Chesterfield

Meet the new Chesterfield bakery serving up delicious brownies

A new bakery has opened in Chesterfield, specilaising in serving coffee and decadent brownies to customers.

Located at York House, 38 St Mary’s Gate, this cozy spot is the latest addition for The Savvy Baker, which already boasts popular locations in York and Roundhay, Leeds.

After already proving popular in Yorkshire, the business is excited to bring its sweet treats to the Chesterfield community.

But that’s not all! The Savvy Baker Chesterfield is more than just brownies – the summer special drinks are already causing a stir among iced drink lovers.

Indulge in Iced Kinder, a chocolatey delight perfect for those hot summer days, or try Iced Biscoff, which comes topped with a creamy, dreamy Biscoff cold cream. For something refreshing and a little different, the Iced Raspberry Matcha is a must-try, combining the earthy notes of matcha with a burst of raspberry sweetness.

The Savvy Baker also proudly serves North Star Coffee, renowned for its rich and robust flavour.

box of sweet treats being held outside a shop

Situated in York House Business Centre, the new Chesterfield location offers a convenient and inviting space whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up or a place to relax. The shop is easily accessible, with an entrance from the street, making it a perfect stop for locals and visitors alike.

“We’re excited to expand our presence to Chesterfield and share our love of coffee and brownies with the community here,” said Savannah Roqaa Founder of The Savvy Baker. “Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where people can enjoy high-quality drinks and treats, whether they’re grabbing something on the go or taking a break from their day.”

With its central location and delicious offerings, The Savvy Baker Chesterfield is set to become a favorite spot for coffee enthusiasts and brownie lovers. The shop is open every day from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM, and until 4:00 PM on Saturdays, giving you plenty of time to drop by and experience what everyone’s talking about.

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member said: “I’m really pleased to see The Savvy Baker has chosen to open in our town centre, providing another great food and drink option for customers.

Chesterfield is home to many fantastic cafes, allowing visitors to spend time with their loved ones in the heart of our town, whilst creating jobs for local people.

“I would like to wish the Savvy Baker team lots of success in their new location.”

For more inspiration on delicious food and drink businesses across our town, along with great ideas to make the most of your time in Chesterfield, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

The Savvy Baker Chesterfield

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

Make the most of the summer holidays in Chesterfield

The summer holidays are now in full swing, which means for the next few weeks, you may need to find innovative ways to entertain the little ones!

Fear not, we’re taking some of the strain off mums and dads in Chesterfield this summer, with plenty of fun activities to help your youngsters let off some steam.

Why not explore our most famous landmark by climbing up to the foot of the crooked spire and taking in the glorious North Derbyshire scenery? Or take a trip back in time at another one of our local landmarks, Hardwick Hall… They’re hosting a Festival of Archaeology for history lovers, and an open-air adventure cinema for families who want to enjoy a movie under the stars.

For more history and heritage with some thrills attached, you’ll feel the tremble of hooves and see spectacular speed and skill at Bolsover Castle’s Legendary Joust on the 24th, 25th and 26th August.

Has your child ever said they want to be an astronaut when they grow up? Get them exploring the wonders of outer space at the Chesterfield Observatory. The facility will be opening its doors on selected dates throughout the summer for you and the family to get a glimpse of the stars and planets.

For something more down-to-earth, you can see the glorious green countryside and hear the peaceful sounds of the birds whilst getting active on Chesterfield Canal! You’re able to hire out paddle sports equipment at Hollingwood Hub on Saturdays and Sundays over the summer, making a splash with your family!

Chesterfield Canal Paddlespots 2

If they still have energy to burn, the kids will have a great time letting off some steam at the Chesterfield Lawn Tennis Club. The tennis camp takes place on three different weeks of the holidays, with several different sports on offer such as dodgeball, football, and hockey.

Don’t forget to make the most of our beautiful town and surrounding area by taking advantage of our wonderful cycling routes, transporting you through our picturesque scenery. Of course, stopping off in Queen’s Park for a cool ice cream and refreshing drink is a must!

Cycling Festival

See the strong men and women in action at Matlock Farm Park for the Peak District Highland Games. Witness the feats of strength on show as contestants pull tractors, lift extremely heavy stones and take part in the traditional caber toss. That takes place on Sunday, 25th August.

Man pulling a tractor

With so much happening on our doorstep for your family to enjoy, make the most of this packed summer in Chesterfield making memories with your loved ones and supporting our local businesses and attractions.

For more information, go to: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

Exhibitions to connect Chesterfield communities with history and culture

A new programme of events and exhibitions will celebrate history and culture in Chesterfield.

Chesterfield Borough Council has received funding from Arts Council England to host a variety of museum exhibitions being held at partner venues across the borough and a series of plays at the Winding Wheel Theatre. The programme will run until August 2025.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Whilst Chesterfield Museum and the Pomegranate Theatre are closed for refurbishment this is a fantastic opportunity to ensure that our residents can still connect with our history and culture.

“There is lots planned as part of this programme, but we’ve ensured all the exhibitions are family friendly with interactive activities to try. We’ve also put together a great schedule of plays with some classics as well as a selection of contemporary tales. We want lots of people to come along and support these events – keep an eye on our website and social media for more details about everything taking place over the next year.”

Peter Knott, Midlands Area Director at Arts Council England, said: “We’re delighted to award Chesterfield Borough Council £98,750 to provide a programme of creative and cultural activities for the community to enjoy while the town’s museum and Pomegranate Theatre are closed for a major renovation project.

“This National Lottery funding will support exhibitions, theatre, activities and events at venues across the borough, ensuring local people can continue to be inspired by museum collections, delve into local history and take part in enriching creative and cultural activities on their doorstep.”

The programme will kick off in September with the Chesterfield Menagerie exhibition being held in the Assembly Rooms. At this free exhibition, members of the public will be able to see some of the many animal-themed works within the museum collection and take part in some great family-friendly activities.

Chesterfield Town Hall in the evening, with a lit lampost

In October the museum team will set up an interactive Romans exhibition in Hasland Village Hall before a final exhibition for 2024 in Old Whittington which will focus on the Victorians. The exhibitions will showcase Chesterfield’s history during these periods, and there will also be interactive activities like dressing up and handling objects.

In 2025 exhibitions will include the Tudors, Vikings, Medieval and a look at the ‘Extraordinary Women’ who put our town on the map.

At the Winding Wheel Theatre, Rumpus Theatre Company will be bringing the classic George Bernard Shaw comedy, Arms and the Man, to audiences on Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 October.

Winding Wheel

Then on Wednesday 23 October, the Red Ladder Theatre Company will be presenting ‘We’re Not Going Back’, a funny yet moving musical tale of three sisters set in the 1984/85 miners’ strike. In 2025 the theatre will be hosting three more plays as part of this programme.

Chesterfield Museum and the Pomegranate Theatre is being transformed as part of a multi-million pound renovation project to create a modern visitor experience in the heart of the town centre.

The refurbished hall will bring together an extended Theatre, a reconfigured and modern museum, alongside new gallery space, a café bar, education and community facilities.

Funding for the project has been provided through the Government’s Levelling Up Fund with additional funding from Arts Council England’s Capital Investment Programme to install a ventilation system in the theatre auditorium and create a new Changing Places toilet.

To find out more about the transformation of Stephenson Memorial Hall visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/stephenson-memorial-hall

All the museum exhibitions happening around the borough over the next year will be listed on: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/museum

To find out more about performances at the Winding Wheel Theatre and to book tickets visit: www.chesterfieldtheatres.com

painting by local artist depicts an old ploughing method using horses

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Chesterfield Champions to get involved in Ashgate Hospice Sparkle Night Walk

Businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions are set to join thousands of people to raise funds for Ashgate Hospice this weekend.

The Sparkle Night Walk takes place each summer and sees people walking the 10km course through Chesterfield dressed in pink t-shirts and bunny ears.

The event helps to raise vital funds for the hospice, which provides end-of-life care for patients and support for their families.

Charlotte Butterworth, Events and Partnerships Manager at Ashgate Hospice, said: “We’re so grateful to all of the amazing businesses across North Derbyshire who will be taking part in our Sparkle Night Walk this year.

“The teams signing up and raising sponsorship for us will help fund care for the families who will need us now and in the future.

“We’ve had almost 3,000 people register for the event so far which is just incredible. We can’t wait to see so many of our supporters sparkling together on the big night.

“Let’s come together and do something amazing to raise funds towards vital palliative and end of life care in our region!”

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, commented: “It is great to see Chesterfield’s community coming together once again to raise funds for Ashgate Hospice.

“The work carried out by the hospice’s dedicated team to support people and families across our area is so important, therefore it is brilliant to see the community supporting this fantastic event.

“I would like to wish everyone taking part in the Sparkle Night Walk all the best on the night. I’m sure it will be another superb evening for our town.”

Find out more about some of the businesses in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire walking at this year’s event:

Banner Jones Solicitors

Four women stood outside office wearing pink shirts

Banner Jones is once again supporting Ashgate Hospice by participating in this year’s Sparkle Walk.

With a dedicated team of 16 participants, this is the fourth year that the law firm has participated in the event, having raised an impressive £1,500 in 2023, and around £1,000 in 2022.

Banner Jones Marketing Manager, Lynne Pope, said: “We are excited to be taking part in the Ashgate Hospice Sparkle Walk for the fourth year. It’s a charity close to our hearts.

“Having visited the hospice, I saw the quality of service and care provided to those who need it the most. We are proud to be raising money for this vital local service, to help it continue supporting the local community in such an important way.”

Further information about the Banner Jones team’s fundraising efforts can be found here.

NIBE

Group of people holding up signs and wearing pink t shirts

A member of the NIBE team is taking part in the walk, in memory of a colleague and friend who used to work for the company.

Alan Sanders said: “I will walk in memory of my good friend and work colleague Sven Ove, who passed just over a year ago.

Ashgate cared for him and others I know in their time of need, and it’s terrible to think that others in need may not be accommodated due to lack of funding. Please if you knew Svein, consider helping this vital service.”

Find out more on the team’s fundraising page here.

Graysons Solicitors

Sparkle Walk team - Graysons

Laura Cowan, head of Graysons’ private client team, said : “Everyone at Graysons Solicitors is buzzing with excitement as we gear up for the Sparkle Walk to support Ashgate Hospice in Chesterfield once more.

“Our team deeply values the opportunity to contribute to such a vital community cause. Last year’s event left a lasting impression on us all, and we are keen to create even more wonderful memories this year while raising crucial funds for the hospice.”

Donate to the team’s JustGiving page here.

Peak Pharmacy

Sparkle Night Walk 2023 Tom Hodgson Photographyby

Sparkle Night Walk 2023 by Tom Hodgson Photography

A team from Chesterfield’s Peak Pharmacy is set to take on the 10km course this Saturday.

Gillian Watters, P.A to the company’s Directors said: “Here at Peak Pharmacy, we wanted to focus our fundraising efforts on a local charity and chose to support Ashgate Hospice.  Being our local hospice care facility, many of us have personal experience of Ashgate caring for family and friends.

“The Ashgate fundraising team have done an excellent job helping collate our team registration details making it an easy team event for us to arrange.  We are very much looking forward to a fun evening with colleagues whilst raising money for such a worthy cause.”

Sponsor the team on it’s GoFundMe page.

Handelsbanken

handelsbanken ashgate fundraising team

Over the course of 2024, members of staff at Handelsbanken in Chesterfield will be undertaking a variety of activities to raise funds for Ashgate Hospice to support the incredible work they do.

In March, the team spent the day helping clear the woodland area in the hospice grounds for further redevelopment in the future to benefit the families using the hospice.

Throughout April, Handelsbanken Chesterfield collected new and pre-loved items for distribution to the hospice’s outlets in the local area.

Now, the team will be embarking on the 10km course to raise funds for Ashgate, and has already gone over a fabulous £4,500.

Donate to the team’s fundraising page here.

We Are Spaces

amy revell wearespaces

Chesterfield’s We Are Spaces will also be taking part in the walk. Find out more and donate to the team’s fundraising page at:

https://www.justgiving.com/team/wearespaces

 

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

Chesterfield launches development blueprint at real estate investment forum

A raft of opportunities to develop thousands of residential, industrial, and retail properties in and around Chesterfield, Derbyshire’s largest town, have been revealed at UKREiiF, a major event for UK and international real estate developers and investors.

Destination Chesterfield, which is responsible for promoting Chesterfield as a place to invest, published a map today highlighting new real estate and regeneration opportunities in the town. The map includes opportunities for new homes, light industrial, hospitality and leisure units around Chesterfield rail station, and retail, office and residential developments in Chesterfield’s historic town centre.

Investment map photo 2024

Land close to Chesterfield’s mainline rail station has been transformed in recent years through the Chesterfield Waterside project, one of Britain’s largest regeneration schemes. Hundreds of new homes on the development have been built and sold in the last three years alone, and all six floors of the One Waterside Place office development were let within a year of its launch in January 2023.

waterside place

Chesterfield Borough Council is enhancing the appeal of investment opportunities in the heart of Chesterfield with a £20 million regeneration project centred on key public spaces in the town centre and their connections. Due for completion in 2025, this project includes investment in Chesterfield’s historic market squares to support a broader range of festivals and community events.

New layout for Chesterfield Market with contemporary stalls, heritage colours, Market Hall in the background, town pump a feature

Market Square Chesterfield – artist’s impression

Chesterfield’s investment map also highlights opportunities for tourism-focused accommodation and retail developments at the PEAK Gateway Resort, a project to create a large-scale tourist and leisure destination on the eastern boundary of the Peak District National Park, and multiple plots at Markham Vale, a 200-acre business and industrial park located next to the M1. Now one of the UK’s premier manufacturing and logistics locations, Markham Vale is home to over 70 companies.

PEAK Gateway View

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, comments: “Chesterfield’s place as a thriving town and a great place to live and work is being enhanced through public and private investment and ambitious developments that will benefit people, businesses and communities across the town.”

“Chesterfield is seeing a surge in investment. New build completions exceed targets, demand for property is robust, and we continue to be a place where people see high-quality home ownership as a realistic option. Chesterfield is open to investment, it is a cost-effective business location, and it is a place where people want to live and raise families. That is why we are growing as a town.”

To download a copy of Chesterfield investment map, click here. 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , , , ,

Chesterfield Champions celebrate growth from global clients to award wins

Chesterfield’s business community continues to thrive from taking on global clients and new team members to scooping national awards.

Read the latest news from our town’s community of Chesterfield Champions below.

Crush rebrands global engineering firm

External of office building

Global firm, Ziemann Holvrieka, Germany

Creative marketing agency, Crush Design has finalised its rebrand for Ziemann Holvrieka. The global firm, based in Germany, specialises in the production of large-scale commercial liquid food and beverage processing equipment.

Crush says it transformed the company’s corporate image into a brand fit for a global leader in tanks and process technology. Following this, the team developed a full suite of new marketing assets. This included a multilingual website, sales presentations and brochures, a comprehensive brand guide, wayfinding and exhibition stands.

Speaking about the year-long project, Lucas Goebel, Head of Marketing at Ziemann Holvrieka said:

“Crush has revolutionised our brand identity. Their dedication extended beyond just our company, ensuring uniformity and cohesion across our group of companies. Natalie and her team’s attention to detail and commitment to the bigger picture have truly elevated our brand.”

Based in Chesterfield, Crush has offered expert services in brand, design and digital for over 20 years.

Seven wins for Superior Wellness

Two men in fluorescent yellow jackets in warehouse at Superior Wellness, Chesterfield

Superior Wellness, Broombank Park, Chesterfield

Global spa manufacturer Superior Wellness is celebrating after winning seven awards in the prestigious WhatSpa? and WhatSwimSpa? magazine Best Buy Awards 2024.

Three models of Platinum Spas – Refresh, Tokyo and Maximus hot tubs won coveted industry-leading awards from WhatSpa? magazine. The Aquark Mr Silence 7kw air source heat pump was also a winner.

To add to the firm’s awards roster, the Platinum Spas Helios and Eros swim spa models also scooped prestigious Best Buy Awards from WhatSwimSpa? magazine, as did the Aquark Mr Silence 11kw air source heat pump.

The Aquark Mr Silence 7kw and 11kw air source heat pumps were recognised, thanks to the patented airstream design technology; the sound level of Mr Silence is as low as a domestic fridge.

Gareth Ward, Global Sales Director, said:

“I am delighted that we have been awarded these Best Buy Awards; it’s our most successful year. The WhatSpa? and WhatSwimSpa? magazines and websites are a really important tool for the end customer to use when finding their perfect hot tub or swim spa.”

“It’s been a pleasure to see Superior Wellness grow to become such a worldwide success in the hot tub, swim spa and wellness sectors, especially since they are headquartered here in the UK,” explained Nick Clamp, WhatSpa? Media Group’s Editor-in-Chief.

From its base on the Chesterfield Trading Estate, Superior Wellness works with over 350 partners globally including the UK, USA and Europe serving thousands of customers worldwide.

Shorts team celebrates at the Xero Awards

Shorts team at the 2024 Xero Awards

Shorts team at the 2024 Xero Awards

Chesterfield accountancy business, Shorts has again taken home the Large Firm of the Year accolade at the 2024 Xero Awards. 

The team has the unrivalled achievement of being finalists in the category for four consecutive years, and winner for two out of the last three years.

On announcing the results, the Xero judges commented:

“Shorts continues to go from strength to strength, innovating and building on their success as a firm each year.

“They have demonstrated impressive growth and efficiency gains across the judging period through further adoption of technology, allowing them to optimise for new revenue streams.

“Their utilisation of Xero and the app ecosystem is second to none. What’s more, Shorts is committed to providing excellent service to clients, and building an impressive team culture.”

Malcolm Pope, Audit & Accounts Partner and Head of Genus, said:

“I am very proud of the progress that the Genus and Owner Managed Business teams continue to make in deploying innovative solutions that benefit our clients. This award recognises their absolute dedication to providing an unbeatable client service, and I’d like to thank and congratulate the whole team for their efforts over the last year.”

With a long-standing heritage of over 130 years, Shorts has grown from a local business to a nationally recognised award-winning firm.

Woodall Homes strengthens team 

Two new female recruits at Woodhall Homes

Louisa James (L) and Katie Holmes (R)

Chesterfield-based housebuilder Woodall Homes has expanded its finance team with two new appointments.

Joining as part of the company’s strategic growth plan, Louisa James takes on the role of financial controller. While Katie Holmes steps into the position of finance assistant.

Louisa and Katie both bring a fresh perspective to the business, with their proven track records in the financial sector and their strong skill sets adding to the experience of the current team.

Helen Day, HR manager at Woodall Homes, expressed enthusiasm for the new additions. She said:

“We are delighted to have welcomed Louisa and Katie to the Woodall Homes team. Their expertise will undoubtedly strengthen our finance department and contribute to our continued success and future growth plans.”

With six active developments and two upcoming developments across Derbyshire, South Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire, the Woodall Homes team strives to provide first-class homes and building communities.

BRM makes five senior promotions across firm

BRM promotions

Chesterfield and Sheffield-based law firm BRM is delighted to announce a string of senior promotions across its two offices after a period of significant growth.

BRM’s Real Estate team’s Mario Esposito and Adele Walker have both been promoted to senior solicitor, whilst Umara Zafar is set to qualify as a solicitor in May after starting at the firm as a paralegal before becoming a trainee.

In the firm’s Dispute Resolution department Kate Fowler has been promoted to Senior Associate, whilst Jennifer Knibbs and Annabel Denby Hollis become Associates.

The firm’s promotions come after a time of growth across the firm and they are a reflection of not only BRM’s success but also the individual’s outstanding performances within their departments.

Adrian Sheehan, Executive Director at BRM, said: “We are delighted to announce the promotions across the firm, and we would like to congratulate all of those promoted to new roles.

“Each promotion is a testament to the individual’s hard work, and it is important that we acknowledge excellence with the praise they deserve.

“We are passionate about creating a positive workplace for people to thrive and progress in. We’re proud to not only see promotions for Mario, Adele, Kate, Jennifer and Annabel but to also celebrate Umara as she qualifies as a solicitor after completing an undergraduate degree in Law and a Legal Practice postgraduate course at the University of Sheffield.”

Kate Fowler, Senior Associate at BRM, said: “I am so pleased to have received my promotion to Senior Associate. I have enjoyed three years at the firm, and it is a workplace that truly cares about its staff and career progression.

“I’m looking forward to starting my new role and continuing my career at BRM.”

The businesses featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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FWD Motion announces growth with latest business merger

FWD Motion Ltd., a full-service digital and print solutions agency based in Chesterfield, has announced a new partnership with CLM Digital Marketing Ltd., a provider of Content Writing and Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) services.

Established in 2005 by David Whiteley and Mike Priestley, FWD Motion has expanded its capabilities by joining forces with CLM Digital Marketing, further building on its commitment to delivering exceptional services to clients across various industries.

As part of this merger, Charlotte Marshall, formerly of CLM Digital Marketing, assumes the role of Director and Co-Owner of FWD Motion. Clients can rest assured that they will continue to receive the same outstanding service they have come to expect from CLM Digital Marketing, now under the FWD Motion banner.

Mike Priestley, Director, and Co-Owner of FWD Motion says, “The decision to merge these two businesses and partner with Charlotte was an easy one and was driven by recognition that our combined strengths create a more comprehensive offering for clients, encompassing a wider range of services to meet evolving digital marketing needs”.

FWD Motion, situated on the border of Sheffield and Derbyshire, boasts a growing team of professionals including designers, illustrators, animators, web developers, marketers, content creators, social media experts, print and installation specialists, event management videographers, photographers, and more.

The agency offers a comprehensive suite of services covering graphic design, digital marketing, marketing campaign creation, copywriting, website development, and now, search engine optimisation. Additionally, FWD Motion provides a complete range of print solutions, from branded merchandise and business cards to roller banners, advertising hoardings, and internal/external signage.

Charlotte Marshall expressed her excitement about the merger, stating: “I am delighted to join forces with FWD Motion, an established company synonymous with excellence in the industry. I look forward to leading a team dedicated to ensuring that the excellent websites created by FWD Motion perform well on search engines, with the ultimate goal always being to help our clients to grow their businesses”.

David Whiteley, Director, and Co-Owner added: “We are thrilled to welcome Charlotte on board. Her commitment to building lasting client relationships, prioritising environmental sustainability, and cultivating the team is a perfect match with our values. She is the ideal fit to lead FWD Motion into its next twenty years of success”.

For more information about FWD Motion Ltd. and its services, visit www.fwdmotion.co.uk.

FWD Motion 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 structural engineering company shortlisted for prestigious start-up award

The Managing Director of a Chesterfield-based structural engineering consultancy business has been shortlisted for a prestigious regional award.

Laura Holland, of Ecotech Engineers is amongst the nominees for the Start-up Award at the 2024 Generation Next Awards.

The Generation Next Awards are one of the biggest events in the annual calendar for the network of young professionals run by East Midlands Chamber in conjunction with headline partner the University of Derby.

12 categories will shine the spotlight on the outstanding achievements of people under the age of 35 in awards ranging from the Innovation and Technology Award to Generation Next Future Leader Award.  New to 2024 is the Investing in Young Talent Award aimed at businesses with a forward-thinking approach that provides mentorship, training and growth opportunities for young professionals.

Following a virtual judging process on 14th and 15th May Bustler Market in Derby will once again host the awards, this year taking place on 4th July.  In previous years the unconventional ceremony has featured a DJ, arcade games and street food.

Laura commented: “The Ecotech team are delighted to have been shortlisted for the Start Up Award! Building strong client relationships and a growing East Midlands construction sector have been instrumental to our success and ability to grow in recent years.”

East Midlands Chamber Director of Resources and Generation Next Lead Lucy Robinson said:

“Once again, the standard of applications received for the Generation Next awards has far exceeded expectation.  Taking a look at the calibre in this year’s list of finalists gives an idea how challenging the task of shortlisting was for the judging panel.  It’s wonderful to see the achievement of such talented young people getting the recognition they deserve.   With this array of young talent now unveiled, the stage is set for a fantastic ceremony at Bustler Market on 4th July.”

laura holland ecotech engineers

 Generation Next Awards 2024 finalists

Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Loughborough College

  • Alice Taylor – Your IT Department
  • Ben Taylor – Preci-Spark
  • Cerys Goodson – E.ON
  • Emily Barnes – Donaldson Filtration GB
  • Evie Culligan – The Fidelity Group
  • George Archer – OceanLED
  • Hannah Pritchard – Turner & Townsend
  • Rav Jackson – Stephen Eve Financial Planning
  • Rosie Summers – Caterpillar UK Ltd
  • William Murphy – Electrician

Creators and Makers Award

  • Olivia Waldron – MHA
  • Katie Michaels – Moti Me
  • Ollie Henderson – Purpose Media
  • Max Palfrey – Comfa
  • Alistair Bullock – Purpose Media
  • Ewan Johnson – Botso Limited
  • Morgan Jones – Hardy Signs
  • Jamie Quince Starkey – Down to Earth Derby

Customer Service Award

  • Benjamin Wileman – Select Car Leasing East Midlands
  • Elliot Pipes – Sort Legal
  • Daniel Burke – Delta 74 Private Investigations Ltd
  • Hayley Cousins – Loughborough College
  • Jack Marshall – Select Car Leasing East Midlands
  • Jenny White – Rosie May Foundation / Think Pink
  • Jessica Kelleher – Halborns Limited
  • Matthew Robinson – RBC Brewin Dolphin
  • Nicole Perkins – Futures Housing Group
  • Loredana Budhan – Rosie May Foundation / Think Pink
  • Stephen Atkinson – Longbow Venues
  • Rebecca Cliff – Nottingham Trent University
  • Thomas Shaw – Shaw Spark Electrical and Property Services

Entrepreneur of the Year

  • Joshua Leach-Aslam – Two Chevrons Group / Two Chevrons CIC
  • Oliver Smith – Miroproducts
  • Luke Beastall – Musclecoach U.K LTD
  • Katie Michaels – Moti Me
  • Ewan Johnson – Botso Limited
  • David Allerton – SE-LF
  • Emma Morris – Headway Derby
  • Jiten Anand – Inspirate
  • Stephen Atkinson – Longbow Venues
  • Jamie Quince Starkey – Down to Earth Derby

Environmental Warrior Award sponsored by Hydropath Technology

  • Ewan Johnson – Botso Limited
  • George Pritchard – Scenariio Ltd
  • David Allerton – SE-LF
  • Jamie Quince Starkey – Down to Earth Derby

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity Award, sponsored by Futures Housing Group

  • Emma Sharpe – Menphys
  • Katie Michaels – Moti Me
  • Max Palfrey – Comfa
  • Brogan Lees-Collier – Forsyth Barnes
  • Laura Till – AMBITION Sports Coaching Ltd
  • Fraser Annis – Anniseeds Ltd
  • Michaela Castillo-Williams – Epic Partners
  • Jiten Anand – Inspirate

Innovation and Technology Award, sponsored by Hardy Signs

  • Jake Ridgway – Design Only Gardens Ltd
  • Josh Donnell – Purpose Media
  • Finn Riggott – Cosy Direct
  • Max Palfrey – Comfa
  • Elizabeth Ashton – Loughborough University

Investing in Young Talent Award

  • Futures Housing Group
  • MHA
  • Your IT Department
  • Base 51
  • Purpose Media
  • De Montfort University Careers Team
  • Innovation Nottinghamshire
  • Longbow Venues

Rising Star Award, sponsored by Nottingham Trent University

  • Adhinav Jain – Enactus Derby
  • Amy Curtis – Loughborough College
  • Evie Culligan – The Fidelity Group
  • Fern Ritchie – Your IT Department
  • Jemima Prater – The Maynard (Part of Longbow Venues)
  • Lucy Hilton – Cosy Direct
  • Lydia McDonald – Treat Kitchen
  • Nicole Perkins – Futures Housing Group
  • Sarif Sarker – Growthack Digital
  • Scarlet McCourt – trentbarton

Start-up Award, sponsored by Nottingham University Business School

  • Alex Taylor – Endeavours Adventures
  • Danielle & Ben Slater – Stephen Eve Financial Planning Ltd
  • Jamie Quince Starkey – Down to Earth Derby
  • Katie Michaels – Moti Me
  • Laura Holland – Ecotech Engineers Ltd
  • Max Palfrey – Comfa

Volunteering & Charitable Impact Award, sponsored by ITS Technology Group

  • Joshua Leach-Aslam – Two Chevrons Group / Two Chevrons CIC
  • Bradley Hall – Turner & Townsend
  • Emma Sharpe – Menphys
  • Alicia Anderson – Reuseabox
  • Katie Michaels – Moti Me
  • Jenny White – Rosie May Foundation / Think Pink
  • Loredana Budhan – Rosie May Foundation / Think Pink
  • David Allerton – SE-LF
  • Michaela Castillo-Williams – Epic Partners

Future Leader Award, sponsored by University of Derby

  • Chris Allcoat – Turner & Townsend
  • Samantha O’Neill – The Derby Conference Centre Ltd
  • Jamie Quince Starkey – Down to Earth Derby
  • Katie Michaels – Moti Me
  • Jack Brewin – Hays Specialist Recruitment
  • Emma Sharpe – Menphys
  • Nicole Perkins – Futures Housing Group
  • Ruby Birks – Purpose Media
  • Taylor Wayne Gee – Design Only Gardens Ltd

Tickets for the Generation Next Awards 2024 ceremony can be purchased here

Ecotech Engineers and East Midlands Chamber support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Generation Next Awards 2024

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Chesterfield’s Whittam Cox appointed to lead revamp of well-known Sheffield hotel

A Chesterfield architectural practice has been appointed to lead the refurbishment of Sheffield United Football Club Hotel, located at Bramall Lane.

With 155 rooms, a rejuvenated restaurant, bar, fitness centre, ballroom and guest suites, Whittam Cox’s vision for the new DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield City hotel encompasses modern design elements infused with nods to Sheffield’s industrial past.

Helen Davis, Head of Interior Design at Whittam Cox, shared her enthusiasm for the project, saying: “As a locally based firm, we are passionate about this opportunity to reimagine this landmark hotel. Our goal is to provide a cohesive design throughout that seamlessly integrates modern interiors with nods to Sheffield’s unique culture and heritage, recognising the city’s resilience and innovation.”

tv to door Whittam Cox Bramall Lane hotel plan

Drawing inspiration from the city, we aim to infuse the hotel’s design with subtle yet impactful references to Sheffield’s industrial legacy. Contrasting this, with a colour palette, influenced by the natural beauty of the Peak District and Sheffield’s status as ‘The Outdoor City’, a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests will be created.”

Richard Farrar, Managing Director of Leaf Hospitality, expressed his excitement, stating: “We are delighted to embark on this exciting project at Bramall Lane on behalf of the club. The DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield City conversion will elevate the hospitality experience for visitors and fans alike. This is a really special project, and we’re delighted to kick off.”

Whilst the work of Whittam Cox takes the company and its staff around the entire UK, its focus and impact in Chesterfield are of equal importance to the organisation. Supporting local communities, economy and built environment is something the company is passionate about. Whittam Cox has been involved in recent projects such as the Chesterfield Station Masterplan, Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, Chesterfield Waterside and many others.

Lounge-&-Bar_cropped Whittam Cox Bramall Lane

The company is also a member of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group, which Whittam Cox Director Andy Dabbs currently chairs.

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

Andy Dabbs

Andy Dabbs, Whittam Cox Architects

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Show your love for Mum this Mother’s Day in Chesterfield

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, now is the time to show some appreciation and spread some love for the amazing mums in Chesterfield, whilst enjoying all the unique offerings and charm of our town.

Here are three great ways you can show your love for Mum, whilst also supporting our town and enjoying everything Chesterfield has to offer.

1. Surprise Mum with some fantastic gifts from Chesterfield’s independent shops

Dotique 873x466

Take a stroll down the picturesque streets of Chesterfield, and you’ll find a treasure trove of quirky shops with handmade items, made by people with a passion for great products and services.

From stunning jewellery to the perfect bunch of flowers, our local shopping hubs have so much choice when it comes to memorable gifts. It’s an opportunity to give our high streets a much-needed boost, whilst treating our mothers to a gift that is as unique as them. Our businesses will help you go beyond the ordinary, helping you to treat mum to locally sourced food and beverages, crafted with passion and care by our town’s talented producers.

Looking for a last-minute present? See our Mother’s Day gift guide here.

2. Show your appreciation by treating Mum to her favourite meal

Couple dining at Casa Hotel

Of course, no Mother’s Day celebration is complete without indulging in your mum’s favourite meal. Fortunately, there’s no need to get stressed about the cooking! Chesterfield’s independent culinary scene is once again pulling out all the stops to offer your family an unforgettable dining experience.

Local restaurants are gearing up to pay tribute to the extraordinary mothers in our lives, presenting a menu of unforgettable dishes that will make this Mother’s Day truly special. Get ready for some mouthwatering dishes and special menus to show our mums that they’re one of a kind.

Check out our guide to dining out this Mother’s Day. 

3. Give Mum the chance to let her hair down

Couple enjoying the spa at ringwood hall

If Mum likes to get her dancing shoes on, we have some fabulous acts performing in Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel theatre this year, with Shaun Ryder, Aled Jones and the legendary Showaddywaddy coming to town. On top of that, tributes to familiar favourites such as Queen, Tina Turner, Abba and Elton John will give her a night to remember.

See what’s on at the Winding Wheel Theatre here, or visit our events listings page for more great ideas.

Or, if she’d rather relax and wind down, why not buy her a voucher for one of Chesterfield’s local spas or hotels? Look out for some of the luxurious packages being promoted by the likes of Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa, DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park, and Casa Hotel.

See our guide for places to visit in Chesterfield.

For more ways to help you find the perfect way to spoil mum, be sure to check out our  guides to 50 fantastic retailers and 50 brilliant bars and restaurants on social media. Whether it’s a cosy brunch, a heartfelt gift or some quality time in our beautiful local surroundings, let’s ensure our mums feel valued and cherished on this special day.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the remarkable mums in Chesterfield!

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£114,000 awarded to Chesterfield community groups

Over £114,000 worth of funding has now been awarded to community groups and local voluntary organisations in Chesterfield as part of a scheme designed help deliver grassroots projects that will improve life for local people.

A further £54,272 has now been awarded to 18 local groups via Chesterfield Borough Council’s Community Grants Funding scheme – and applications have now reopened, meaning even more groups could benefit from funding support.

The funding which has been awarded in the latest round of grants has gone to groups including:

  • Treasures Nursery
  • Edge Ministries
  • Poolsbrook Club Community Committee
  • WORTH (Women on the road to Recovery)
  • Redeemer King Church
  • Global Adventure
  • Derbyshire Voluntary Action (DVA)
  • Rother Active Youth (RAY) Club
  • Standing Tall Support
  • Brimington Little Stars
  • Chesterfield Football Club Community Trust (CFCCT)
  • Pleasley Canoe and Outdoor Activity Club
  • Kakou CIC
  • Monkwood Community Food Hub
  • Boythorpe Community Association
  • Stonegravels Parish Centre
  • Links CVS

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

The funding will support the local groups to deliver projects that will help to build resilient, healthy, and safe neighbourhoods, as well as initiatives which will help to tackle food poverty and social isolation.

It will also support projects that will help reduce the borough’s impact on the climate and wider environment by promoting greener choices – in support of the council’s target to be a carbon neutral borough by 2050.

Funding can also be used by community projects to develop volunteering opportunities, help people prepare to get in to work, and to support organisations to expand their reach into different areas of the borough.

It builds on the positive work being delivered in the community since almost £60,000 was shared with 16 community and voluntary organisations in 2023.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We’re really lucky to have so many community groups and voluntary organisations here in Chesterfield. They really do make a difference to the lives of local people, so I am pleased that we can use the funding we have received through UKSPF and CIL to provide them with these grants to help them achieve their goals.

“It’s been great to watch the progress made by projects that were supported through the first round of Community Grant funding, we look forward to seeing how the new allocation will help more local groups deliver vital projects that will help our communities continue to thrive.”

One of the latest groups to benefit from funding is Edge Ministries, who will be delivering an ‘open living room’ to provide advice and support for residents in Duckmanton. Deputy CEO, Karen Tullett, said: “This funding has helped us to deploy some of our team to Duckmanton on a Monday to run an open living room warm welcome space.

“We offer unlimited tea and coffee and good chat, along with toast and biscuits – all completely free of charge and with a friendly smile! We love hanging out with people who live in Ducky, work out how else we may be able to serve them and support the community- both practically and spiritually.”

Applications for the third round of funding are now open, allowing even more eligible organisations to apply for grant funding, with grants ranging from £500 to £6,000.  The deadline for applications is Friday 29 March 2024.

Full details on funding, eligibility criteria and details of how to apply can be found at: https://www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-ukspf/community-grants-fund.aspx

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

town hall drone shot

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