chesterfield news

Joint agents appointed for Chesterfield’s pivotal Elder Way scheme

Jomast has appointed FHP as official joint agents of Elder Way – a pivotal site in Chesterfield town centre which has been redeveloped by the leading regeneration specialist into leisure and retail units.

FHP is the dominant retail and leisure agent within the Midlands, with offices in Nottingham, Birmingham and Derby, and has won the EGi East Midlands Most Active Retail Agent award for the last 13 years.

FHP will now work alongside WSB Property to jointly market the Elder Way scheme nationally to potential occupiers.

There are currently a number of leasing opportunities available at the 21,761 sq ft scheme, from smaller E Class and Sui Generis Bar units of 1,420 sq. ft. upwards to larger units of up to 4,704 sq. ft.

Alan Pearson, Director and Head of the Retail and Leisure at FHP commented: “We are pleased to partner with WSB Property to introduce Elder Way to a wider audience across the East Midlands. The units are suitable for a variety of uses following the change of the use class order which opens this up to office and clinical use, alongside the traditional retail and leisure use.”

Jomast has transformed the former Co-op department store into a landmark mixed-use leisure scheme comprising seven street-level units and a 16,285 sq. ft. basement. The site is being marketed to food and drink, and gym operators as well as retailers.

Constructed in the 1930s, the site boasts a mock-Tudor frontage and is as renowned as the town’s crooked Spire church.

A Premier Inn hotel already occupies the upper two floors of the building where it has been successfully operating since 2019. Recently Premier Inn owner Whitbread reported that its first-quarter sales came in ahead of last year’s figures, supported by strong demand for travel and leisure and robust performance of its UK hotels.

Elder Way is one of the key developments within Chesterfield Borough Council’s £60 million Northern Gateway Scheme which includes and new multi-storey car park, completed in 2021 and an Enterprise Centre opened in 2022. The Enterprise Centre, which has 32 office suites is recording near 100% occupancy just 12 months after opening. Both the Enterprise Centre and Saltergate multi-storey are located within a two-minute walk of Elder Way.

Mark Hill, Commercial Property Director of Jomast added: “We’re committed to creating developments and regenerating properties that have a transformative effect on towns and cities and Elder Way embodies this. It is a pivotal site both in the town centre and the Northern Gateway scheme in Chesterfield.”

Find out more about the Chesterfield Elder Way development here. 

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

Chesterfield Elder Way

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Firms urged to inspire young people to explore careers in manufacturing, engineering, and construction

A campaign to inspire young people into manufacturing, engineering, and construction careers is set to return to Chesterfield this November.

Destination Chesterfield is calling upon local companies to get involved in the successful Made in Chesterfield scheme, which enables school pupils to get an up-close and personal look at what a career in these key sectors can offer.

The annual campaign, which will run during November and December 2023, is now in its ninth year. It aims to help reduce the skills gap in some of the town’s most valuable industries, to ensure local people and businesses can continue to thrive in the future.

Made in Chesterfield is organised by Destination Chesterfield, alongside Direct Education Business Partnership, and supported by Chesterfield College Group, Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire North Careers Hub, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd and NatWest.

Through the project, thousands of young people have had the chance to explore the wide range of rewarding careers available in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) sectors. Since the campaign’s inception in 2014, more than 3,500 young people from schools have spent time in the area’s manufacturing, engineering, and construction businesses.

Headline sponsor of the project, Chesterfield College Group has also seen an increase in the number of students getting involved in STEM-related subjects since the launch of the campaign.

Julie Richards, CEO of Chesterfield College Group and Destination Chesterfield Board Member, commented: “Having supported Made in Chesterfield consistently over the past few years I’ve seen the real impact the initiative has for the next generation engineering and construction workforce.

“As we position ourselves as a reliable conduit between student and employer to enable the opportunities and inspiration for successful future careers, supporting this initiative is something we feel passionate about.

“With work on our new cutting-edge Engineering, Manufacturing and Science Centre due to commence this year and our involvement with hugely impactful programmes such as the Staveley Construction Skills Hub, Made in Chesterfield further solidifies our commitment to ensuring the young people we serve have access to the very best opportunities in their chosen engineering and/or construction career.”

Ivan Fomin, Director at MSE Hiller and Destination Chesterfield Board Member said: “There is no doubt that we are experiencing a skills gap in manufacturing, caused by an ageing workforce. Therefore, it has never been more important to generate the future pipeline of talent to ensure our local manufacturing and engineering firms can continue to grow.

“Being able to offer these tours and interact with young people on a face-to-face basis provides them with an invaluable insight into the exciting potential and scope for growth that a career in STEM can offer.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth commented: “Made in Chesterfield is a fantastic programme that create an opportunity for businesses to interact with young people and help them to make informed choices about their future.

“We’re proud to support this programme because helping young people find the right path for them guarantees that they can have a great career in our borough but it also helps employers ensure that the future workforce is developing the skills that they will need.

“Together this will help improve the quality of life for residents whilst also creating a thriving local economy with opportunities for everyone.”

Clare Talati, CEO of Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP) added: “DEBP are pleased to be able to continue supporting the Made in Chesterfield initiative; enabling space for employers and young people to come together.

“Made in Chesterfield provides meaningful experiences for learners to increase their awareness of local opportunities, and for employers to showcase their businesses and meet potential future employees”.

To find out more about how your business can get involved with Made in Chesterfield, please visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/made/ or contact Direct Education Business Partnership at madeinchesterfieldvisits@debp.org.

The Destination Chesterfield Partnership has received £180,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It follows a successful funding bid by Chesterfield Borough Council, to secure £2.69 million worth of funding for local projects.

Made in Chesterfield - Students visit Aztec Oils

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Vicar Lane to showcase some of Chesterfield’s top independent retailers

Vicar Lane is set to shine a light on its independent retailers throughout July, encouraging shoppers to find out more about the range of goods and services they offer.

This year, the official Independents Day UK campaign to celebrate independently run businesses in high streets across the UK, is having its annual focus across a full weekend, on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd July.

It is because of this, that Vicar Lane will launch a month-long initiative throughout July to celebrate all of the centre’s independent retailers that trade on Steeplegate and introduce shoppers to all their wonderful wares.

In an effort to continue to connect their visitors with the independent stores and the entrepreneurs that run them – the centre will give them some love on the big screen in St James’ Square and across their social media channels.

Followers on the centre’s Instagram channel will be able to catch their ‘Tell us Tuesday’ series across the weeks to be in with a chance to win a £10 voucher.

More details on how to get involved and win can be found on the Vicar Lane website.

Vicar Lane has recently welcomed two new independent retailers to Steeplegate just in time for summer.

Nursery and children’s gifting retailer, The Little Ark, is having great success following its expansion from The Chesterfield Market Hall into Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, having tripled their sales within the first month of trading.

Lovers of all things vintage can now get the goods at YNOT? Vintage. Focused on sustainability and top brands at affordable prices, YNOT? Vintage doesn’t fall short on style from the 80’s and 90’s, which are sourced from all over the UK and beyond.

Sarah Bowler, Tenant and Community Liaison Manager said: “We always strive to support and recognise the positive impact our independent retailers have on our local community so we are really excited to extend the official Independents Day Weekend throughout the entire month of July.

“We are proud to be able to offer a complete range of retail, entertainment and food and beverage outlets that cater for all styles, needs and wishes”.

Throughout July there’ll be plenty going on at Vicar Lane as the centre hosts its Sumer Fest schedule of events. Find out more.

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

vicar lane shopping centre qoozies

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Research finds inclusive workplaces can help East Midlands businesses fill vacancies amid skills shortages

A growing number of East Midlands firms are creating inclusive workplace policies, new research has found – as they identified a range of business-critical benefits including higher productivity and lower staff turnover rates.

A study from East Midlands Chamber in partnership with emh group found the proportion of firms in Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire with a specific equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI)-related policy increased from 48% in 2022 to 54% this year. There was also a 3% drop to 37% of firms saying they had no such policy.

Some 56% of respondents said EDI formed part of strategic discussions at leadership or board level, with 15% believing this was to “a great extent” – although the same proportion said there was no focus on EDI at all – in figures similar to 12 months ago.

The biggest benefit attributed to having an engaged approach to EDI was its ability to create an inclusive working environment, which was cited by 65% of respondents.

Other popular reasons included the role it plays in supporting diversity of thought in decision-making (58%), staff recruitment and retention (52%), and better representing customers and clients (44%).

An average score of five out of 10 was given to the importance of EDI engagement to the success of an organisation. This was down from 5.6 a year earlier, while it also falls behind corporate social responsibility, which was awarded a score of 5.7 in a separate survey.

East Midlands Chamber director of policy and insight Chris Hobson chaired a roundtable with business leaders at the East Midlands People and Skills Summit recently to discuss the findings and recommendations for future business support tools.

He said: “EDI is about having a focus to create an inclusive workplace environment in which people feel they ‘belong’, in order to bring their best selves to work and support a business to realise its growth ambitions.

“Our research shows that while EDI has slipped slightly down the agenda – perhaps due to the persistent pressures on firms caused by a cost-of-doing-business crisis that has occupied leaders’ minds over the past 18 months – it remains an important consideration for many businesses in the East Midlands.

“Those engaged cite benefits such as supporting innovation, staff recruitment and retention, and better representing customers – all business-critical issues at a time when firms are looking for new ways to improve productivity and plug persistent skills gaps, with our research also showing 73% of firms that try to recruit will struggle to fill roles.

“While there are still barriers to adoption, including a lack of understanding among leadership teams and a fear about getting it wrong, we know that providing businesses with the support they need to implement inclusive policies can lead to greater adoption – and ultimately support business success.”

The research was carried out within East Midlands Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey – which gathers intelligence on how businesses are faring in areas such as sales, cashflow and recruitment – for Q1 2023, with 320 responses. Other key findings included:

  • There was a relatively even split in EDI policy adoption between services-based businesses (55%) and manufacturers (52%) – with a significant growth in engagement among manufacturers after 43% had a policy a year earlier
  • EDI adoption reduces the further down we descend in the business size spectrum – from 90% of large firms having a dedicated policy, this reduces to 68% of medium businesses, 57% of small companies and 37% of microbusinesses
  • Barriers to having an effective EDI policy included it not being viewed as a priority (cited by 42% of respondents), concerns about getting it wrong and causing inadvertent upset (30%), the time it takes to develop a policy (28%), ensuring buy-in from staff (24%), a lack of understanding among the leadership team (22%) and a perception it isn’t needed in their workplace (22%).

The research will be used to create a series of recommendations for further business support and policy activity around how Government can collaborate with employer representative bodies to advocate for EDI and support further engagement.

This was the second instalment of EDI research as part of a strategic partnership between East Midlands Chamber and emh group, an affordable housing, care and support provider based in Leicestershire.

Chan Kataria OBE, chief executive of emh group, added: “I’m encouraged that the second year of our strategic partnership research has seen a positive shift in some areas of engagement among members of the business community.

“This demonstrates a strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, as well as acknowledgement of its contribution to business success.

“A key aspect of this research was to explore the barriers to engagement on EDI. The results strongly indicate an appetite for support, and increased engagement on the broader spectrum of EDI.

“The findings also provide a platform to explore opportunities to share good practice and collaborate for better business outcomes.

“EDI is at the heart of what we at emh do, and I look forward to our continued work with the Chamber and its members to help deliver the actions that will make a real difference.

“I’m proud that the diversity of our communities is one of the biggest unique selling points of the East Midlands, and a key factor in its economic success.”

East Midlands Chamber - Chesterfield office

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Plastic Free Festival to return with plenty of entertainment and activities

A successful plastic-free festival is set to return for a one-day event in Chesterfield next month.

The free event will take place at New Square from 10am to 4pm on Sunday, July 16, offering craft workshops, food and drinks, live performances and children’s entertainment.

To keep up with the summer festival’s ethos of reducing waste, the tradition continues – attendees are encouraged to bring their own containers, bags, cutlery and cups if possible.

Greg Hewitt, organiser of the Plastic Free Festival, said: “We’re thrilled to be here for another year! We can’t wait to bring another day of brilliant entertainment, wonderful music and important education around single-use plastics.

“Come along, find great plastic-free products, browse the market and enjoy the show.”

The festival aims to champion local sustainable businesses and raise awareness of environmental issues while bringing together like-minded people for a day of fun and celebration.

Greg added: “It’s unfortunate that we had a bad start because of the pandemic, where we went through a lot between last-minute changes and awful weather, but we haven’t let that put a dampener on our spirits.

“I’m sure people will love what we have put together for them this year and appreciate all the hard work and dedication we have put into organising another fantastic event for all the community.”

This year’s event will see an increased selection of reusable cups on offer, from wine goblets to coffee cups, and a bar serving both alcoholic and soft drinks.

Alongside the jam-packed entertainment schedule, there will also be a workshop from entrepreneur Carmel Page, with tips and tricks on how to repair clothes and reduce textile waste.

Greg said: “The impact the festival has had on our community over the last few years is outstanding. Everyone has been so receptive and people have even started changing their ways when it comes to plastic by reducing their usage. It’s amazing to see the difference we are making and that people are taking the message on board.”

Visit the festival’s Facebook page to find out more: https://www.facebook.com/theplasticfreefestival

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

Chesterfield Plastic Free Festival

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Chesterfield property and construction firms announce new recruits, promotions and expansions

Chesterfield businesses are continuing to grow, either with new team members, internal promotions, and even international expansions.

Our latest roundup features three property and construction firms, BSP Consulting, Derbyshire Building Control Partnership, and Redbrik Estate Agents.

Property and Construction firms in the town continue to collaborate in driving forward investment, sustainability and skills within Chesterfield. Find out more about the work of the Property and Construction Group here.

BSP Consulting announces promotions for key team members

Pedro and Oliver promotion 3

East Midlands-based civil and structural engineering company BSP Consulting has promoted two members of its team.

Pedro Navarro has been made an Associate, while Oliver McElroy have been promoted to Principal Engineer.

BSP Director Tony Goddard said: “These promotions are in recognition of their tireless technical work within the civils team and their proven ability encouraging and developing younger staff, managing project finances and going the extra mile to nurture positive client relationships.

“On behalf of everyone at BSP Consulting, I’d like to congratulate Pedro and Oliver and wish them well in their new roles.”

Pedro has been with BSP since June 2017, while Oliver joined in November 2020.

One of the largest independent civil and structural engineering companies in the East Midlands, BSP is an award-winning firm that operates across the UK, offering civil engineering, structural engineering, transport engineering, geotechnical and environmental engineering. BSP works across all sectors including housing, student accommodation, commercial, industrial, health, education, senior living, retail and heritage.

Wealth of industry experience joins DBCP

Leonie King and Catherine Potiphar

The delivery of building control services across Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands has been further boosted with two new appointments at DBCP.

Experienced building control surveyor Leonie King has joined DBCP’s team of field-based building control experts, while former site manager Catherine Potiphar has been appointed as a trainee building control surveyor.

DBCP operates across Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands, working directly with eight local authorities to provide the best, most up-to-date building control service.

Leonie King praised the supportive team at DBCP saying: “Thanks to the experience and knowledge within the team I am learning something new every day. I am passionate about continued professional development particularly in the field of building control. Rules, regulations and techniques are changing all the time and it’s essential we keep abreast of these in order to deliver the best service. Quality and standards are at the heart of everything DBCP which absolutely aligns with my own approach to building control.”

Prior to joining DBCP Catherine was a site manager for 12 years. Her career change is giving Catherine the opportunity to build her skills, knowledge and qualifications through a Building Control Surveyor degree with the University of Wolverhampton which is being funded by DBCP.

She explained: “There are a huge number of transferable skills between my previous career and my new one in building control. It’s great to now be able to combine on site and off site working yet still remain in the industry I love. I am really enjoying the training and development I am undertaking – learning new skills, keeps the brain active!”

Delighted to welcome Leonie and Catherine to the team, David Pratt, DBCP Building Control Manager, commented: “It’s hugely important to us that our team of building control surveyors are not only qualified but also experienced; this enables us to provide the best service to across Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands and why demand for our services is increasing. We want to expand the team further but with the right people. The opportunity to develop a career both in building control and DBCP right now are very exciting.”

International estate agency services launched by Redbrik

Redbrik Estate Agents has announced the expansion of its sales service under a new brand –  Redbrik International.

The firm launched its international department with two fantastic developments, Ombria  Resort and Wyndham Grand, located in Portugal’s Algarve region.

Managing director, Mark Ross, said: “During the past ten years, Redbrik has grown from a single sales office to a multi-branch agency covering sales, lettings, land and new homes, and now international sales!

“We pride ourselves on the award-winning service our team provides, and I know they can’t wait to begin working with investors and homeowners from across the country on this pair of superb developments.

“The launch of Redbrik International, managed by our New Homes Team, is an exciting step for the business, and we look forward to bringing exclusive new investment opportunities to our clients.”

BSP Consulting, DBCP and Redbrik support 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 entertainment and activities announced for the Tapton Lock Festival 2023

Now in its eleventh year, organisers have confirmed that the popular Tapton Lock Festival will return this September with a host of new activities and entertainment for families to enjoy.

The free annual event is organised by Junction Arts and Derbyshire County Council, with the aim of bringing families and friends together to enjoy the outdoors, promoting better health and wellbeing.  During the weekend, the Chesterfield Canal comes alive with outdoor theatre, music and dance, arts and crafts workshops, stalls, ‘have a go’ canoes, boat rides and much more.

Family favourites such as the brilliant bubbleologist, circus skills and climbing wall will return but there’ll also be some new entertainment for 2023 including performances and workshops from Bollywood dancers, African drummers, and the Babbling Vagabonds Magical Market Stall!

Visitors will also be able to try their hand at Lego printing, and greenwood crafts or get green-fingered in a seed workshop.

Junction Arts Coordinator Jane Wells said: “Tapton Lock Festival brings together the arts and the outdoors to create an event that is inclusive and accessible to all.  It encourages communities to come together and enjoy the beautiful canal walkways that are on our doorstep.  Working with Derbyshire Countryside Services, each year we aim to bring back the popular activities but also introduce something new…  This year we’re excited to have new performers and activities that will bring even more colour and vibrancy to the festival.

“At Junction Arts, our aim is to build stronger communities through the arts and The Tapton Lock Festival is a great example of this! The festival raises awareness of the area along the Chesterfield Canal and the network of footpaths and cycleways, encouraging people to spend more time in nature with family and friends becoming healthier and happier.”

As part of the festival, Junction Arts will also be doing community outreach with Brimmington Junior School in July.  Pupils will enjoy a trip to the canal to learn all about the flora and fauna of the canal with a countryside ranger.  In September they will also get to work with a local artist to create a piece of artwork that will be displayed at this year’s festival and complete their Arts Award Discover.

For further community engagement, Junction Arts will also commission an ‘artist in residence’ at Chesterfield Football Club to work with a small group of young people who attend Thr1ve, a social prescribing group for young people, part of the Club’s Spireites Trust.

Tapton Lock Festival is a free event that takes place around the Tapton Lock Visitor Centre on the 9th and 10th of September from 11:00 am until 4.00 pm daily.

For more information about how you can get involved, sponsorship and stall opportunities contact jane@junctionarts.org or hannah@junctionarts.org

Find out about the packed schedule of summer events and activities taking place across Chesterfield throughout the 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.

Tapton Lock 2022_Junction Arts_ Photo Credit Nathan Hamer

Image supplied by Nathan Hamer

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New sightseeing bus route will allow visitors to take in stunning views of the Peak District

A new open-top bus tour is being launched in the Peak District, allowing visitors to take in some of the area’s stunning destinations.

Bus operator Stagecoach has announced the new route, which is set to launch from the 1st July 2023.

The hop on, hop off bus service will take passengers on a loop around the White Peak with stops in prime locations including Chatsworth, Bakewell and Hassop station for visitors to the Monsal Trail.

People will be able to take in the picturesque views of the national park’s green hills, gritstone edges and heather-coated moorlands on a loop through several Peak District hotspots.

From Chesterfield, visitors will be able to catch the 170 bus service from the town, and hop onto the the Peak Sightseer at Baslow Nether End.

A Peak Sightseer bus will also depart from from Chesterfield Railway Station at 09:10 each day, stopping at Cavendish Street and New Beetwell Street, with the last bus back to Chesterfield leaving Chatsworth House at 18:19.

Download the full Peak Sightseer timetable here.

Matt Kitchin, Managing Director for Stagecoach Yorkshire said: “With some of the most dramatic scenery in the UK, the Peak District is an ideal location for an open top bus experience.”

“The new service allows customers to leave their cars at home, reducing pressure on the local environment while providing a fun, accessible and affordable day out in the countryside”.

The service is part-funded by Derbyshire County Council with government-backed BSIP funding following high demand from the public for better bus connections through the Peak District.

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Assets and Transport, Councillor Charlotte Cupit said: “What better way to see some of Derbyshire’s wonderful scenery and most popular tourist destinations could there be than an open top bus?

“This is going to be a brilliant service to get people out and about without needing to use their car or worry about car parking and we are delighted to be working in partnership with Stagecoach on this innovative project.

“The funding we have had from the Government is giving us the opportunity to support new services like these – please give it a try and visit some of our fantastic Peak District attractions this summer.”

Roads Minister, Richard Holden said: “People up and down the country deserve a modern, reliable, and affordable public transport system. That is why we have provided Derbyshire County Council with £47 million to boost its bus services.

“Supporting Stagecoach in launching a new open top bus tour is great for local residents and tourists, who will now enjoy an even better way to take in some of the most breath-taking views the Peak District has to offer.”

Tickets are available to buy on the bus with an adult day ticket costing just £6.

Group tickets are also available for £15 with a £5 discount on offer to Chatsworth visitors with a ticket to the house.

For more information visit www.stagecoachbus.com or follow @stagecoachyrks on Twitter.

Are you visiting the Peak District and Derbyshire this summer? Find out more about the wide range of events and activities taking place in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

Chatsworth House

Chatsworth House

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Superior Wellness listed among UK’s fastest-growing firms for 2nd year running

Chesterfield’s Superior Wellness ranks 30th on the FEBE For Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs Growth 100: an annual list that reveals the UK’s fastest-growing privately owned businesses.

Businesses must have sales between £3m and £200m, trading for at least three years and have turned an operating profit in the latest financial year to make it into the top 100.

The Growth 100 celebrates British business at its best – highlighting founders that are driving their companies to deliver significant sales, revenue and profit.

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. This year marks the 2nd in succession that the company has been listed on the FEBE Growth 100 list.

The firm continues to innovate and has recently launched new brands Chill Tubs and Hekla Saunas, which are proving a popular addition to its portfolio of products.

The company’s Chill Tubs brand was recently showcased on ITV’s This Morning, with presenter Matthew Wright taking a plunge in the water, which was cooled to 8.3 degrees.

To be on the list businesses must be UK registered, independent and unquoted, meeting the following criteria:

  • Sales between £3m and £200m
  • Trading for at least three years
  • An operating profit in the latest financial year
  • Founder(s) must still be involved

The Growth 100 annual list shines a light on the finest and fastest-growing privately owned businesses in the country, where the founder or founders are still involved. The Growth 100 is run by FEBE, the club built for entrepreneurs, by entrepreneurs.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director, said: “We were so proud when we heard the news that Superior Wellness had made it onto Growth 100 list. We ranked 30th in Britain for the fastest-growing companies privately owned businesses.

“This is such an incredible achievement for us as a company and a real accolade to the team and their hard work.

“I would like to extend my thanks to all the Superior Wellness team and our partner network for making this possible.”

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

superior wellness exterior

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Chesterfield Champions take part in fundraising and voluntary efforts

Businesses in our town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have been getting out in the local area, supporting charities and community organisations.

Companies continue to support worthy causes in Chesterfield and beyond, through volunteering or fundraising. Find out more in our latest roundup below.

Mortgage 1st raises more than £2,500 for Bluebell Wood with charity football tournament

Mortgage 1st Bluebell Wood fundraising

Mortgage 1st, one of the largest mortgage brokerages in Derbyshire, has raised £2,589 for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, by hosting a charity football tournament with its key business partners across the intermediary industry.

Hosted at Goals in Sheffield, the tournament was won by Enable, who ran out as eventual winners in a closely fought final with Meadowhall.

The runners up and winners were presented their medals by friends of the business and footballing legends Paul Wilkinson (Ex-Middlesbrough, Everton, Barnsley) & Iain Dowie (Ex-Crystal Palace, Southampton, West Ham) with the latter playing in the tournament.

Paul Lewis, Head of growth, Mortgage 1st, commented: “We’d like to thank all our business partners and industry friends for their incredible support, having 20 teams on the day was remarkable. Congratulations to Enable on their well-deserved victory and to all the teams for making the journey to the Steel City to play their part in a wonderful day.

“At Mortgage 1st we will always utilise our platform to make a difference where we can, a lot of charities are struggling as the cost of living continues to increase. Bluebell Wood is a charity very close to our hearts and it gave us great pleasure to put this event on to raise awareness and much needed funds for them. Plans are already in place for next year’s tournament and we will stop at nothing to make it even bigger and better in 2024.”

Workpays team Volunteers at Fareshare Midlands

Workpays at Fareshare

Team members at Chesterfield training provider Workpays have volunteered at Fareshare Midlands as part of this year’s National Volunteer Week.

The team was involved in the heart of Fareshare’s food re-distribution, helping to improve the daily lives of people facing food poverty. Activities included storing incoming food, assisting the drivers, and packing food orders ready for the community.

Workpays’ values include acting as one team and leading with kindness, hence, giving back to the community is very important.

Jeremy Carter, Warehouse Co-ordinator at Fareshare, said: “At the moment, there is a lack of volunteers within the community, so Workpays have helped us out a lot today.

“All of the volunteers got stuck in and are contributing to families who may have a low income or are suffering from food poverty. We have so many decent charities that take part, including rehab centers and hostels, and getting orders out to them before the food expires is crucial.

“The more volunteers we have, the quicker food gets to people who need it the most.”

Alex Glasner, Managing Director of Workpays, said: “I’m incredibly proud of our team volunteering at Fareshare Midlands. Food poverty is a huge social issue and we believe that supporting our communities is key to who we are as a company.”

“At Workpays, we work day in, day out to make sure everyone has the opportunity to get a good education and the career they want.”

CMP Legal hosts pub quiz to raise vital funds for Ashgate Hospice

CMP Legal Team

Chesterfield-based CMP Legal held a Charity Pub Quiz at The Midpoint Bar in Chesterfield on 8th June 2023 to raise vital funds for Ashgate Hospice.

Over 50 people attended the event which included banks, accountants and clients. The evening included a Charity Pub Quiz followed by a Charity Raffle, all in aid of Ashgate Hospice.

The event was a huge success and CMP Legal raised £945.47 to support Ashgate Hospice.

Jason Skelton, Co-Founder of CMP Legal said: “Ashgate Hospice are such a beloved charity, and we are delighted to have played a small part in raising much needed funds towards the incredible end of life care and support they provide to the local community.”

CMP Legal was established at the end of the pandemic in 2021. Over the past 2 years, the company has gone from strength to strength and has expanded its team from 4 to 9 members.

BHP Chartered Accountants raises more than £37,000 for UK charities

Chesterfield waterside bhp

BHP offices at Chesterfield Waterside. Image supplied by Derbyshire Economic Partnership

Chesterfield accountancy firm, BHP has raised its highest ever charity total over the last year, with £37,000 donated to good causes across the country.

Find out more in the company’s post on Linkedin:

Mortgage 1st, Workpays, CMP Legal and BHP support 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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Derbyshire tourism attractions win prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence

Five tourism businesses from across the Peak District and Derbyshire are celebrating success after winning coveted accolades – including two prestigious Gold awards – at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023.

The finalists competed against hundreds of tourism businesses from across the country to reach the awards ceremony which was hosted by TV presenter Alex Polizzi at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter on Wednesday 7 June.

Top spots were taken by the Blind Bull at Little Hucklow near Buxton, who won the Gold Pub of the Year award, and Peak District-based outdoor activity provider Pure Outdoor, winners of the Gold Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award.

National recognition was also received by Great British Car Journey in Ambergate, who won the Bronze New Tourism Business of the Year award; Wildhive Callow Hall near Ashbourne, winners of the Bronze Small Hotel of the Year award; and myGuidedWalks, who won the Bronze Experience of the Year award for their Peak District Walking Experience.

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence champion quality, innovation and best practice across the tourism industry, recognising businesses and individuals who raise the bar of England’s tourism offer.

This year’s awards aligned with 16 local competitions from across England, including the 2023 Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards organised by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence represent the highest accolades in English tourism and so we’re incredibly proud that the Peak District and Derbyshire has received national recognition with not one but five prestigious awards.

“These awards are a timely reminder of the value and quality of our world-class tourism offer, and of the commitment and dedication of the talented businesses and individuals who work so hard to provide visitors with experiences to remember.

“Winning at an aligned local competition is the only way to qualify for these national awards, so we encourage businesses to look out for applications opening for the 2024 awards in the coming weeks.”

Raab Dykstra-McCarthy, Owner and Manager of The Blind Bull, Gold winners in the Pub of the Year category, said: “We are over the moon to win Gold in the Pub of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. For a small, independently owned pub in a tiny village in the heart of the glorious Peak District, to be recognised nationally, after being open for less than three years, is just such an incredible feeling and rather unbelievable. Full credit goes to our wonderful team who really are the heart and soul of The Blind Bull. Finally, a huge thank you to our customers for continuing to support us!”

Guy Wilson, Founder of Pure Outdoor, Gold winners in the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism category, said: “We’re so pleased to receive the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Gold Award at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. We’re passionate about being a better business and look to continue developing in this area over the coming years. I’d like to thank all staff involved in growing our business not just for profit, but for people and the planet too.”

Richard Usher, Founder and CEO of Great British Car Journey, Bronze winners in the New Tourism Business of the Year category, said: “What a phenomenal journey the last two years have been for Great British Car Journey. To be recognised in the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence has just blown us all away. We knew we had something special when we opened the museum in May 2021, but to have it confirmed is wonderful.
“It’s onwards and upwards for Great British Car Journey. We have many exciting plans in the pipeline which will ensure we continue to stand out in both the classic car and visitor attraction market.”

Paul Smith, Founder and Guide at myGuidedWalks, Bronze winners in the Experience of the Year category, said: “MyGuidedWalks are thrilled to have won Bronze for Experience of the Year at the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. This is a huge honour for us, and we are so grateful to our customers, family, friends and other Peak District and Derbyshire businesses for their support. A big special thanks also to the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire team for their support and training over the last 5 years.
“At myGuidedWalks, we are committed to providing unforgettable walking and nature based experiences in the Peak District National Park for our guests, and we will continue to work hard to make www.myGuidedWalks.co.uk the best it can be.”

Ed Burrows D.L., Co-Founder of Wildhive Callow Hall, Bronze winners in the Small Hotel of the Year category, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have received an award for Wildhive Callow Hall at this year’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. The team are so proud to receive such recognition from the panel of judges as one of the top hotels in the country. Everyone involved with Wildhive has worked so hard to open the hotel and ensure amazing experiences for our guests and now as we approach our two year anniversary this September, we have lots to celebrate!”

Great British Car Journey - Bronze Winners in the New Tourism Business of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023.

Great British Car Journey – Bronze Winners in the New Tourism Business of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023. Image by VisitBritain, Daniela Luquini

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