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Less Than Zero Barbers partners with local football club to champion community activities

Chesterfield’s Less Than Zero Barbers has announced a joint-venture with “The Home Of Football” Sheffield FC, to work collaboratively on a range of local community projects.

The multi-award winning barbers based on Soresby Street in Chesterfield Town Centre, has partnered with the Dronfield-Based club to encourage kids to get involved in the game and also their local community.

Sheffield Club was formed in 1857 and were responsible for the original rules of the game, most of which are still applicable. The club is recognised by FIFA as the oldest in the world.

Martin Wallis-Keyworth, Owner at Less Than Zero Barbers commented: “Less Than Zero are proud to be working together with this amazing club as we share core values of being community focused, conducting ourselves with integrity and being respectful and inclusive.”

Dylan Ralph, Partnership Manger, Sheffield FC commented: “Working together we have some exciting plans which will become apparent over the coming months.”

As part of the plan, Less Than Zero will offer local school leavers the opportunity to get an NVQ Level 1 in barbering during the 6-week summer holidays. To provide the service, the business will be working with Realise, the U.Ks Apprentice Provider of the Year.

The company was recently recognised amongst the Top 50 Small Business Apprentice Employers in England, taking 36th spot on the list developed by government’s Department for Education.

Furthermore, Sheffield FC is working towards providing an innovative ‘pop up barbershop,’ focusing on improving mental wellbeing and self esteem. Details on all collaboration activities will be posted on social media (Instagram: _sheffieldfc and lessthanzerobarbers).

For anyone interested in a Level 1 Traineeship, Realise Training have a dedicated phone number – Tel: 0333 444 3973.

Less Than Zero Barbers 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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New physiotherapy clinic opens at The Glassyard

A leading provider of physiotherapy treatment has moved to The Glass Yard development in Chesterfield, offering a better equipped and more spacious location to treat patients.

White House Clinic shares this new venture with longstanding partner One Health, a team of specialist surgeons and healthcare managers working together to provide the best possible diagnosis and treatment for patients.

This partnership provides an unrivalled offering to patients, allowing them to receive a comprehensive service of treatments funded by the NHS, with patients able to choose One Health as a service provider through the E-referral System (Choose & Book), as well as through private appointments.

The Glass Yard is a practical, as well as strategic choice of location for White House Clinic, close to its previous location at Chesterfield FC’s Technique Stadium but with even more convenience for parking and space for additional facilities.

As part of a major development in Chesterfield, The Glass Yard gives patients an enjoyable, attractive experience during their treatment with plenty of disabled parking.

James Walker, Service Development Director and Senior Physiotherapist at White House Clinic commented: “We’re thrilled to be making a move to The Glass Yard, where we can keep offering our patients the exceptional treatments they deserve, in comfort and a relaxed setting. Working with our partners at One Health, we’re ready to give Chesterfield an even better service.”

Jessica Sellars, Director of Operations & Service Development at One Health said: “What a great time to work at One Health. We’ve always enjoyed working closely with our partners at White House Clinic, and our move to The Glass Yard will cement that relationship even further. The real winners are, of course, our patients — with an upgraded experience for their consultations and treatments, and better opportunities to get the services they need.”

The Covid-19 pandemic meant the White House Clinic had to offer physiotherapy appointments by video link and telephone, with just emergency appointments taking place in person. Despite the impact of lockdowns, the White House Clinic thrived and is now investing in new locations and upgrading to larger facilities such as The Glass Yard.

With ten successful and established White House Clinic locations across Derbyshire, Sheffield and South Yorkshire, and the impressive Glass Yard facility will enable it to expand its services, provide jobs in the local area, and welcome more patients for treatment.

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

Streets of Chesterfield lit up for Ashgate Hospice’s Sparkle Night Walk

Thousands of fundraisers lit up the streets of Chesterfield at Ashgate Hospice’s annual Sparkle Night Walk, sponsored by Vertu Toyota over the weekend.

Donning flashing bunny ears and pink outfits, more than 2,000 people stepped out for the return of the hospice’s biggest fundraiser on Saturday 9th July.

The 10k walk is expected to raise over £200,000 to help fund the end of life care and support the charity provides across North Derbyshire.

The event began and finished at Chesterfield Football Club’s Technique Stadium, with walkers setting off at 10pm and live entertainment starting the party at 7.30pm.

Amongst those taking part was Mick Winfield, 67, from Chesterfield who was walking in memory of his brother, John who died in the care of the hospice at just 39 years old.

Mick said: “This is my third time taking part in Sparkle Night Walk and I keep coming back to support the hospice because of the excellent care they gave my brother. Everything they did was perfect, and I just want to give something back for what they did for my brother and my family.”

Another person walking was 57-year-old Julie Lodge and her friend Jane Fox, both from Chesterfield. Julie was walking in memory of her mum, dad and friend Frank who had died just a few weeks earlier.

Julie said: “Ashgate Hospice has been there to support me and my family several times. They were there to care for my dad when he was living with lung cancer, and they were there again when my mum was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

“Most recently my friend Frank was cared for on their Inpatient Unit and again the care was phenomenal. I am lucky that I am fit and healthy and I just want to be able to give something back to those who are less fortunate than me.”

Jack Wood, Head of Fundraising at Ashgate Hospice, said: “From everyone at Ashgate, thank you to every person who turned out to take part in our Sparkle Night Walk and made it such a success.

“It’s incredible to see so many people coming together and we were amazed to see over 2,000 people sparkling for their community!

“We know that many people taking part are doing so in memory of their loved ones, many of whom were supported by Ashgate. That shared experience adds to the sense of community and creates a wonderful atmosphere, where people support one another.

“I would also like to praise everyone behind the scenes, including an army of incredible volunteers across the entire route and our generous sponsors for covering so many of our costs.

“Without them, we simply wouldn’t be able to organise such a large and exciting event for the people of North Derbyshire.”

Super early bird registration for next year’s event has opened, with the walk set to take place on Saturday 1st July 2023.

To find out more about next years Sparkle Night Walk and to register for the early bird price of £7 go to: www.ashgatehospice.org.uk/sparkle-night-walk

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

Image taken by Darren Worthy

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Popular Chesterfield Vegan Market to become a monthly event

It has been revealed that the new Chesterfield Vegan Market will feature as a regular monthly event, following its huge success since launching in the historic heart of the town centre.

At the first event in May, the Vegan Market attracted more than 30 stalls, providing a huge variety for customers; ranging from chocolate treats, vegan cheese, award winning gluten free pies, a local animal rescue centre, handmade items, zero waste goods and even TV star vegan caterers.

One of the stallholders, ‘Huns’ were recently on the BBC’s ‘Britain’s Top Takeaway’ with their chicken style burgers. Hot food caterers were plentiful with a great range including crepes, curries, bangers & mash, Ethiopian food, burgers and pizzas.

Following the launch event in May, the Vegan Market has continued to go from strength-to-strength with another successful outing in early July. The popularity of the market has ensured the event will return on the first Saturday of each month from September through to the end of 2022.

Chesterfield Vegan Market organiser Sam Brundish, of Rainbow Monkey Events commented: “It was great to bring this event back to Chesterfield in early July and, by popular demand, this will be a monthly event on the first Saturday from September through to the end of the year!

“We are absolutely delighted to be bringing something quite unique to Chesterfield town centre. We would urge customers to come and support their local market traders – we welcomed The Refill Fairy, Cup and Saucer Teas and Flower Girl Plants – all of whom are regulars at Chesterfield market. Customers will also get to see traders from elsewhere in the Midlands who only bring their varied foods and products to Chesterfield Vegan Market.

“One tip we would say is arrive early to avoid disappointment – stallholders quickly sell out of gluten free pies, cheesecakes, bliss balls, sausage rolls and cheese!”

Find out more about Chesterfield Vegan Market at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-vegan-market/

Specialist markets in Chesterfield include the Artisan Market which takes place on the last Sunday of every month and the Chesterfield Record Fair which takes place on the second Sunday of every month.

Chesterfield Town Centre provides an enjoyable shopping experience for all customers, with a great range of national brands and quirky independents. You can always pick up something special and different, whether you’re looking for a special gift for a loved one or something special for your home. Find out more about shopping in the town at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/

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

“Chesterfield has the raw ingredients to become a great place to visit”

Chesterfield is set to undergo a major transformation in the next few years, with work taking place to improve the town’s public spaces; creating a welcoming and attractive place for visitors.

The town’s Property and Construction Group continues to help in shaping these developments, working with partners to ensure the quality of the built environment across the town meets those ambitions.

Tony Buck is a member of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Steering Group and Associate Director at Oasis Studio. He has given his views on the importance of maximising the built environment, to increase Chesterfield’s reputation as a vibrant and welcoming town with a strong and diverse visitor economy.

By many Chesterfield isn’t considered a typical tourist destination and we must ask ourselves why? Over the last 12 years, I’ve become very familiar with the town and it’s clear our town has bags of raw ingredients to offer the tourism sector.

It’s no secret that millions of pounds worth of investment are beginning to take shape across the town and I’m confident these exciting plans will evolve Chesterfield into a superb visitor destination. From working closely with Destination Chesterfield and the Property and Construction Group it’s clear that attracting more tourists to the town is high on the agenda.

Let’s take a dive into some of the key developments and unpack why the built environment is vital in terms of attracting more visitors.

A good place to start is the ‘Heart of Chesterfield’ project; a major transformation in the town centre with refurbishment plans for several key sites. When I think about Chesterfield, I think ‘handsome market town’ so I’m particularly excited to see the marketplace revamp take shape.

This is a great opportunity to re-imagine the current model and create a more defined and vibrant area for visitors to shop. As part of the revamp, we’ll also see the flexible space host other events such as festivals, cultural celebrations, and community gatherings.

This has been core to the strategy and acts as a key ingredient in attracting a wider, more diverse audience beyond the typical market visitor of today. Once complete I look forward to visiting and hope to discover amazing produce, street food, craft beers and gifts that are unique to Chesterfield and add to the cultural narrative of the town.

Bookending of the ‘Heart of Chesterfield’ project are plans to remodel and refurbish the Stephenson Memorial Hall. I’m particularly intrigued about the impact this will have on the visiting economy. Packed full of history and architectural merit the proposals aim to extend the Pomegranate Theatre and provide a modern museum offering.

Alongside this gallery and café spaces provide visitors with a place to enjoy. Once complete this landmark building will extend the town’s cultural offering and provide a go-to destination for visitors to enjoy live events.

Beyond this, the Chesterfield Station Masterplan aims to create a welcoming first impression of Chesterfield for visitors by rail. Currently, the existing station and public realm are a little uninviting.

Diving into the details it’s clear that a real sense of arrival, framing of the crooked spire and progressive urban design are considerations to address this. The people of Chesterfield are welcoming and open for business, I certainly look forward to a station that reflects this for visitors.

It’s clear to me that the developments highlighted above, combined with the wider regeneration proposals, will result in our town centre becoming a more attractive, safe and healthier place for visitors to spend time and immerse themselves in the Chesterfield economy.

In my opinion, Chesterfield’s best tourist attraction and visitor playground is the Peak District. It’s located on our doorstep and attracts millions of tourists to the area each year.

Those visitors planning a weekend trip or holiday need more incentives to stay the night in Chesterfield. Currently, the night-time attractions are relatively limited… Shout-out to Ches-Vegas. To maximise the visitor economy, more must be done to increase this offering. There are development plans that seek to address this (some mentioned above), but it’s worth highlighting the requirement for more available hotel space for visitors to stay.

Circling back, Chesterfield has the raw ingredients to become a great place to visit. The community is inviting and we’re home to a diverse selection of businesses that cater for the tourism sector.

We’re located in the heart of the UK with great transport connections. We also have handsome buildings with bags of history and so much beautiful scenery on its doorstep. Chesterfield is underrated as a tourist destination and with the planned future investment it will only get better. I call for all local businesses and fellow Chesterfield Champions in the town to celebrate this!

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Development, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Chesterfield’s Fox & Goose launches new range of conferencing facilities

An historic Derbyshire hostelry and meeting place with stunning views of Chesterfield has expanded it’s offering, with a range of conferencing and business facilities now available to book.

Fox & Goose has launched ‘Work and Play’ on Pudding Pie Hill, offering a first-class conference venue for local businesses to impress clients in one of the most picturesque locations in our area.

The new package includes a choice of meeting and conference rooms including:

  • The Priory Boardroom – a private space for up to 10 people.
  • The orangery – Featuring great views of the Derbyshire countryside for up to 40 people.
  • Abbey Suite – Large events space for up to 100 people.

All packages are available for half-day and full-day delegates and can include buffet lunches, 2-3course dinners, evening dinners and wine flights.

Craig Lynch, owner of The Fox and Gosse commented: “The Fox & Goose on Pudding Pie Hill is one of Derbyshire’s oldest hostelries dating back all the way back to 1392. The monks of Beauchief Abbey and Chander Hill used to meet there in the 14th Century, which gave the place its name.”

“Its significant redevelopment over the past decade has seen it transformed into a gastro-pub and leading Wedding and celebration venue with private rooms and extensive outdoor areas to suit any occasion.

“After the change in work patterns post-covid, the venue is now branching out offering its unique setting and facilities to the business community for meetings, conferences, social gatherings or even individual work stations.

“With stunning views over Chesterfield, ample free parking, three rooms of various sizes all with natural light, air conditioning, super-fast fibre broadband and full audio-visual facilities, everyone can have the office they dreamed of.”

With easy access from both the UK and farther afield and its splendid location on the edge of the Peak District, while still being close to major cities, means that Chesterfield can offer a multitude of opportunities to mix both business and pleasure. Find out more about the town’s range of conference venues at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/conferences/

The Fox & Goose Inn 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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More than 200 local businesses now included in Chesterfield’s Unhampered map

People across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire are being encouraged to get their hands on the first release of the Unhampered map of Independent Businesses.

Unhampered is a new online directory of Chesterfield’s independent businesses, set up by Chesterfield’s independent businesses, supported by Chesterfield’s independent businesses – and driven by a passion for Chesterfield to thrive.

It features over 200 shops, restaurants, pubs, food suppliers, local service providers, events, blog pages and so much more, all in one place www.unhampered-chesterfield.co.uk, putting Chesterfield independents, literally on the map.

The project comprises of a community of independents working together for Chesterfield, and the first physical deliverable is a paper map showing the locations of 80 independent businesses in the town centre and along Chatsworth Road.

The maps are slightly smaller than A3 and fold down to fit nicely in a handbag or pocket. They’ve been distributed to several local businesses, the tourist information centre, plus hotels and accommodation venues so visitors can find some of our best businesses, with a little help from Unhampered.

Phase 1 (the website) was developed by local businesses; Defeye Creative, S40 Local and S41 Local magazines and Phase 2 (the map) is now available thanks to funding from Unhampered Founder Members; Adorn, Bottle & Thyme, Ginspired, Ingmans, Libby’s, Odyssey Restaurant, Pizza Pi, Tallbird Records, The Café at Libby’s, Vanishing Point Records and Vintage Tea Rooms.

Any businesses in Chesterfield who want to get involved with Unhampered can do so by contacting Paul Chapman at S40 Local magazine – paul@s40local.co.uk

Andy Ingman from Ingman’s Cobblers, Footwear & Clothing of Burlington Street is a Founder Member. He commented: “we were really impressed by what the Unhampered team delivered over lockdown to support Chesterfield’s independent businesses for free, and we’re now happy to help them take the next steps to build the site and promote our town”.

“We’re excited to have the latest phase of Unhampered off the ground,” says Paul Chapman from Unhampered and S40 Local magazine. “We have so much to offer and have a real passion for supporting small independent businesses, it’s these guys that are keeping the town centre alive. We are totally independent from any external funding and are massively thankful to the founder members who have come on board to date.”

Unhampered is offering a limited number of Founder Members packs at £396 for two years membership, which includes extra benefits for those taking up the offer and helping provide set-up funding.

The Unhampered socials have seen increased followers on Facebook and Instagram pages, with the team committed to keeping followers up to date with what is happening across Chesterfield’s business community.

Defeye Creative and S40 Local 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, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Chesterfield Pride 2022: How your business can celebrate our LGBTQ+ community

Chesterfield is set to gather in celebration later this month, as one of the biggest Pride festivals across the region returns to the town.

The celebration of our LGBTQ+ Community will see thousands of people in attendance, to raise awareness of diversity and inclusivity in all walks of life.

As we approach the event, we’ve been finding out how your business can help to support and celebrate staff, clients and customers who identify as LGBTQ+; and how this can have a positive effect on your business in terms of raising profile and enabling further growth.

Ed Fordham is a Chesterfield Borough Councillor and Derbyshire County Councillor, he was the first LGBT+ person in Britain to get engaged to his same sex partner with the passing of the equal marriage laws in 2013.

Sharing his experiences of living and working in Chesterfield, Ed has penned the following blog post to encourage more businesses in implementing a clear and definitive diversity and inclusion policy…

It’s really quite simple: business that understand, embrace and celebrate diversity in their values are more successful. This applies to all aspects of diversity and inclusion, but in this blog post I am exploring the issues for Chesterfield businesses and the LGBT+ communities.

Derbyshire is, I think the only county in England that has two LGBT+ centres – one in Derby and one in Chesterfield. Indeed Derbyshire LGBT+ is a long standing and successful charity serving the community all year round and in good times and in bad. This year we are celebrating 50 years since the first Pride March in the U.K. In London in 1972. Here in Chesterfield our Pride Festival is in year 8. Pride is a celebration, a festival and a party, but crucially it is also a protest, a vigil, a march and a gathering of the community in numbers. It’s safety in numbers for the LGBT+ communities.

Across Chesterfield many companies employ people who self identify as LGBT+ but for each and every one of those staff members they often have an internal dilemma about how well known and public they are about their security.  I forget the number of times that I have had to correct people over my own identity. Indeed, I still get assumptions that my wedding ring signals that I have a wife rather than a husband.

Chesterfield Pride will see 6,000 people gathering in Stand Road on Sunday 24th July and the net spend, the investment and the purchase of food and drink alone will be significant for local traders and businesses.  In the run-up to Pride spend on fashion, clothing, hairdressers, shoes and more besides is significant in the Borough.

Further, it is known and understood that businesses of the 1950’s that were dominated solely by male managers and men only boards were unrepresentative and staid.  Accordingly it is now accepted that business and companies that know their workforce, embrace their identity and ensure they are included, listened to and enabled are more effective.  In addition they are more fleet of foot in a shifting economy, and in a world where companies want to be seen and noticed companies that celebrate Pride, empower their staff and reflect the modern world.

The best employers understand their employees, know that they should feel welcome, respected and represented at work. Inclusion in decision, plans and strategy drives better individuals, business and organisational outcomes.  And by celebrating Chesterfield Pride in way that us visible and staff led means that staff are able to bring their whole selves to work. All of the evidence shows that when LGBT+ employees feel free to be themselves , everybody benefits.  It is further accepted that employee inclusion is picked up by customers and support and commerce increase in line with awareness.

There are national scheme for large employees by Stonewall, but we are fortunate in having such a strong and vibrant Derbyshire LGBT+.as they provide Rainbow Accreditation for companies locally.  There are three entry levels: Rainbow Allies, Rainbow Connection and Ranbow Partnership. The level depends on your size of business and the associated costs are pegged accordingly.

Please, do what you can for Pride this year in your business, company and shop window, but for the future and long term, contact Derbyshire LGBT+ today and register for Rainbow Accreditation.  Contact John Yates-Harold johny@derbyshirelgbt.org.uk

LGBTQ+ Leaders in Chesterfield 

Chesterfield Pride Sponsor

Chesterfield Borough Council

Chesterfield Borough Council has been announced as headline sponsors with Chesterfield Pride for the 2nd year in a row, continuing its support of the annual celebration.

Cllr Sharon Blank, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for governance, said: “We’re thrilled to be sponsoring Chesterfield Pride again this year and to continue this great partnership. It is a fantastic event for our borough and our sponsorship sends a clear message that we stand together as one community to celebrate our diversity with pride.”

The Council also has a clear policy and strategy to welcome equality and diversity in the borough, recognising that both equal treatment and positive action are necessary to counteract discrimination.

Activities to ensure the strategy is implemented includes The Equality and Diversity Forum; a group of representatives from statutory partners, community groups and local individuals with an interest and/or expertise in equality and diversity. The Forum members work together to share ideas, best practice and to raise awareness in the community of equality and diversity.

Find out more about Chesterfield Borough Council’s Equality and Diversity strategy here. For more information about the Equality and Diversity Forum please email policyteam@chesterfield.gov.uk

Chesterfield Royal Hospital

Chesterfield Royal Hospital

Tom Harrison, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Facilitator said: “At Chesterfield Royal Hospital we are proud supporters of Pride, and once again delighted to be taking part.

“We understand the value of bringing your whole self to work and support these values as a Trust. Several of our colleagues have completed the Stonewall role model programme and are in the process of setting up a staff network to support this learning. We are listening to both colleagues and patients – our listening exercise at Pride three years ago saw us develop training to support our gender diverse staff and patients through e-learning – we revisited last year at Pride and received positive feedback from those who had engaged with us. We are currently listening to views on gender inclusive language and are looking to introduce single occupancy unisex toilets at minimal cost. 

“We are proud of the work which our Royal Cultural Community does to promote and support our BAME and international colleagues – alongside our Be Yourself group. We offer a rainbow badge scheme helping colleagues to commit to being an ally and offer rainbow lanyards to colleagues so that our commitment is visible in all areas of the Trust. We will be flying the LBGT+ flag outside our Main Entrance with pride.”

To find out more about diversity and inclusion at Chesterfield Royal Hospital, go to: https://www.chesterfieldroyal.nhs.uk/work-us/information-candidates/diverse-workforce

 

joe 1 Chesterfield Pride

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

Vicar Lane to show sporting action live on the big screen throughout the summer

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre in the heart of Chesterfield is inviting visitors to enjoy some of the big sporting action live on the big screen this summer.

The Centre has launched Summer in the Square, providing shoppers to take a break, sit back and relax amid a busy day shopping and view the day’s big sporting events, along with a range of other fun activities.

Visitors will be able to pull up a Vicar Lane deck chair on the outdoor lawn in St James’ Square and watch Wimbledon broadcast live until 10th July. The Commonwealth Games will then be shown live from Birmingham from 28th July – 8th August.

Shoppers and visitors are also being encouraged to bring family along and take advantage of the giant games around the square for everyone to get involved with.

There games include giant chess, connect 4, table tennis and more. All the games are available to play for free, and booking isn’t required.

Vicar Lane Summer in the Square

Sarah Bowler from Vicar Lane said: “After the success of our Jubilee weekend where we saw so many people using the area to relax and play games – we are delighted that we can extend our outdoor space for the warmer weather and invite people back to catch all of the sporting events that run through until early August. It certainly feels like a summer to remember this year and we are delighted to be part of that for our visitors and their families”.

The Shopping Centre is home to a plethora of well-known national brands and retailers, along with a great range of popular and unique independent shops and cafes. Find out more about the centre at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/chesterfield-town-centre/vicar-lane-shopping-centre/

Vicar Lane 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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Popular Chesterfield Canal Walking Festival set to return this September

A popular Walking festival in which participants get to explore some of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire’s most stunning scenery is returning in September 2022.

The fourth Chesterfield Canal Walking Festival will run from 10th to 18th September, with 40 walks on offer varying from a couple of miles, to the full 46 miles of the canal over three consecutive days.

Event organiser, Chesterfield Canal Trust once again believes it to be the largest canal-focused walking festival in the country, with more walks and walkers than any other.

The canal towpath is officially designated the Cuckoo Way and it runs from Chesterfield to the River Trent, through Derbyshire, South Yorkshire and North Nottinghamshire. There are walks taking place at various locations along its full length.

The Trust’s Cuckoo Way officer, David Blackburn said: “We look forward to seeing old friends again and hope to welcome many newcomers too. We believe that our 46 mile long canal has parts that are as attractive as any in the country. Do take the opportunity to join a walk in an area with which you are not familiar, and you will hopefully be pleasantly surprised.”

This extensive programme covers many popular areas – though perhaps using one or two different paths to previous years.

Some walks will take you through lovely countryside, others have special interest such as architecture and steam trains; one includes a visit to a football stadium. Most of the walks end near a café or a pub, and most are easily accessible by public transport.

No Chesterfield Canal Walking Festival would be complete without the very popular Boats & Boots that combine a walk with a ride on one of the Trust’s trip boats.

The Trust is very grateful to the walk leaders and those who assist them, representing many different groups and organisations, for devising checking and leading the walks. It extends especial thanks to its sponsors – Harworth Group, Canal & River Trust, Derbyshire Grants Programme, Eckington Parish Council and West Stockwith Parish Council.

Anyone wanting to participate in a walk must book in advance, either online or by ringing 01246 477569. All events taking place as part of the festival are free except those that involve a boat trip. More information can be found on the Chesterfield Canal Trust Website at: https://chesterfield-canal-trust.org.uk/

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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Chesterfield celebrates National Manufacturing Day 2022

We are celebrating manufacturers across Chesterfield today, as National Manufacturing Day 2022 is marked around the UK.

If you look closely, you’ll discover there is a strong manufacturing network in Chesterfield, helping to provide quality jobs, skills and growth to the local economy.

Destination Chesterfield helps to support the sector, by hosting the regular Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Manufacturing Forum.

The idea for Manufaturing Day 2022 came from Make UK, the manufacturers organisation. CEO Stephen Phipson commented: “This is a sector with amazing opportunities and we hope this first National Manufacturing Day will give people who have never had the chance to see inside their local businesses just what is going on and the opportunities available to them.”

We’ve pulled together a roundup of some of the great activity our local manufacturers have been getting involved with recently, showing the range of initiatives taking place amongst sector leaders in Chesterfield.

If you’re taking part in any activity on the day, we’d love to hear from you! Tag us in your social media posts at @DesChes on Twitter, or on the Destination Chesterfield Facebook and Linkedin pages.

MTM Products to open its doors to visitors

To mark the occasion, Local firm MTM Products Ltd is opening its doors to the whole community, showcasing potential careers and jobs on offer and running ‘through the keyhole’ tours of the business throughout the day.

MTM Products has been part of the Chesterfield community, manufacturing plastic labels & signs, aluminium and stainless-steel nameplates, graphic overlays and vinyl cut decals to OEM’s in the UK and EU for over 40 years. Along with other manufacturers from across the UK joining companies from aerospace to food and drink, the company will host a gigantic celebration to showcase production operations, how the company works and to put on a series of fun events throughout the day. Visitors will be able to talk directly to members of staff about how the firm’s operations work and what opportunities there might be available in the business.

Mark Niblett, Managing Director – Designate of MTM Products said: “We are delighted to be taking part in National Manufacturing Day showcasing our products, processes, tools and people. National Manufacturing Day gives us an opportunity to open our doors to interact with students, teachers and career advisors to visit our manufacturing facilities, showcasing the exciting opportunities of offer and ‘get behind the scenes of success’.

“As a growing company, we are continuously seeking creative designers and innovative engineers to get involved and help us to produce customer specific products. Our company can offer a diverse range of career opportunities from administration and logistics, design, engineering, finance, marketing and communication, product development, production, research and more.

“We are looking forward to local residents, school students and parents visit us for a day. Visitors will be able to meet our team and hear first-hand what inspired them to join us.”

Manufacturing leaders of tomorrow

Chesterfield is home to a number of apprentices working in the manufacturing and engineering sector.

If you are interested in a career in manufacturing, check out this blog where you can learn more about the roles in the sector from current apprentices as they talk about their career.

Made in Chesterfield campaign to inspire the next generation of manufacturers

Made in Chesterfield is a celebration of the manufacturing, engineering, science and technology industries and careers in the town.  The campaign looks to inspire the next generation to the industry, with businesses, schools and training providers coming together to showcase the sector.

Tours of local manufacturing businesses for schools are taking place once again this year. These tours allow students to discover more about Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths careers in and around Chesterfield.

Manufacturers involved in Made In Chesterfield include: CBE+, United Cast Bar, Superior Wellness, MSE Hiller, Penny Hydraulics, Aztec Oils and Weightron Bilanciai.

A Business drop-in session will take place at United Cast Bar on Thursday 14th July  for businesses to learn more about getting involved with the initiative. Local businesses in the manufacturing, engineering, property and construction sectors can book a place here.

CBE+ will host a tour of its factory as part of a ‘Backing Britain’ event

On Friday, 8th August Chesterfield Champion, CBE+ is set to host a tour of its factory, alongside business networking as part of a ‘Backing Britain’ Live breakfast event.

CBE+ are leaders in electroless nickel plating, precision engineering, gear cutting and laboratory testing, wire EDM, assembly, surface treatment & pressure testing.

Superior Wellness listed in the FEBE 100 growth index

Chesterfield’s Superior Wellness ranks 18th on the Growth 100: an annual list that reveals Britain’s fastest-growing privately owned businesses in the country where the founder or founders are still involved.

Superior Wellness leads the market as the world’s fastest growing hot tub manufacturer, creating premium, high quality products focused on improving your health and well-being.

In 2021 Superior Wellness moved into its brand-new headquarters in Chesterfield and has also recently opened a 10,000 sq. ft showroom with training facilities. The team headcount has also doubled to almost 70.

Chesterfield Manufacturers listed in Derbyshire’s top 200 businesses

A recent list of the top 200 businesses in Derbyshire, compiled by researchers at the University of Derby shone a light on the scale of Chesterfield’s manufacturing and engineering sector.

Included in the list were industry-leading firms based in our town, such as Robinson, Global Brands, Atlas Copco, Coster Aerosols, Xtratherm UK and many more.

Find out more about the list here.

East Midlands Chamber’s Manufacturing Support Network

Manufacturers across the East Midlands are being invited to join a new region-wide, business-led support network, which began in March 2022.

The East Midlands Manufacturing Network aims to help manufacturers share best practices and experience in a trusted peer environment; focus on issues and challenges that are a priority for manufacturing businesses; better understand the financial support on offer for their industry; and tap into specialist consultancy and advice on regulation and compliance.

Diane Beresford, deputy chief executive of East Midlands Chamber, said: “The East Midlands is a region with a strong manufacturing heritage and with the potential to have an equally strong future. What better way to secure the future success of manufacturing in our region than by bringing together key knowledge and skills to form a dedicated, supportive peer network. That’s why it’s so important the Chamber leads on this.”

Robinson celebrates 1st full year of sustainability pledge

Robinson, the manufacturer specialising in value-added custom packaging – is celebrating the successful first anniversary of its Sustainability Pledge.

Helene Roberts, CEO, says: “Our sustainability pledge helps bring our purpose to life – going above and beyond to create a sustainable future for our people and our planet. This underpins our business strategy and is focused on five pillars and 15 ambitious commitments which are woven into the fabric of our business. We have achieved many of our goals ahead of time and we are proud to celebrate a very successful first year”.

People successes included the introduction of a ‘People development plan’, Zero accidents and proactively championing employee health and wellbeing. An organisational culture survey for the entire workforce compared Robinson to some of the world’s most successful businesses identifying strengths which led to more teamwork and empowerment.

Other activities included enhanced employee communication, a diversity plan to ensure Robinson benefits from a variety of perspectives, skills and backgrounds, and investment in people development and training.

Pinelog moves to Chesterfield, bringing 30 new manufacturing jobs to the town

A leading manufacturer of timber holiday lodges and buildings, Pinelog Ltd, has relocated its production facility from Bakewell to Chesterfield and created 30 new manufacturing jobs in the town.

Nick Grayson, Chairman of Pinelog Group, a family-owned business which also owns Landal Darwin Forest and Landal Sandybrook Holiday Parks and employs approximately 240 people, made the announcement at the annual Celebrate Chesterfield event held on Wednesday 23 March at the Winding Wheel.

Known as a pioneer in the holiday park sector, the move to Chesterfield marks the end of Pinelog’s 10-year ambition to modernise their premises.

Corrugated Case Company marks 25 years of success

A Chesterfield-based manufacturer specialising in the production of sustainable packaging designs is celebrating 25 years of continued success.

Corrugated Case Company was set up in 1997 and over the years has offered packaging solutions to a number of clients, becoming an established presence within the corrugated market.

As a celebration for the firm’s 25th anniversary, it is hosting a competition for local junior schools to create innovative designs.

Laura Woolley, Internal Sales Co-Ordinator said: “We have given the school a task to complete by the 18th July, where they can either tie in with existing projects or make it a bit of fun before the summer holidays the winners will be drawn on the 20th July digitally.

“Once we have received all the entries in, we will share photos and recognition for there efforts via our social media platforms for taking part. Not only does it allow them to win a prize but its also nice for them to share in our 25th year anniversary celebrations and feel its worthy of sharing with the younger generation.

“It is very important to us to inspire the younger generation and we always do our best to help where we can within the local community.

Pronto Paints supports Wellbeing Challenge for Chesterfield Residents and businesses

Chesterfield’s Pronto Paints is working alongside the organisers of the Redbrik Chesterfield 10k race to promote healthy lifestyles among the town’s business community.

The Wellbeing Challenge offers local businesses the opportunity to gain 10 percent discount on Chesterfield 10k entry fees, as well as recognition from the 10k stakeholders as an organisation that promotes and supports a healthy lifestyle and mental health wellbeing.

David Beckford, Managing Director of Pronto Paints, said: “We’re delighted to sponsor the Wellbeing Challenge once again, after many years of involvement. It’s a great incentive for staff of local businesses like ours to create a running goal and stick to a training plan, while encouraging team members to get stuck into some healthy competition.”

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