to create a new piece of music that will be performed at the festival.

Junction Arts Coordinator Jemma Burton said: “We’d like to say a massive thank you to DBCP and welcome them as sponsors of this year’s Children’s Festival. Junction Arts is a charity, we rely on corporate donations and sponsorship to ensure that our events and festivals are free and accessible to as many people as possible, this generous support from DBCP helps us to widen our reach and allows the festival to have much more impact in the community.”

Looking forward to the event David Pratt, DBCP’s Building Control Manager, said: “We are delighted to sponsor Chesterfield Children’s Festival this year. Many of the DBCP team and their families live in and around the area, so for us to be involved with this fantastic event in our community gives us all a real feeling of pride.”

For more information about the Chesterfield Children’s Festival visit: junctionarts.org.

Popular TV and comedy star launches new series of Ashgate Hospice grief podcast

ED BYRNE image stood against a wall smiling

Image by Roslyn Gaunt

Television and comedy star Ed Byrne recently appeared in the newest series of Ashgate Hospice’s podcast, which explores frank and honest conversations about life, death and grief.

Ed, known for appearing on panel shows like 8 Out of 10 Cats and his stand-up comedy, was interviewed for the first episode of The Life and Death Podcast.

It comes amidst the world tour of his show Tragedy Plus Time, inspired by the bereavement he faced following the death of his younger brother.

Ed sat down with podcast host Stephen Rumford ahead of his show in Buxton to discuss his career, his brother’s life and the success of the critically acclaimed show.

The first episode of the fifth series, featuring Ed, launched on 6^th May as part of Dying Matters Awareness Week.

Episodes featuring other death and grief experts and commentators will go live every fortnight.

Stephen Rumford, host of The Life and Death Podcast and Senior Physiotherapist at Ashgate Hospice, said: “I don’t think we could have imagined that when we started back in 2020, we’d go on to launch five series of the podcast.

“This time, we’ve expanded our range topics and guests, and our six latest guests are a wonderful addition to the growing resource that the podcast represents.

“From a candid conversation with Ed Byrne to an insightful discussion with TikTok’s ‘Hospice Nurse Julie’, we have a wide range of guests offering differing expertise. You’re sure to learn something new with each episode.

“We hope the podcast provides a useful resource to anyone who is bereaved and people who might be curious about the subject.

“I hope all of our listeners enjoy the considered opinions of our guests as they share their unique experiences with us.”

In the podcast seasons so far, Stephen speaks with writers, doctors and people who have experienced end of life care to discuss their unique relationships, hospice life, and how death affects the living.

In the latest series, Dr. Katie Lawlor, an animal bereavement expert and pet loss psychologist based in San Francisco, California, joins as one of the guests.

She was training to be a clinical psychologist before she realised there was very little, if any, support networks for people suffering following the death of a pet.

Others include Dr Julie McFadden, known to millions on social media as ‘Hospice Nurse Julie’; she cares for palliative and end of life patients and uses TikTok to address some of death’s biggest misconceptions.

The Natural Death Centre’s Josefine Speyer, author of Modern Loss, Rebeca Soffer, and renowned philosopher Simon Critchley will also feature in the new season.

Episodes will be released on Mondays every fortnight from 6^th May! You can listen to episodes from all five series of The Life and Death Podcast online or by searching for ‘Ashgate Hospice’ on all streaming platforms.

Veezu supports Cash for Kids charity

Veezu, a private hire operator covering Chesterfield and South Yorkshire, has donated £500 to the local arm of Cash for Kids in support of Cash for Kids Day on 2 May.

The donation was made through Funded by Veezu, an initiative in which local charities and sports teams can apply for funding and grants, set up to improve the communities in which Veezu operates.

Cash for Kids supports children and young people affected by poverty, abuse, neglect, life-limiting illness, and those with additional needs. Based across 22 areas in the UK, Cash for Kids is a grant giving charity that helps community groups, charitable organisations, schools and individual cases. The latest figures from the End Child Poverty Coalition show that 1 in 3 local children are living in poverty and, in some areas, it is as high as 36%.

2 May marked Cash for Kids Day, where organisations came together to raise as much as possible for the cause, with a particular focus on combating holiday hunger to make sure all children have access to a hot meal during the holidays.

Veezu has donated £500 from its regional areas of Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds, Liverpool, Sheffield and Portsmouth, bringing the total donation to £3000. According to statistics given by Cash for Kids, it’s predicted that £3000 will help 60 children in need.

Lisa Sullivan, Charity Manager at Cash for Kids North, West and South Yorkshire and Derbyshire, said: “We are so grateful to Veezu for supporting us across the UK in six regions for Cash for Kids Day. For the passengers of Veezu, they can feel confident in their choice, as they will be helping disadvantaged children access activities and food during the school holidays. For many children it will be their only daily meal. The generosity of companies like Veezu, as well as donations from the general public, help us help children that need it the most.”

Sacha Skinner, Regional Marketing Manager at Veezu, said: “We are delighted to be able to support Cash for Kids once again. All children deserve access to a hot meal, whether it’s the holidays or not, and we are glad to donate what we can and make a difference to children living in poverty.”

BusinessWise Accountancy & Tax welcomes Brookfield School pupil for work experience

A Chesterfield business has continued its commitment towards supporting our young people with careers, by hosting a pupil for a week of work experience.

BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax welcomed Oliver to their organisation for a week of hands-on learning about what a career in Chesterfield’s financial sector would look like.

Looking for skills support in Chesterfield for your business? Go to our Skills and Training page to find out more.

The businesses featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Ashgate hospice, BusinessWise accountancy and tax, Chesterfield Buisness News, Chesterfield community news, chesterfield news, DBCP, Junction arts, Love Chesterfield, Spire Radio, Veezu

Peak Sightseer open-top bus tours expand to cover two routes

29th May 2024

The Peak Sightseer open-top tour bus tours are now up and running for 2024, with operator Stagecoach announcing an expanded service.

Peak Sightseer was launched last year, and is back again with a more extensive service this Summer, giving visitors the chance to explore some of Derbyshire’s best-loved attractions.

There are two routes, both based on Chatsworth House. The blue route serves Baslow, Calver, Grindleford, the National Trust Longshaw Estate, Surprise View, Hathersage, Bamford, Hope, Castleton and the spectacular Winnat’s Pass to Blue John Cavern.

The red route links Pilsley, Hassop Station (for the Monsal Trail), Bakewell and the village of Ashford-in-the-Water.

There are linking trips from Chesterfield Rail Station at the start and end of day, ensuring visitors and residents in our town can access the Peak Sightseer buses easily.

Partially funded by DfT BSIP funding, the tours have been made possible thanks to partnership working between Chatsworth Estate, Derbyshire County Council and Visit Peak District and Derbyshire as well as many others.

John Young, Commercial Director for Stagecoach in Chesterfield said: “We are delighted to have expanded the Peak Sightseer service to cover two routes.

“It has been fantastic to see the popularity of the new services since launching, which showcases the best of Derbyshire’s local attractions and beauty spots.

“Having the connectivity of Chesterfield Rail Station in such close proximity to the Peak District National Park makes the whole area much more accessible as a destination for visitors, and we can’t wait to welcome more people to North Derbyshire over the coming months.”

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “We strongly welcome this initiative from Stagecoach, providing an innovative and sustainable way for people to enjoy Chesterfield and the surrounding area.

“Our town is a great base for exploring the Peak District, and the Peak Sightseer service adds another valuable link for those wishing to make the most of their visit.”

For more information on the service, including routes and timetables, go to: https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/yorkshire/peak-sightseer

Chesterfield is ideally located in the centre of the UK, and is easy to reach via road and rail. Find out more about visiting Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

Looking for things to do in Chesterfield this summer? Head over to our Summer in Chesterfield page for some great ideas.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, Peak Sightseer, Visit Chesterfield, visiting chesterfield

Support leads to unique Chesterfield wedding business winning major awards

28th May 2024

A unique Chesterfield wedding content creator, which received support from a business start-up scheme has gone on to scoop a prestigious award.

The Relaxed Bride is a modern content creator service, which provides a contemporary approach towards capturing weddings and other promotional events.

Owner, Chloe Ryans-Docherty spotted a potential niche in the wedding market, and decided to launch her business with the support of the Vision Derbyshire business start-up support initiative.

She explained how the decision to launch her own business came about: “It all began when I first noticed a trend emerging in the US and Australia on TIKTOK, which sparked an idea: why not bring this concept to the UK? After further research, I discovered that while the trend was in its infancy here, there were already a few established brands offering this.

“Attending my first wedding alongside the photographer who had captured my own special day, Jo Greenfield I realized the potential to carve out a niche in the market. Since then, my journey has been nothing short of remarkable, surpassing my expectations in terms of growth and impact.

“What sets me apart from other wedding content creators is my subtle approach. While many rely heavily on social media trends and transitions, I much prefer to remain behind the scenes, capturing the raw, authentic moments that unfold between the scripted ones on my iPhone.

Chloe said the support she received from Vision Derbyshire played a key role in launching and growing the business: “The support and guidance I’ve received from Vision Derbyshire over the past six months have been invaluable. Initially recommended to me by a friend and fellow wedding supplier, the program has been instrumental in helping me navigate the journey of starting my own business.

“With no prior experience in entrepreneurship, I needed direction, and Sara Martin from Vision Derbyshire has been amazing. Patiently guiding me through essential aspects and breaking down complex concepts, Sara helped me create a cash-flow plan that I could comprehend and follow for future — considering maths was never my forte in school!”

Since going from strength-to-strength, The Relaxed Bride has recieved a videography award from the Hitched Wedding Awards. The business had been on the Hitched directory, and the organisation recognised Chloe’s business following a long list of positive reviews.

Chloe added: “Little did I know that these reviews were being closely monitored by Hitched themselves. It came as a complete surprise when, in February, I was honoured with an award from them. This award has reaffirmed my commitment to providing exceptional service and fuelled my passion even further!”

The Relaxed Bride has also been recognised with a ‘Best International Innovator’ award for the inaugural 2024 Loverly List – another scheme aimed at recognising top businesses in the wedding sector.

Speaking about running her business in Chesterfield, Chloe commented: “Chesterfield is a small town but holds a unique advantage with access to nearby cities like Derby, Sheffield, and Nottingham, all within an hour’s reach. Despite its size, Chesterfield has always been my home, and I can’t imagine ever leaving. I’ve always been a homebody at heart.

“I have worked with so many talented wedding suppliers right here in Chesterfield, what’s even more exciting has been the hidden gems of wedding venues that I never knew existed around me!

“To anyone considering starting a business in the area, my advice is simple: just go for it! Chesterfield has seen significant development recently, with numerous new office spaces springing up in the town centre. It’s about taking that leap of faith and trusting in your vision!

Find out more about The Relaxed Bride on the Hitched website here or at https://www.the-relaxedbride.com/

Find out more about locating your business in Chesterfield here, and for more information on support available to local organisations, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Photo of female content creator taking photo of bride on smartphone

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Chesterfield wedding photographers, Love Chesterfield, The relaxed bride, Vision Derbyshire business support

More than 1,100 businesses engaged so far with Accelerator business support

28th May 2024

A growing number of businesses in the East Midlands are benefitting from tailored business support, thanks to the Accelerator project.

Evaluation of the project’s performance at its halfway point has identified over 1,100 businesses that have been engaged and are working with a business adviser to boost their growth.

The project, which is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), was established in the autumn and is being delivered by East Midlands Chamber in Derby, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicester.
Alongside one-to-one support from a business adviser, the project has so far also delivered the following:

• 102 growth vouchers up to the value of £2,000 to help businesses access tailored, 1-2-1 consultancy support to introduce digital technology and green measures.
• 300 workshops and webinars successfully attracting over 7,000 delegates.
• 50 energy saving and improvement audit approvals to help businesses create an action plan to save money.

Businesses signing up to the project have also been introduced to the wealth of additional support available from other regional and national sources. For innovative SMEs, this includes growth and scale-up support from Innovate UK Business Growth. Manufacturing micro and small businesses can also benefit from Made Smarter support on how to switch to advanced and automated technologies.

East Midlands Chamber Deputy Chief Executive Diane Beresford said:

“From our launch events onwards, we’ve listened to what businesses want in terms of what, where, when and how they would like to access Accelerator support.

“Chamber and D2N2 Growth Hub support is undoubtedly at its best when businesses are given a helping hand to apply for support from other sources, including grant funding and pitching for investor support.

“The Accelerator project has some challenging targets including the creation and safeguarding of jobs, creating new enterprises, accessing new technologies or processes and engagement in knowledge transfer activity. We’re certainly on the right trajectory to achieve that and for any business yet to sign up, I would urge them to seize the opportunity before the project ends in March of next year.”

Learn more about the Chesterfield accelerator scheme and other initiatives available to support businesses in the town: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in Chesterfield Accelerator, chesterfield business news, chesterfield business support, chesterfield news, east midlands chamber

New Chesterfield play areas open in time for summer

28th May 2024

As part of the council’s more than £1 million investment in its parks, four new play areas have opened across the borough of Chesterfield.

The Mayor of Chesterfield and the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire officially opened a new play area on Cottage Close in Poolsbrook on Wednesday 15 May.

New play areas have also been installed in Tapton Park, Thirlmere Road and Devonshire Avenue North. All three replace existing play areas that were no longer fit for purpose.

The new play areas all include a range of equipment and have been created in consultation with children from local schools. In Poolsbrook equipment has been installed to suit every age including larger adventure style items such as a zip line and giant climbing frame.

Funding for the new play areas has been secured through a combination of funding, including the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Valencia Communities Fund and the Community Infrastructure Levy which is a charge on certain developments in the borough.

Councillor Jonathan Davies, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “It is fantastic to see our planned investment in play areas across the borough being delivered. We are proud of the fantastic green spaces we have throughout the area and our commitment to further investment in these spaces aims to ensure our parks are a feature that our residents will be able to enjoy for many years to come.

“We’ll be continuing to deliver our Parks and Play strategy over the next three years, and this will see even more investment in play spaces across the borough.”

Cottage Close play area in Poolsbrook was officially opened by the Mayor of Chesterfield, Councillor Jenny Flood and Colonel John Wilson OBE DL, the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire.

Councillor Jenny Flood said: “It was wonderful to be able to open this new play area and meet the children who will benefit from it. It will be fantastic for the children to see the fruit trees grow in the park and eventually be able to harvest the communal fruit. This was a great way to start my Mayoral year, both me and Heather have been involved in Youth Work for many years and we understand the importance of providing spaces like this that the whole community can benefit from.”

Originally hailing from Poolsbrook, Colonel John Wilson OBE DL and his brothers and sisters have provided for the planting of thirteen trees in the play area, to represent his parents and their eleven children.

John said: “It was very special for my family to have these trees and a new picnic bench in Poolsbrook; all eleven of us went to the primary school next to this play area and to create a living memorial is something we are very pleased to have been able to do.”

The new play areas have been partially funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Valencia Communities Fund, and the Community Infrastructure Levy.

Chesterfield Borough Council has been awarded £2.693 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The money will be spent over the next three financial years (running until 2024/25) on a range of projects which will benefit local residents and businesses.

The Valencia Communities Fund provides funding from the landfill tax credits and is used to provide funding to community projects across the country.

The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a levy that local planning authorities can charge on certain types of new development in their area. The money is used to support necessary development by funding infrastructure that the Council local community and neighbourhoods have identified through the Local Plan, such as new road schemes, park improvements or new primary schools.

Did you know residents in Chesterfield have better access to green spaces than anywhere else in the country? Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in chesterfield business news, Chesterfield community news, chesterfield news, Chesterfield parks, Chesterfield play areas, Love Chesterfield

Make the most of the summer holidays in Chesterfield

28th May 2024

Are you looking to make memories with family and friends during the summer holidays? Whether you’re simply looking for somewhere to help the youngsters burn off energy, or you fancy a big day out with lots of entertainment, we can guarantee there’s something to suit everyone this summer in Chesterfield!

Here’s our selection of some of the things you could be getting up to once the schools break up, but don’t forget to check out all the great events taking place across the town throughout the year here.

Family Fun Activities

From having a go at paddlesports to experiencing an open air cinema – there’s plenty of fun to be had.

Enjoy views of Chesterfield

All families should visit the iconic Crooked Spire at least once. Why not count your way up all 152 steps to reveal wonderful views over Chesterfield?

As part of the Crooked Spire Tower Tours you can learn about the history of the medieval church, see the bells, visit the inside of the famous Crooked Spire, and enjoy stunning views over Chesterfield from the viewing platform.*

*Please note: we are glad to report that a pair of Peregrine Falcons is raising a small brood on the church tower. This means that it is currently illegal for to take visitors outside until the chicks are fully fledged (usually early July). Until then the full tours (including the spectacular view of the inside of the Spire) will take place without the external view. During this time tickets will be at the reduced price of £8 adult, £4 child.

Have a go at Paddlesports

The summer holidays is the perfect opportunity to try something new. With the choice of paddleboards, kayaks and canoes you could have a go at paddlesports along the Chesterfield Canal.

Experience open air cinema

Fancy watching a film outdoors under the stars? Well, there’s a few opportunities you can experience open air cinema this summer.

Watch the classic Jurassic Park, al fresco under the stars! Get together with family and friends under the start for a night at the movies.

Grab a blanket and a camping chair as more family favourites are being shown at Hardwick Hall. Films include a Grease sing-a-long, Mamma Mia Extrabbaganza, The Gruffalo/Stick Man and a Frozen sing-a-long.

Watch a legendary joust at Bolsover Castle

Why not do something fun and learn about history at the same time? Experience the exhilarating spectacle of speed and skill as four legendary knights compete for honour and glory in the Legendary Joust at Bolsover Castle.

Spend time down at the farm

Of course, you will get the chance to meet lots of cute animals at Matlock Farm Park, but you can also get involved with lots of fun themed events. Learn all about dinosaurs at the Dinosaur Fun Day, see The Big Bubbleman, be a Superhero for the day and much more.

Give roller skating a try

Looking for something different to do with the kids? Introduce them to roller skating with this weekly roller disco at Queen’s Park Sports Centre.

The roller disco’s are high energy combination of roller skating, thumping beats and awesome lighting shows.

Roller Energy are at Queen’s Park Sports Centre every Saturday 6.15pm – 7.30pm. Before visiting, it is advisable to check social media for updates regarding the sessions. Roller Energy UK are on Facebook here.

Family-Friendly Events & Festivals

Look forward to the return of annual favourites and opportunity to try new events and festivals.

Enjoy family fun at the Chesterfield Children’s Festival

After last year’s huge success, Chesterfield Children’s Festival is returning. So, if you want to celebrate childhood, imagination and fun, head to this free weekend festival of fun!

Dig into history at the Festival of Archaeology

Celebrate archaeology & community at the Festival of Archaeology, through hands-on and inspiring activities. Moreover, there will be talks and activities exploring the history of the area.

See the country’s leading strongmen and mighty women compete

Looking to end the summer holidays doing something memorable? See the country’s leading strongmen and mighty strongwomen compete at the Peak District Highland Games.

Memorable day out at Chatsworth Country Fair

The Chatsworth Country Fair is a truly memorable day out for all the family, with all the fun of the vintage fairground for the young and young at heart.

With a packed programme of grand ring entertainment, a cookery theatre and fine food village, there’s lots to see and do. In the showground, you can try your hand at heritage country sports, rural country crafts, and admire the vintage and military vehicles on display.

Shows and Entertainment

You can make sure the family has a memorable summer by enjoying one of the many great shows being shown at the Winding Wheel Theatre.

Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out

Peppa Pig is back in her oinktastic brand new live show, Fun Day Out! Packed full of songs, dance and muddy puddles, Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out guarantees giggles and snorts for all Peppa Pig fans, and a perfect introduction to theatre.

Kids clubs

Looking for some time to yourself or have work commitments during the summer holidays? Here is a selection of kids clubs which will keep your little one’s entertained.

Burn off energy at Spireites Soccer School

Chesterfield FC’s mixed Soccer School runs every school holiday, Monday to Thursday 9am-3:30pm – the perfect opportunity to let the kids run off some energy.

Learn new skills at a tennis camp

Have fun, make friends and test your skills at this Summer tennis camp! Keep your kids active and engaged with activities galore. A perfect blend of sports and fun for an unforgettable holiday.

Available for children from 2-14 years of age, the camp is packed with fun-filled activities, ensuring your child a memorable time while learning and playing their favourite sports.

Children’s Holiday Climbing Club

Over the summer the Healthy Living Centre will be running children’s climbing clubs for ages seven to 17 years old. These session teach the basic skills of climbing such as safety issues, top-roping, bouldering, climbing techniques and is a great introduction to climbing.

From events to festivals, entertainment to shows and family activities – there’s plenty of ways to make memories during the summer holidays. Make sure to see what else is on this summer…

Complete your family day out by visiting one of our friendly food and drink venues. Here’s 50 different places to consider dining out at…

Looking for even more inspiration? Check out guide for things to do with the family…

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Activities in Chesterfield, chesterfield events, Family fun in Chesterfield, Summer Holidays, Summer in Chesterfield, things to do in Chesterfield

New Chesterfield Town Board launched to drive almost £20m investment in the town

24th May 2024

Plans to invest almost £20m in Chesterfield over the next decade have taken a major step forward, with the launch of a new independent board which will oversee how and where the funding is spent.

Local business leader Dominic Staniforth has been appointed to chair the new Chesterfield Town Board – sitting alongside representatives from other local businesses, community and voluntary organisations, and the public sector, including representation from Chesterfield Borough Council.

It follows the Government’s ‘Long-Term Plan for Towns’ announcement in October last year, which named Chesterfield as one of 55 UK towns to benefit from the new funding initiative – which aims to give local communities a greater voice in shaping improvements across the town.

Board members have now held their first formal meeting where it was agreed to run a public consultation exercise in June, giving local people the chance to have their say on how the money should be invested.

In line with Government guidance, a representative of Chesterfield Borough Council sits on the board, and the authority will also act as the board’s accountable body. However, all decisions about how the £19.5m worth of endowment-style funding is invested will be made by the Chesterfield Town Board, in consultation with local people.

Dominic Staniforth is a Partner at BHP LLP Chartered Accountants – which has a base at One Waterside Place – and has been an active part of Chesterfield’s business community for many years. Speaking in his role as Chair of the Board, he said: “Chesterfield is already a great town full of wonderful people and organisations that share a common purpose to make it even better – a place to live, work, invest and study – and this funding will further bolster our ability to deliver on that collective ambition.

Dominic Staniforth, BHP LLP Chartered Accountants

“I am honoured to have been invited to become Chair of the new Chesterfield Town Board and it’s fantastic that leaders from across the town, and the council, have already begun work to identify how and where this funding could make the greatest impact for local residents and businesses.

“Listening to the views of local people and understanding where they think this investment could make the biggest difference is at the heart of this work and we will be sharing more information about how to get involved in the coming weeks.”

Working closely with the council, the Board will now oversee the development of a long-term vision statement and three-year investment plan – to be developed following consultation with local people, and based on what they see as priority areas for investment. This must be submitted to the Government for approval later this summer.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of the council, said: “We have really strong and innovative business and community networks here in Chesterfield and this is again another great opportunity to bring people together – backed by millions of pounds worth of funding – to deliver projects which will make a real difference to the quality of people’s lives over the next 10 years.

“We’re delighted to welcome Dominic to the role of Chair, as a local business leader with extensive experience of the area, and a shared passion and commitment to make the town of Chesterfield thrive for generations to come.”

In line with Government guidance, the funding must be spent across three key themes, which include:

Safety and security – to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour.
High streets, heritage, and regeneration – making the place more attractive and accessible to residents, businesses, and visitors.
Transport and connectivity – improving access to the town centre, supporting greener modes of travel and enhancing public transport options.

More information about the Chesterfield Town Board and how people can get involved in shaping its future plans will be shared soon.

Image courtesy of Derbyshire Economic Partnership

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in bhp, chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Chesterfield regeneration, Chesterfield Town Board, chesterfield town centre, Love Chesterfield

Relocation to Elder Way a recipe for success for Bottle &Thyme

24th May 2024

Chesterfield’s award-winning bar and restaurant, Bottle & Thyme, is expanding to bigger premises in the town centre later this year.

The family-owned and run business will relocate from its current premises on Knifesmithgate, where it has been based since 2017, to the flagship corner unit in the former Co-op department store on Elder Way.

The owner of Elder Way, Jomast, has agreed a 10-year lease on the 3,153 sq ft unit which also boasts an outdoor courtyard. The lease signing follows hot on the heels of the opening of Hotpod Yoga in Unit 7 of the prominent Elder Way regeneration scheme last month (April).

Bottle & Thyme is expected to relocate to the new site in August which will be triple the size of its current premises directly opposite Elder Way. Additional jobs will also be created at the business following the move.

In addition to the Elder Way unit, Bottle & Thyme owners Gavin and Hannah Grainger will also be retaining the Knifesmithgate premises following the move and have plans to develop it later in the year.

Excited to make the move, Gavin and Hannah said: “The new unit hugely increases the amount of space we currently have and gives us the opportunity to have separate areas for the bar, restaurant, and private functions, as well as outdoor space for dining and drinking.

“Chesterfield town centre does not have the type of venue that we will be creating at Elder Way. It’s a very exciting time. Having been based opposite Elder Way for seven years, we already know the location works well so to be able to move across the road into larger premises is excellent for us. I see what we are creating at Elder Way as a first step in our vision of a new leisure quarter for the town.”

Mark Hill, Jomast’s Commercial Property Director said: “I am delighted that Bottle & Thyme will become part of Elder Way. Hannah and Gavin share our vision to create a premier leisure and hospitality quarter in the heart of Chesterfield. Alongside Hotpod Yoga and Premier Inn our vision is coming to life and we are talking to a number of future potential tenants for this prestigious site.”

Work is now underway to transform both the frontage and interior of the unit as well as festoon light the outdoor courtyard area. Gavin added: “Although much larger, it’s important to us that we keep the feel of a smaller venue at Elder Way. We have many longstanding customers and we’re delighted the additional space means we will now be able to offer them everything we want to, as well as be dog friendly.”

The new private function area, known as The Glass Room, will cater for functions of up to 30 guests, Hannah explained: “Being located a short walk from the town hall, there is high demand for micro weddings. Word has already spread that we will be able to offer event space in the new unit at Elder Way and we have had a number of bookings.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see this family-run business go from strength to strength – building up a great following in the heart of Chesterfield, and now expanding into new, bigger premises on Elder Way, and expanding the size of their team. We wish Gavin and Hannah all the best in their new base – and also with their future plans for their existing building on Knifesmithgate.

“This is the second business to relocate to the redeveloped former Co-op building in recent months, and it’s great to see the momentum now building in this part of town. We look forward to welcoming more businesses to Elder Way in the future.

“It’s a fantastic and attractive town centre location, with the council’s recent investment elevating the space to create as key gateway into the heart of our historic town. This will link through to wider improvements across the town centre which are due to start in the summer, as part of our multi-million pound Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield scheme which will create more welcoming and better connected to spaces in which to shop, socialise and enjoy local events.”

In addition to the transformation of the former Co-op department store into seven street-level units and a Premier Inn by Jomast, the area has been further boosted by Chesterfield Borough Council’s £1 million public realm improvement scheme.

In addition to the public realm improvements, Bottle & Thyme’s location on Knifesmithgate has enabled the business to benefit from the Premier Inn hotel located at Elder Way. Hannah added: “Some guests enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner with us, with many returning to Bottle & Thyme every time they stay at the hotel. We’ve got to know many guests well over the years. The opening of Premier Inn on Elder Way in 2019 has and continues to make a positive impact on our business.”

Five units now remain available at Elder Way, with joint agents WSB Property and FHP reporting strong interest from a number of operators.

For enquiries or further information about the units, visit www.elderway.co.uk

For information and menus, visit www.bottleandthyme.co.uk

Planning to visit Chesterfield? Make the most of your trip by heading over to our visiting and events pages.

For more information on locating your business in Chesterfield Town Centre, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Bottle & Thyme, Chesterfield bars, chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, chesterfield restaurants, chesterfield town centre, Elder Way, Love Chesterfield

Canal restoration gets underway in Staveley

23rd May 2024

The Chesterfield Canal Trust celebrated the start of its latest phase of restoration with a groundbreaking ceremony at Staveley.

Lee Rowley MP, Toby Perkins MP and Cllr Tricia Gilby, the Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, were joined by Tony Mitchell, a director of O’Brien Construction Ltd. and Peter Hardy, the Chair of the Chesterfield Canal Trust.

O’Brien’s are carrying out the first phase of an 18 month long project. They will do major groundworks to clear the route of the canal and landscape the surrounding area. Next, the abutments for the new Trans Pennine Trail bridge will be built and, in September, this 38 metre long structure will be lowered into place.

Later a length of canal will be reinstated along with a new lock and another accommodation bridge at the bottom of Bellhouse Lane. There will also be a pumping system and a new Bellhouse Basin will be built. The towpath will be upgraded to a multi-user trail, stretching all the way across the Doe Lea Valley to Renishaw.

Finally, the whole area will be planted with wildlife friendly vegetation and a seating area for people to enjoy the tranquillity of the newly restored canal will be installed. You will be able to follow the progress of the works as they happen by going to the Chesterfield Canal Trust’s website.

This is one of ten projects funded through the Staveley Town Deal, a £25.2 million investment in Staveley through the Government’s Towns Fund. The total cost of the canal restoration is around £6 million, most of which will come from the Town Deal. The Trust currently has an appeal to raise £50,000 to go towards the cost of the gates for the new Keith Ayling Lock, named after a former Chair of the Trust. To learn more, go to the Chesterfield Canal Trust website.

Peter Hardy welcomed everyone and said this was the culmination of three years of preparatory work. Toby Perkins said: “The canal is a huge asset to Chesterfield and the Trust’s volunteers are involved in something that genuinely matters and makes a difference to very many people”. Cllr Gilby was pleased that another of the Staveley Town Deal projects was getting underway and said, “This wonderful asset will boost the tourist economy and people can use it to walk and cycle, possibly even to get to work”.

Lee Rowley also praised the volunteers and said: “It’s just amazing to see that this has got going, it’s taken a number of years to do but we’re now seeing another example of Levelling Up in action”. Tony Mitchell said that O’Brien’s were very happy to have the opportunity to do the works which will bring joy to thousands of people for many years to come.

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.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Chesterfield canal, Chesterfield canal restoration, chesterfield canal trust, chesterfield developments, chesterfield news, Chesterfield regeneration, Invest in Chesterfield, Love Chesterfield, Staveley town deal

50 independent retailers in Chesterfield

15th May 2024

There are many great independent retailers in Chesterfield town centre and across the borough.

From clothes to records and from toys to special gifts we are sure you will find something special from our friendly independent retailers!

Here is a list of 50 retailers businesses to try. Click on the name of the business to be taken to their website and learn more.

Short on time and want to jump to a specific section? Click on the links below:

Food & drink heaven
Marvellous markets
Latest fashion
Clothing for him
The perfect gift
Something sparkly
High street names supporting local
Hobbies and interests
Home furnishings
The best of the rest

You can find more inspiration on shopping in Chesterfield here.

If you have experienced great customer service or found that unique gift? Make sure you leave a review or share a post on your social media and include #LoveChesterfield

Food and drink heaven in Chesterfield

Looking for tasty treats? Then try these independent retailers.

1. Cheese Factor – A family business that has been trading for 50 years, stocking 150 different cheeses from around the world in their town centre shop.

2. Brampton Brewery – Brampton is an award-winning brewery with a number of local pubs. Their beer seller shop stocks a range of alcoholic drinks to try.

3. Northern Tea Merchants – A tea and coffee lover’s dream. Over two million cups of their tea and coffee are enjoyed every week!

4. Hogg Norton – Award-winning independent producer and retailer of fruit liqueurs and other alcoholic beverages.

5. Bakery at the Batch – Lots of tasty bakery and sweet treats to eat in or take away from this artisan bakery and coffee shop.

6. Teresa Lambarelli’s Italian Cafè and Pasta Bar – Not just a cafe and pasta bar, they also produce their own hand-crafted sauces, cook-at-home pasta boxes, salad dressings, pastes and biscotti.

7. Street Spirit – Stock an amazing and unique range of gin, spirits and beer in their store.

Marvellous markets in Chesterfield

Chesterfield was granted its market charter in 1204, now you can browse a range of independent traders across the outdoor market and market hall.

8. Chesterfield Markets – Lots of great traders and their products in the outdoor and indoor markets. You will be surprised what you can buy!

9. Steph’s Sustainable Stuff – Chesterfield’s first zero-waste shop based on our historic outdoor market. Meeting all your low and zero-waste needs.

10. The Market Co – Organiser of the Chesterfield Artisan Market and champion of artisan sellers. Chesterfield Artisan Market takes place on the last Sunday of the Month.

11. Charles Hedley – Award-winning retailer of pre-owned luxury fashion located in Chesterfield Market Hall.

12. The Watch Box – Watch repairs and sales in Chesterfield Market Hall.

Finding the latest fashions in Chesterfield

From clothing boutiques to bridalwear, Chesterfield’s independent retailers will dress you with style.

13. Dotique – Independent clothing boutique, stocking a variety of well-loved designers.

14. Blanc – Leading independent womenswear retailer, based on Chatsworth Road, Chesterfield, selling a wide range of stunning clothes.

15. M’s Accessories – Boutique store located in The Yards in Chesterfield.

16. Little White Dress – Off the peg wedding store located on Chatsworth Road in Chesterfield.

17. Dressed4U – Budget-friendly boutique catering for special occasions!

18. Love Too True – North Derbyshire-based online fashion manufacturer and retailer.

19. The Baby Linen House – Located on Packers Row in the heart of Chesterfield, this family-run store specialises in baby and children’s wear.

Clothing for him

From vintage to formal and from an outfit for a night out to casual wear, Chesterfield’s independent retailers have got you covered.

20. Zebra – Well-established men’s retailer located near the Winding Wheel Theatre.

21. Rebel Menswear – Men’s clothing retailer located in the heart of Chesterfield.

22. Ingmans – Clothing retailer and cobbler based in Chesterfield town centre.

23. Brand Runner – Supplies the latest designer clothing and accessories at up to 80% off RRP!

24. Oliholpho – Boutique selling high-quality smart-casual clothing, with unusual brands not normally found on the high street.

Find that perfect gift in Chesterfield

Discover unique gifts for the special ones in your life.

25. Shop Indie – Check out quirky, unique and independent gifts from the Vicar Lane store.

26. Libby’s Gift Shop – Libby’s is all about simple pleasures – enjoyable shopping with lots of unusual treasures in their gift shop.

27. Lucky Magpie Salvage – Over the years they have become incredibly knowledgeable in the world of unique finds and salvage. Supplying the likes of Pinewood Studios and assisting clients with stunning pieces for the home and business.

28. Huckleberry Willow – An emporium of design-led products, unusual gifts & home accessories.

29. West Studios is located on Sheffield Road and their shop has a range of unique gifts and cards from independent creative businesses.

Something sparkly for yourself or someone special

Whether you are looking for fine jewellery for that special occasion or costume jewellery for everyday use Chesterfield’s independent Jewellers have you covered.

30. Adorn Jewellers – Located in the Shambles, Adorn provides a range of unique jewellery and unusual wedding rings.

31. John Stevenson Jewellers – Established over 45 years ago, and still one of the most prestigious family jewellery businesses in Derbyshire.

32. C. W. Sellors – Located on Low Pavement in Chesterfield, C.W. Sellors is one of the UK’s leading independent fine jewellery and luxury watch retailers.

33. Stuart Bradley – Family-owned and run jewellers and gift shop situated right next to the Crooked Spire.

High street names supporting local

Don’t miss our shopping centres full of high street names as well as local independent gems.

34. Vicar Lane Shopping Centre – Discover lots of independent retail and food and drink businesses at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre. They organise some great events as well including outdoor cinema on their big screen.

35. Waterstones Chesterfield – The national book chain holds a great range of books by local authors and regularly hosts signing events.

Time to relax – Music, bikes, games and more!

However you like to spend your leisure time, Chesterfield’s retailers will be able to help you.

36. The Little Ark – Sustainable and eco-friendly toys and gifts for your little ones.

37. Geeks Headquarters – The perfect place to play trading card games, board games, roleplaying games and miniature games! They sell Magic the Gathering, Yu-gi Oh!, Pokemon and much much more!

38. R.D. Models – This Whittington Moor shop sells radio-controlled cars and more!

39. Tallbird Records – Chesterfield’s longest-established record shop. They sell new and old vinyl, second-hand CDs, record players, merchandise, artwork, books & other stuff!

40. Vanishing Point Records – Recently expanded independent vinyl store located in the Yards in Chesterfield.

41. J.E. James Chesterfield – Located just off the Whittington Moor roundabout, J.E. James has been supporting people in Chesterfield to find the perfect bike for over 20 years.

42. Real Time Music – Perfect for every musician, find your latest instrument in the heart of Chesterfield.

Home and furnishings

Find the perfect accessories for your home.

43. Etienne Blinds – Located close to Chesterfield Market Hall, Etienne provides a vast range of made-to-measure blinds, curtains and accessories to suit every need.

44. Now and Then – Quality home decorations and furnishing store located on Chatsworth Road.

45. Clarissa’s Interiors – Find those finishing touches for your home at Clarissa’s Interiors, located on Vicar Lane.

46. Delightful Decor – Explore handmade homeware and gifts, all made by British artisans. Furthermore, why not make the most of Delightful Decor’s bespoke picture framing and mounting service?

The best of the rest

There is such a diversity of retailers we couldn’t fit them all into our categories. So here are some more eclectic independents!

Florist arranging flowers at Hoods Florist on Whittington Moor

47. Fred’s Haberdashery – Fred’s stocks a wide range of haberdashery and craft items such as trimmings, ribbons, felts etc.

48. Hoods Florists – If you’re looking for the perfect bouquet, then you can head to Hoods Florists, based on Sheffield Road in Chesterfield.

49. Barkworthy Dog Emporium – Everything you could ever need for your special pooch, unique handmade collars, healthy wholesome treats, birthday cakes, toys, bath goodies and even gifts for dog-loving humans!

50. The Glass Yard Speedshop – A haven for all things motorcycle-related, located at the Glass Yard.

Keep an eye out for our gift guides throughout the year with some unique items to purchase for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and more.

You will also find out about new opens, latest news, events and ideas for things to do in Chesterfield on our social media pages:

www.facebook.com/chesterfielduk

www.twitter.com/chesterfielduk

www.instagram.com/chesterfielduk

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Christmas, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Love Chesterfield Awards, Summer, Visiting