chesterfield news

University of Derby recognised for ‘world leading’ research

The University of Derby is delivering world-leading and internationally excellent research in Education, according to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 results announced today.

In total, the University submitted 27 Case Studies demonstrating how research has impacted business and society across its core academic themes and subjects.

Notable achievements for the University across other subject areas include:

  • Computer Science and Informatics (74%), Social Work and Social Policy (71%), Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences (69%), Art and Design (66%) and Communication, Culture and Media Studies (58%) is ‘world-leading’ and ‘internationally excellent’ in terms of originality, significance and rigour.
  • 100% of the University’s research impact and significance in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences is classified as 4* (outstanding) and 3* (very considerable). 83% in Education is classified as 4* (outstanding) and 3* (very considerable).
  • A 3* research environment – assessed in terms of vitality, sustainability, and how this enables research – for areas including Allied Health Professionals, Business and Management Studies, Social Work and Social Policy, Education, Art and Design and Communication and Cultural Studies.

Speaking about the University’s results, Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “Since the last REF in 2014, our researchers have continued to generate distinctive, world-leading, and impactful research as part of our ongoing drive to becoming a more research-focused institution.

“These REF 2021 results mark a step change for the University of Derby, reflecting our commitment to delivering excellence in research at an international level, while positively impacting our high-quality teaching and learning. I would like to celebrate our staff, students and partners for the effort, expertise and collaboration that has gone into our submission.”

Professor Warren Manning, Provost Innovation and Research the University of Derby, added: “Working collaboratively with businesses and organisations in Derby, Derbyshire and the region to deliver applied research and knowledge exchange is an area of strength for us. Our REF submission further demonstrates how our innovation and research expertise aligns to our partners’ needs and supports them to tackle challenges and make a positive impact regionally and globally.”

The University has demonstrated positive impact on the economy, society or culture through its submissions.

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

University of Derby’s St. Helena Campus in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

Stephenson Memorial Hall refurbishment receives further funding boost    

An ambitious project to refurbish Chesterfield’s historic Stephenson Memorial Hall – which is home to the Pomegranate Theatre and Chesterfield Museum – has been boosted by £695,000 from Arts Council England’s Capital Investment Programme.

The funding has been secured by Chesterfield Borough Council and will be used to install a ventilation system in the Pomegranate Theatre auditorium and create a new Changing Places toilet. This funding will complement the Government’s Levelling Up Funding and investment from the council which aims to create a modern cultural attraction in the heart of the town centre.

Under the plans the refurbished Stephenson Memorial Hall will bring together an extended Pomegranate Theatre, a reconfigured and modern museum, alongside new gallery space, a café bar, education and community facilities. The £17.5 million project will also protect the Grade II listed building and ensure that it remains part of the borough’s heritage for many more generations to come.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “It’s fantastic news that we’ve received more support for our multi-million-pound refurbishment of the Stephenson Memorial Hall. This funding will help ensure we realise our ambitions of creating an accessible cultural experience, allowing more of our residents and visitors to access this building to enjoy performances and learn about our heritage.”

Peter Knott, Midlands Area Director of Arts Council England, said: “Our Capital Grants programme provides organisations with vital funding to ensure they have the right buildings and equipment to help them become more sustainable and innovative places, as they deliver exciting and creative work to the public.

“We’re pleased to be investing in seven projects in the East Midlands – from replacing well-worn seats in auditoriums and purchasing the latest digital technology to installing ecologically friendlier lighting and making buildings more cost-effective.  Funded work includes updating access facilities designed to ensure a more welcoming experience for visitors.”

As part of these 2021-22 and 2022-23 grants, over £22.7 million has been awarded to 66 cultural organisations across the country. The Capital Investment Programme aims to help cultural organisations across the country transform their buildings and equipment so they can operate safely post-pandemic, improve access, seize technological opportunities, and reduce environmental impact. From Barrow-in-Furness to The Isles of Scilly, the organisations receiving funding share a vision to build a fit for the future cultural sector, which all members of their communities can access.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

New menswear retailer set to open in prominent Chesterfield town centre store

A retailer selling a range of clothes for men is moving into a prominent Chesterfield Town Centre location, adding to the plethora of new retailers in the town.

WiseGuys menswear will be opening in the former Greenwoods store on Packers Row, offering a broad choice of clothing, including casual shirts, knitwear, suits and shoes.

Mike Willis, who used to work for Greenwoods before launching his own clothing business, says he is pleased to be bringing a new store to the town: “I’ve always had Chesterfield in mind as the place where I wanted to open my next store, as it fits with the ‘market town’ profile of my business.

“I opened my first store in Sleaford in 2013, followed by Newark, Melton Mowbray and Boston, so I am delighted that the opportunity has arisen to continue growing the business and offering our products to a wider audience.

“We’re really pleased to be welcoming customers from Chesterfield and beyond, and cannot wait to be part of the evolution of the local high street. We’d love to see as many new faces in our store as possible, so please pop in and say hello.”

The store plans to cater for a broad range of sizes, with no skinny fits on offer. Casual shirts range from sizes small to 4XL, while shoe brands are sold in sizes 6-12. Shoes up to size 15 can be sold to order.

Suits are on sale ranging from sizes 34-60 chest. A number of recognised brands will be stocked at WiseGuys, including Dude Shoes, Lambretta Brogues, Ben Sherman Casuals, Lizard King Shirts, Swole Panda socks and underwear, Redpoint Chinos and casual coats, Sunwill jeans and much more.

The store is also recruiting for new staff, with Mike commenting: “I’m looking for a manager and part-time staff to work at the store, ensuring our customers enjoy the best possible visit to WiseGuys. Anyone wishing to apply or find out more, please email wiseguys2014@gmail.com FAO: Mr Mike Willis, Director.”

To find out more about WiseGuys menswear, head over to the website: www.wiseguysmenswear.co.uk

Chesterfield’s high street is home to an array of independent and chain retailers. To find out more about shopping in the town, head over to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/

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

Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield plans set to be considered

A multi-million pound project to revitalise Chesterfield town centre – helping the borough thrive for generations to come – is set to be considered by Chesterfield Borough Council.

The £10.28m Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield scheme aims to transform the look, feel and flow of the town centre – creating a contemporary market town that has better connections between key public spaces, and a more attractive physical environment.

It includes plans for significant improvements to Chesterfield’s historic market grounds, along with proposals that will help maximise the potential of the iconic Crooked Spire as a key attraction for visitors, while also re-imagining town centre spaces for a range of flexible uses including markets, festivals, events, cultural celebrations and community gatherings.

Together with the £17m refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall – which received planning permission in March 2022 – the project is being brought forward thanks to almost £20m which the council secured from the Government’s levelling up fund at the end of last year.

The latest designs for the scheme will be considered by the council’s Cabinet on 17 May and, if approved, the proposals will be subject to a consultation period running from 24 May to 8 July 2022 before a final Master Plan is developed.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Chesterfield has been a flourishing market town for hundreds of years, but like places everywhere, we must address the challenges that the rise in online shopping presents to the future sustainability of our town centre.

“Our town has so much to offer, and we want to harness and build on this to create a town centre that remains vibrant, and relevant in today’s world.

“This project, together with the scheme to refurbish our historic Pomegranate Theatre and Chesterfield Museum, will transform the experience for those visiting the town centre, and help sustain the economic future for the wider borough.”

Levelling up funding will be used to extend the council’s planned regeneration of the market grounds, with extra investment now centred on key public spaces and the connections between them – including Burlington Street, Corporation Street, Rykneld Square, Spire Walk, Market Square and New Square.

It is proposed that new paving, seating, lighting, and street furniture will combine with more greenery, to create better-looking and better-connected spaces which people can enjoy and socialise in.

The Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project will complement work to regenerate the Northern Gateway and – at the other side of town – will connect with plans to transform the area around Chesterfield Station.

Key areas of focus are:

  • Corporation Street – a tree-lined boulevard with improved paving and lighting will transform this key gateway to the town centre and provide a welcoming environment for visitors to the refurbished theatre and museum.
  • Spire Walk – the council will work in partnership with the Church of St Mary and All Saints to create a more welcoming and attractive space in which to enjoy our iconic Crooked Spire.
  • Rykneld Square – the proposals seek to make better use of this open public space – providing a better connection with the Crooked Spire, improving the feel and flow of this area.
  • Burlington Street – proposed upgrades to paving, planting and lighting will create a more attractive main route – better connecting the Market Place and High Street through to Rykneld Square and Spire Walk.
  • New Square and Market Place – a multi-million pound investment will revitalise Chesterfield’s historic market. Our plans will create a modern, vibrant town centre experience with additional space alongside our traditional markets to host outdoor events and speciality markets. The council is working with local traders to develop a revised market stall and layout design for the main market, and to consider how New Square could be used to complement the town centre offer in future.
  • Packers Row – under existing plans, in place before the successful bid for levelling up funding, this area will also undergo improvement, following the completion of similar public realm works at the nearby Elder Way. Plans include improved lighting and paving, with an overhead light canopy to add character. Work here is set to start in spring 2022.

Councillor Sarvent added: “We have been successful in pulling in millions of pounds of extra funding into our borough over the last 18 months, which is fantastic news for local people. It will complement the significant investments that we and our partners are already making and puts Chesterfield town centre in a strong position for the future.

“We want Chesterfield to continue to be the go-to place and we’re confident that, taken together, the widespread improvements will achieve this by creating a contemporary market town that builds on our proud history and heritage.”

The work will be carried out in phases from spring 2022 and is due for completion in 2025.

Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

‘Leaving the door open’ – Chesterfield’s Property & Construction forum continues to highlight sustainability

Jillian Mitchell, Vice Chair of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group and Director of Lomas and Mitchell Architects has penned this month’s blog on how the group is coming together to highlight the importance of sustainability across the town.

I was asked recently to deliver a 15-minute talk on ‘how to make your home more sustainable’.  It’s a pretty tall order, given the magnitude of the subject.  The first question was ‘how on earth do I cover the subject in only 15 minutes?’  Definition of the word ‘sustainable’ is wide-ranging, covering anything from saving the planet to reducing energy bills, and everything in between.

It can be overwhelming and we often feel powerless to think that anything we do can make a difference, so it is tempting to do nothing.  It doesn’t help that there is a bewildering array of measures and targets out there, quoted in impenetrable units which are hard to put into any sort of context.  Take the example of your fridge.  If you regularly leave the door of the fridge open whilst trying to decide what to make for dinner, for example, you can be wasting 50 – 120kWh/yr.  These numbers don’t mean a lot on their own, but if you understand that 50kWh/yr could run your dishwasher twenty times or 100kWh/yr the washing machine for fifty cycles, the scale and context become much more tangible.

At the heart of the issue, however, is a simple message – we must all do something to contribute to reducing our energy consumption and our dependence upon finite planet resources.  It really doesn’t matter which sector you work in – everyone can do something to make a difference.  The current energy crisis has brought all these themes into sharp focus, and now is the time to capitalise on the opportunities to look at our consumption and behaviours and commit to making a difference.

The Construction and Property Forum have identified key themes, one of which is ‘Sustainability and Quality’, because we want to highlight the need for more ambitious targets across the region.  The challenge is to shift from historical drivers, such as shareholders and regulations, and move towards the over-arching target of net-zero carbon by 2050 whilst still demonstrating profitability and compliance.  The shift needed is seismic and not to be underestimated – but we all have to do something, and we need to do it now.

The Forum seeks to support and challenge our local authorities as they strive towards these ambitious goals whilst providing exemplars of best practice for our colleagues in the sector to learn from and share.  We are keen to explore who is working on these themes in our area and welcome input from colleagues across the sector.  You can get in touch by emailing PropertyGroup@chesterfield.co.uk

In the meantime, maybe it’s time to not leave the fridge door open.

Jillian Mitchell is a Chartered Architect and Director at Lomas and Mitchell Architects.  Jillian is a member of the steering group of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group and heads up the themes of  Sustainability and Quality.

Find out more at: www.lomasandmitchell.co.uk

Chesterfield Property and Construction Group

 

Posted in Blog, Business, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Chesterfield residents encouraged to support local retailers over the Jubilee bank holiday

Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee is only a few weeks away and residents and visitors are being encouraged to support our local retailers during the bank holiday weekend.

There are a number of events taking place across Chesterfield to help mark this historic milestone, as well as the market place and Market Hall being adorned in special Jubilee decorations, and the Market Hall Café offering a special Jubilee themed menu.

Local businesses are also being asked to consider taking part in the Best Dressed Window Competition over the bank holiday weekend, that will be judged by the new Mayor of Chesterfield, Councillor Tony Rogers.

If you are a business owner and would like to take part, you can use any materials you like to dress the window, but it has to have a Jubilee theme. Judging will take place on Friday 3 June 2022.

To take part or to register your interest in the competition as a business owner, please contact Rebecca.Bland@chesterfield.gov.uk.

Chesterfield Borough Council is continuing to work with Destination Chesterfield to celebrate everything that is great about our borough, through the Love Chesterfield campaign.

The campaign is centred around our town centre, high streets and shopping areas and aims to encourage everyone to discover or rediscover the great shopping, hospitality and leisure experiences we have on our doorstep.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations are going to be a fantastic way to not only mark the Queen being the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee after 70 years of service, but it is also a great opportunity for residents and visitors to come into the town centre to enjoy some of the events on offer, check out the Jubilee decorations, do some shopping and spend time in each other’s company.

“Following the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s never been more important for us each to do our bit to help support local businesses. I think there is going to be a great atmosphere in the town centre on the bank holiday, and we are encouraging as many retailers as possible to take part in our best dressed window competition to help us to celebrate this fantastic occasion.”

The council is also calling on residents and visitors to join in with the celebrations and has put together a programme of activities that people of all ages will be able to enjoy, including a tea dance, a fun-fair, and a royal exhibition. Residents and visitors can keep up to date with all of the events and activities planned over the Jubilee weekend by visiting https://www.chesterfield.gov.uk/your-council/queens-platinum-jubilee

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

Charity’s transport service for Chesterfield cancer patients celebrates one year since launch

Weston Park Cancer Charity and several partners have celebrated a year since the launch of a Chesterfield transport service, which provides vital free travel for people living in Chesterfield who need cancer treatment at Sheffield hospitals.

In the year since the service launched, it has covered more than 14,000 miles, making more than 500 round trips to provide essential access to treatment – which may otherwise have been difficult for people in need of treatment and care which could change or save their lives.

A team of volunteer drivers has dedicated more than 4,000 volunteer hours over the last 12 months, with patients saving more than £33,000 on taxi fares and transport costs collectively, based on a £30 taxi fare each way between Chesterfield and Weston Park.

Most importantly, though, the transport aims to relieve the stresses and strains which travel to and from Weston Park can bring.

Figures suggest that around 20 per cent of patients at Weston Park Cancer Centre reside from Chesterfield, the equivalent of more than 3,000 patients at any one time and more than 1,300 each year.

The transport service launch in 2021 followed Weston Park Cancer Charity’s takeover of Chesterfield cancer charity, Nenna Kind, in 2020. It marked a ’major step forward’ for Weston Park Cancer Charity in its ‘commitment to care in every sense’ for cancer patients and their families in Chesterfield.

Graham, from Chesterfield, who travelled on the service 23 times during his treatment for prostate cancer, said: “What helps is that the drivers all have so many stories and anecdotes and some have been in similar situations.

“You got back onto the bus to come home and sometimes you can have banter on the way back – but the drivers always seem to know whether you want to talk or not. Some days I came on and I don’t think any of the drivers would have minded if I’d have had a nap – it was wonderful.

“It got to the point that the bus journey was the best part of going to the hospital because you knew you were going to be talking and having a laugh all the way. The drivers become your friends.”

Chris, who lives in Matlock also travelled on the Weston Park bus for 21 days during his radiotherapy treatment, said: “I’d never been to Weston Park before my treatment started, I didn’t understand the layout of the place or the parking, and I thought ‘I’m going to be really wound up if I drive there’.

“And then one of the Macmillan nurses mentioned to me about this service, I got in touch with Matt (Hadley, Weston Park Cancer Charity’s Transport Manager), he talked me through it all. And I’ve got to say the service is absolutely unbelievable. They’ve thought of everything.

“You feel at ease the drivers completely take your mind off everything – they’re so friendly, they’re so knowledgeable and they’re always happy to have a chat.”

The success and importance of the charity’s Chesterfield transport, which is operated in partnership with Community Chesterfield, Derbyshire Voluntary Action, the University of Derby, Chesterfield Royal Hospital and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, led to the launch of its Barnsley transport service in December 2021.

Emma Clarke, Weston Park Cancer Charity CEO, who oversaw the launch of the Chesterfield service along with Transport Manager, Matt Hadley, said: “We’re so thrilled to see and hear the impact which our transport has had since it launched a year ago in Chesterfield.

“We never want transport to prevent anyone accessing the treatment which could change, or even save, their life. That’s why our free, safe transport runs each day from St Helena Campus in Chesterfield, and Oakwell Stadium in Barnsley respectively.

“If you or anyone you know could benefit from our free transport, please don’t hesitate to get in touch as we are here to support you as we face cancer together – together at every step.”

Weston Park Cancer Charity’s transport service operates twice daily at 9.30am and 1.30pm between the University of Derby’s St Helena Campus in Chesterfield, and Sheffield hospitals.

For more information on Weston Park Cancer Charity’s transport services from Barnsley and Chesterfield, or to book a seat, call 0114 553 3330 or email transport@wpcancercharity.org.uk.

Derbyshire Voluntary Action, Community Chesterfield, University of Derby and Chesterfield Royal Hospital 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, Home, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

BRM Solicitors appoints New Corporate Director

Regional law firm BRM solicitors are strengthening its corporate and commercial team with an internal promotion.

Trevor Bird has advised a multitude of businesses across the region, specialising in corporate finance, fundraising M&A, joint ventures, and corporate governance. Trevor is also an expert in start-up fundraising, venture capital, and real estate in the care sector.

Trevor said: “I am delighted to be promoted to Director at BRM, the promotion is the result of years of hard work, and I am looking forward to continuing my work with existing and future clients. I am especially looking forward to driving forward the corporate offering in the region. Especially with the fantastic opportunities with tech start-ups across the region.”

Head of Corporate Sarah Rowland said: “Trevor is already a key member of the team and will be an integral part of the firm’s future growth in the region. Trevor’s strong track record and breadth and depth of experience complement our growing client base.

Trevor’s well-deserved promotion is aligned with BRMs policy to recognise and reward talent and commitment and we wish him continued success with the firm.”

BRM Solicitors is one of the leading providers of commercial and private client legal services in the area. Many of the firm’s partners and staff were born in Chesterfield or nearby. Others were attracted to the area by the quality of its working environment and its proximity to areas of outstanding natural beauty.

The team believes its success and appeal is largely due to its mix of staff with city law firm experience and lifelong Chesterfield residents and its practice ethos is to deliver a city-style service to clients without forgetting our market town location and economy.

It is for these reasons that BRM is known nationally and continues to have a diverse client base ranging from local individuals to well known multinational businesses.

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, UncategorisedTagged in , , ,

Chesterfield company celebrates double win in Queen’s Award for Enterprise

A Chesterfield company has celebrated a double award win in the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

Imagesound Group was founded in 1998 and has become a national leader for enhancing customer experience, using audio and visual channels within client venues.

From hotels and leisure through to retail and hospitality, Imagesound delivers to over 60,000 locations across 152 countries and 9 overseas Territories from their base in Derbyshire.

Imagesound has grown exponentially over the last 10 years, employing 128 staff at the Chesterfield HQ and a further 60 worldwide to service global offices in Los Angeles, Miami, Dubai, London, Hong Kong and Shanghai, and regional consultants in Tokyo, Bangkok, Bali, Delhi, Casablanca, Vancouver, New York and Sydney.

Working with global brands such as McDonalds, H&M, Adidas, national icons B&Q, Co‐op and Next, and independent hotels, businesses, and venues, Imagesound has been at the forefront of technology innovations to ensure expertly curated music and video content is of the highest quality and imaging can be deployed in each location.

Following an introductory event hosted by the Lord Lieutenant and Deputies in July 2021, designed to encourage more Derbyshire based companies to enter these prestigious awards, Imagesound worked with local award writing agency Pure Awards to prepare and submit the nominations to both the Innovation and International Trade categories.

Over the course of seven weeks, investing over 50hours work in each application, the nominations were submitted in September, followed by a six-month wait to find out the results.

Managing Director Phil Burroughes said, “These awards represent the best in British business today and we are extremely honoured that the Imagesound Group has been recognised in 2022 for our efforts and achievements.

“As a business that has grown substantially over the last few years it’s nice to receive recognition for our software that helps underpin our service and help deliver our international coverage so effectively.

“While we know it’s rare to win on our first attempt, it’s a reflection of the hard work that helped us achieve this. Our efforts have certainly paid off with the double win, and we are looking forward to welcoming the Lord Lieutenant for Derbyshire to our offices soon to officially receive our award along with joining the other 224 UK winners in a celebration event at Buckingham Palace in July.”

The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are the most prestigious, comprehensive, and detailed business awards in the UK. The award lasts five years and elevates the reputation of each winning company to a superior level so they may achieve further growth, progression, and success in the coming years.

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

Chesterfield’s Superior Wellness supports Mental Health Awareness Week

Chesterfield-based Superior Wellness has announced it is supporting the national Mental Health Awareness Week by helping to share the campaign and raise awareness.

The week, which is hosted by the Mental Health Foundation, is in its 22nd year and runs from 9-15 May.

This year, the theme for the week is ‘Loneliness’. Across the country, people will be reflecting on loneliness and how it impacts our mental health. Long-term loneliness is closely linked to mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.

Carol Claydon, Head of HR at Superior Wellness said: “We not only focus on physical health but mental health too.  I am a trained mental health champion and team members can speak to me any time.  Our culture is like one big family and we all support each other as one team.  We are also all based in the office and not at home which will help with those who may have struggled during the pandemic with loneliness.

“We do a huge amount at Superior Wellness as a team including a weekly team building activity, fitness classes and celebrating birthdays.  We even have a games room with pool tables and table tennis which team members use at lunch time or after work. We are very supportive as a team and ensure our work environment is a positive and happy place to be.”

Mark Rowland Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation said:

“We hope this year’s theme of loneliness will strike a chord with many of us who felt lonely and struggled throughout the Covid pandemic.

“Millions of us experience loneliness from time to time. We know that some people are at higher risk of experiencing loneliness and the evidence shows the longer we feel lonely, the more we are at risk of mental health problems.

“Loneliness deserves more attention and we’re calling on everyone who has struggled as a result of being lonely to share their experiences. We must work together – as individuals, as a society and through government policy – to reduce loneliness and prevent mental health problems by investing in welcoming, social spaces and new community initiatives.”

Some of the ways people can participate in Mental Health Awareness Week:

  • During Mental Health Awareness Week use the hashtag #IveBeenThere to share experiences of loneliness to support others and give the campaign momentum.
  • Sign up to walk, run or job as part of our 80 Miles in May challenge and share your photos using #80MilesinMay and #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek.

For more information about this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week visit mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw or join the conversation on social media using #IveBeenThere and #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek

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.

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

Chesterfield’s latest Mayor set to be sworn in

Councillor Tony Rogers is set to begin his term of office as Chesterfield’s 381st Mayor, taking over the position as the borough’s civic head for the coming year.

Councillor Rogers will be sworn in at Chesterfield Borough Council’s Annual Council Meeting on Wednesday 11 May.

On the following Saturday (14 May) Chesterfield residents are invited to come and celebrate Chesterfield’s new Mayor at the annual Civic Parade which will take place in the town centre.

Councillor Rogers said: “I am proud to be representing the residents of the borough of Chesterfield and would like to thank them for their continued support. I hope to meet as many residents as possible over the coming year.”

The Civic Parade is an opportunity to celebrate the new Mayor. The parade will leave from the Town Hall at 10.40am and will head through the town centre to the Church of St Mary and All Saints (Crooked Spire) where there will be a service at 11am.  At noon the parade will return to the Town Hall.

There will be several dignitaries from across Derbyshire in attendance at the parade, along with Freemen, Aldermen, and Former Mayors of Chesterfield, and organisations such as the Chesterfield Sea and Royal Marine Cadets will be out in force.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the parade and Church service, with seats being allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Originally from South-West England, Tony was born in 1938 and after leaving school he worked as an agricultural merchant at South Devon Farmers Limited, where he trained to be a manager and sold farming goods. At the age of 17, Tony was called up to serve in the British Army for two years. Upon return from his national service, he set up his own company, Tony Rogers Agricultural Ltd, selling animal feed, before managing Hotel Kildare, his family’s business in Kingsbridge, Devon for 15 years.

He married his wife Sharon in 1979 and together they moved to Chesterfield in 1990. Tony and Sharon now have eight grandchildren who they love to spend time with, and a rescue dog, Lottie, who came from Bulgaria to become part of the family.

Tony was elected as Liberal Democrat councillor for Moor ward and has served the community through several terms of office for over 11 years. Tony has dedicated a lot of his time to being on the board of trustees and the chairman of Hope Springs recovery centre, which was a day centre for residents recovering from alcohol and drug addiction and the associated mental health issues.

Sharon Rogers will serve as Mayoress for this coming civic year. Sharon was born in Michigan in the USA before moving to Nottingham in the 1950s. She followed a career in nursing, specialising in paediatric nursing and children’s intensive care, eventually becoming a Senior Sister. At the age of 21, Sharon was the youngest doubly qualified sister in the UK.

In retirement she worked as Manager of the Hope Springs Recovery Centre where she also served as a Trustee until it closed in 2019. She is currently an active board member for The Volunteer Centre in Chesterfield.

Councillor Rogers and his wife replace Councillor Glenys Falconer and Councillor Keith Falconer, who served as mayor and consort for an extended term of office due to the pandemic from October 2020 until April 2022.

Councillor Mick Brady will serve as Deputy Mayor, and the Deputy Mayoress will be Councillor Suzie Perkins.

The Mayor carries out civic ceremonial duties and chairs meetings of full council. They are elected on an annual basis by full council.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,