chesterfield town centre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gavin and Hannah Grainger outside Elder Way

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Around 7,000 fans gather at Town Hall to celebrate Chesterfield FC’s title win

Around 7,000 Chesterfield FC supporters turned out in the town centre to celebrate the club’s return to the English Football League at the weekend.

Fans gathered outside Chesterfield Town Hall on Sunday 21 April to welcome players and coaching staff out on to the balcony and bring a truly memorable season to a close.

The event, organised by Chesterfield Borough Council – in partnership with Chesterfield Football Club – brought a party atmosphere to the town centre, with live music and entertainment provided to help get fans into the spirit.

As well as appearing on the balcony, first team players and coaching staff took part in a short walkabout in front of the Town Hall – giving supporters the chance to get photos and autographs.

Following the appearance on the balcony and walkabout, the club’s players and coaching staff attended a civic reception with representatives from the council and other local dignitaries.

During the civic ceremony Leader of the council, Councillor Tricia Gilby, presented a Silver Salver to the Club, to formally acknowledge the achievements of this season.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of the Council, said: “We’d like to congratulate Chesterfield Football Club once again on their promotion back into the English Football League. It is great for the Club and for their loyal band of supporters but also great for the town and the borough. A successful football club brings new visitors to the town and is a vital part of Chesterfield’s economy.

“Sunday was a brilliant occasion for the club and the town and it was great to see so many supporters turn out.”

John Croot, Chief Executive of Chesterfield FC, said: “It was a wonderful day for everyone associated with the club and fantastic to see so many supporters there, making it a real community event.

“I would like to thank Chesterfield Borough Council for their hospitality.”

Find out more about the wide range of exciting events coming up in Chesterfield.

Chesterfield Football Club and Chesterfield Borough Council support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

Chesterfield FC trophy parade town hall

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Action packed 1940s Market returns to Chesterfield next month

The fun-filled 1940s market returns to Chesterfield next month – with a wide range of free entertainment on offer for the whole family to enjoy.

The hugely popular event will bring 1940s music, live entertainment, classic cars and military vehicles to the heart of the town centre on Thursday 11 April between 10am and 4pm.

Visitors will also be able to see the return of the iconic replica spitfire, as the must-see attraction returns to Rykneld Square for the first time since 2021.

Street performers will take centre stage through the day, including the Kalamazoo dance band and The Daisy Belles singers – both back again this year by popular demand, alongside other entertainers.

The action-packed event is taking place alongside the weekly flea market, and as always market traders will be dressing up in 1940s outfits to try and win the competition for the best dressed stall holders.

The team from Chesterfield Museum will also be joined by staff from Up An At Em History, who will be able to share more information about life on the home front and food rationing. There will also be the opportunity to explore the era handling objects and get involved with some crafting.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The 1940s Market is a really popular event that is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.

“I’d definitely recommend coming along if you haven’t been before, as there is sure to be something here to entertain the whole family during half term. You could even get into the spirit and dress up in traditional 1940s outfits too!

“The event has grown to such popularity thanks to its close ties with our much-loved Thursday flea market, and people travel to Chesterfield from all over the country to take part in this unique day. With it taking place in the Easter holidays many people love to come along as a family holiday activity.”

The event is part-funded by external funding from Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). It is just one initiative which is benefiting from funding through the UKSPF, after the council was successful in securing £2.6m. It will fund initiatives up to April 2025, which are designed to improve life for local people and support local businesses.

1940s Mining display

The full programme of entertainment can be found below:

New Square (opposite the Portland Hotel)

• Kalamazoo Dance Band: 11am to 11.45am , 1pm to 1.45pm and 2.30pm to 3.15pm

Outside Etienne Curtains and Blinds

• The Daisy Belles (singers): 10.15am to 10:45am, 12.15pm to 12.45pm and 1.45pm to 2.15pm

Market Place

• Display of classic cars, vintage fire engine and military vehicles: 10am to 4pm
• Land Army and 1940s Mining display: 10am to 4pm
• Escape artist / glass walker: 10.45am to 11.10am, 1pm –to 1.25pm and 3pm to 3.25pm

Market Square (outside Santander)

• Natasha Harper (singer): 10.30am to 11am, 12.10pm to 12.40pm and 1.30pm to 2.00pm
• Kyle Evans (singer): 11.20am to 11.50am, 1pm to 1.30pm and 2.10pm to 2.40pm
• Shire Horses: 11am to 1pm

Pavements Shopping Centre (outside old Massarella’s Unit)

Between 10am and 4pm the team from Chesterfield Museum will be joined by Up An At Em History.

• Find out about life on the Home Front, what was on the ration and how we kept Britain fed from the gardens and kitchens of Britain
• From the Land Girls and cooks feeding the nation, find out about rationing and have a go at making some basic “mock” foods
• Plant a seed to take away
• Try your hand at milking and learn the way the Land Girls did
• Explore World War II handling objects
• Take part in crafting sessions and view exhibition panels

Rykneld Square (outside the Visitor Information Centre)

• Full size replica Spitfire: available to see between 10am and 4pm
• Jayne Darling (singer): 10am to 10.40am, 11.30am – 12.10pm and 2pm to 2.40pm
• Johnny Victory (singer): 10.45am to 11.15am, 1.10pm to 1.40pm and 3pm to 3.30pm

St. Mary and All Saints Church (Crooked Spire)

Tower Tours: 10.30am to 11.30pm and 2.30pm to 3.30pm

Tickets prices at £10 for adults, £5 for under 16s or a family ticket (two adults and two under 16s) for £20

Kalamazoo Dance Band entertaining the crowd at the 1940s market

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Hotpod Yoga studio set to open at Chesterfield’s Elder Way

Hotpod Yoga will be the first tenant to locate to the new units created in the former Co-op department store on Elder Way.

Chris Wilkinson, owner of the new Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield franchise, has signed a 10-year lease on unit 7, a 1,420 sq ft unit located at the top of Elder Way near Saltergate.

He said: “I love the location. It is prominently located in the town centre and offers convenient parking for customers. It is a beautiful building, full of history and fresh energy. I am very much looking forward to opening the studio.”

Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield will open to the public on Thursday 18 April, with the first class taking place at 12.30pm.

Part of the national Hotpod Yoga chain, the new studio on Elder Way will offer an immersive yoga experience, using a pod as a safe environment for people to practice yoga in 37-degree heat while maximising the senses through relaxing sounds and calming scents.

The new Hotpod Yoga unit is one of seven street level units and large basement that have been created by regeneration specialist Jomast Developments. Additionally, there is a 92-bed Premier Inn hotel which has been successfully trading on the upper two floors of the building since 2019.

Mark Hill, Jomast’s Commercial Property Director welcomed Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield to Elder Way saying: “The addition of Hotpod Yoga to Elder Way brings forward the health and wellbeing element we envisaged for the building when we redeveloped it. Elder Way offers an ideal location for businesses. Not only is it an iconic building, but it is centrally located and benefits from excellent amenities and footfall from surrounding businesses, all of which have been further boosted by Chesterfield Borough Council’s investment in the town centre.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It is fantastic to be able to welcome a new business to the town centre and I am delighted that they have chosen to be based on Elder Way. Following on from the redevelopment of the old Co-op department store we invested in improving the paving and area from Elder Way along Packers Row as part of our Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project.

“This investment has helped create a more attractive area and we will begin work on the wider project in the marketplace later this year. Using external funding to help improve our town centre is about creating an environment where businesses and visitors want to be, which will help grow our local economy.

“I wish Chris all the best with his new business venture, and I look forward to welcoming more businesses to Elder Way in the future.”

Work is now underway to install the heated pod, showers, toilets, changing and reception areas ahead of the opening next month.

Chris commented: “The unit is a real blank canvas which is making for a straightforward fit out.”

As a former NHS mental health nurse, Chris, who is also a qualified yoga teacher, aims to offer both health and wellbeing benefits through the yoga classes which will be delivered by fully qualified instructors. Classes, which are suitable for all levels, will run seven days a week from 6.30am.

The opening of the new yoga studio at Elder Way brings the Hotpod Yoga brand back to Chesterfield. Previously owned by another franchisee, and located at Chesterfield FC, the studio was forced to close amid the Covid crisis.

Chris commented: “I am delighted to bring the Hotpod Yoga brand back to Chesterfield. There was demand for it then and I believe demand has increased further as people recognise the mental health benefits of hot yoga as the heat enables the mind to become more focussed.”

Launched in 2013, Hotpod Yoga is now Europe’s largest yoga business with around 70 locations, including Sheffield and Derby.

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

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

To book a class at Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield, visit hotpodyoga.com/studios/chesterfield/

Chris Wilkinson Hotpod Yoga Elder Way

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Work completed on luxury Chesterfield town centre apartments

The creation of 55 high-spec apartments in a prominent Chesterfield town centre building has been completed less than a year after work began.

The project has come in bang on schedule, and a launch date for the new apartments above shops in Burlington Street is taking place today (Friday, March 15).

Nottingham-based developer ALB Group has achieved a “first” for the company in its conversion of the town centre space.

As part of the redevelopment, an extra floor has been added at the top of the building, providing an additional 13 apartments, many of which have the benefit of a balcony.

Arran Bailey, managing director of ALB Group, said he was delighted with the end result.

“The result is unbelievable,” he said. “Not only has it made the existing building look so much more appealing and modern, but it has also created some apartments with fabulous outside space.

“The upper two floors of the building have now been remodelled while the ground floor remains in use for commercial retailers.”

Tenants currently occupying the commercial space on the ground floor include H Samuel, Betfred, and Max Speilman.

Arran said: “It’s the first time we have added an extra storey onto a block, and it’s turned out fantastically – we are very pleased with the results.”

The development has taken just 51 weeks from work starting until finish.

“We are extremely happy with how this redevelopment has turned out,” said Arran. “It has transformed the high street, breathing new life in this part of the town, while also providing high specification ‘must have’ apartments for the people of Chesterfield.”

ALB is committed to championing improvements in town and city centres across the country. The firm has made recent property purchases in Norwich, Stoke-on-Trent, Derby, Nottingham, Peterborough, Ipswich, Huddersfield and Birkenhead, where footfall has since seen significant increases.

Rated the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family, and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands, our town has so much to offer. Find out more about living in Chesterfield here. 

Chesterfield apartments burlington street external

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Quirky new Chesterfield town centre store to provide ‘a smile, a laugh and bit of mischief’ to customers

A quirky independent store has opened its doors in Chesterfield Town Centre, selling a wide range of gifts and other unique items.

Eclectic Delights of Serendipity is owned by mother and daughter duo, Cheryl Knowles and Saffy Kendal-Allan, and has been running in Derbyshire for several years. Now, the business has begun welcoming customers to a new shop, based at 12 High Street.

The pair told us their story of running the business, and how it led to them taking the step to open in Chesterfield: “Some may know us from our little shop in Matlock Bath or previously our Hope shop or even know us from the beginning of our journey, 9 years ago at Cheryl’s first tiny shop just off Newbold Road.

spice girls mats eclectic delights

“Cheryl started off in her small shop doing re-loved furniture and small gifts which then took on a life of its own and she had to move into a larger shop at Hope Valley where she began being known more as a Gift, Clothing and Re-loved furniture shop. After a few years there, Cheryl then set her eyes on the ‘sea-side-without-a-sea’ town of Matlock Bath where Saffy joined to manage the shop as Cheryl continued in Hope Valley.

“However, after lockdown we decided to shut the Hope Valley shop and focus our efforts on Matlock Bath. After five years we decided we wanted a shop closer to home and by luck 12 High Street became available and three weeks later we are now in and ready for business.”

Cheryl and Saffy also explained what customers can expect to find when visiting the new Chesterfield shop.

They added: “Our shop name is exactly the type of items we sell: a broad and diverse range of items that you weren’t looking for but they appeared when you needed them. We are proud stockists of local independent suppliers such as: Letterbox Love, WaggyDogz, Enchanted Love, and so many more.

ecelctic delights

“We truly believe in having something that is for everyone which is why we don’t just sell cards and gifts but leather handbags, a MyMoments machine (which creates personalised items) and currently in the process of making a Boutique on our first floor. We also have plans for workshops on our first and top floor for both adults and children – so watch this space!”

In addition, the duo emphasised the importance of looking after customers and explained how they want to build up their community around the shop and the town: “What sets us apart from others is our customer care. We might be a shop, but we focus and care for our customers and their mental well-being while they are in our shop.

“Not everyone needs to buy something, but sometimes they just need someone to talk to and that’s what we are there for. We truly believe that if you look after the community around you, the community will look after you. Also, being a Mother and Daughter team we are always ready with a smile, a laugh and bit of mischief for all our customers as you can usually find us laughing and causing havoc together.

Being able to share this dream of running a shop together and bringing things in that we love and adore as well as spending so much time together is amazing and has brought us so close!”

“We are so excited to be a part of Chesterfield’s wide range of quirky independents. We have lived in Chesterfield for over 15 years and love the character of the town and its people. Chesterfield has such a friendly and welcoming community of people which we feel is unlike most towns or cities. As shoppers and now a business in the town we agree that we all need to support our local independents – each one brings something different and unique to the town making it a fun, diverse and great place to live and shop!”

For more information about the store, head over to the Eclectic Delights of Serendipity Facebook page.

Looking for a great opportunity to kickstart your leisure or retail business? Find out more about locating it in Chesterfield.

heart & home eclectic delights

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New business centre created in Chesterfield town centre following £800,000 investment

A prominent Chesterfield town centre building has been given a new lease of life, and is soon set to become a business centre to meet the needs of contemporary professionals and businesses.

York House, on St. Mary’s Gate will now be known as York House Business Centre following the transformation of the property by Sovereign Assets & Developments.

A significant investment in the region of £800,000 has been made to ensure York House is at the forefront of workspace solutions in Chesterfield.

The development includes a substantial refurbishment to introduce a range of high-quality, serviced self-contained offices, workspaces and a coffee shop.

The company says standout features of York House which led them to invest in the premises include:

  • Prime location in central Chesterfield, offering accessibility and visibility.
  • Flexibility with a variety of office sizes and layouts to cater to different business needs.
  • High-speed internet connectivity to ensure productivity is never hampered.
  • Modern amenities including meeting rooms, communal kitchen area and a coffee shop
  • A sleek finish to every office, designed to inspire creativity and professionalism.

A spokesperson for the developer commented: “At York House Business Centre, we’ve been diligently transforming this iconic building into a modern, functional business centre designed to meet the needs of contemporary professionals and businesses.

“Our vision for York House is to create a space that not only serves as a practical work environment but also fosters a community of innovation and growth for all its members.

“Every corner of York House has been reimagined to offer the perfect blend of heritage charm and modern convenience, with state-of-the-art facilities that businesses need to thrive in today’s fast-paced world.

“The choice to develop York House into business units was driven by the building’s innate potential and Chesterfield’s growing demand for quality office space. We recognised the opportunity to create something that could truly make a difference for local and incoming businesses.

“York House will play a pivotal role in growing the local economy by attracting diverse businesses and talents to the area. By providing top-notch facilities, we’re helping start-ups, scale-ups, and established companies to operate efficiently, which in turn will generate job opportunities and stimulate economic activity.

“Through York House, we’re excited to contribute to Chesterfield’s growth, helping the town to become an even more desirable place for businesses to set up and flourish.”

The company has also cited several reasons as to why it believes Chesterfield is incredibly attractive to businesses:

  • Strategic location near major cities like Sheffield and Nottingham, while also providing easy access to the Peak District.
  • Excellent transport links, including proximity to the M1 motorway, rail services, and airports.
  • A rich industrial heritage translated into a strong work ethic among the local population.
  • Competitive cost of living and business operation compared to larger cities.
  • Continued investment in local infrastructure, making it a town that’s on the up.

Businesses and professionals who are interested in finding out more about York House Business Centre can do so by visiting Zoopla, or by emailing: Enquiries@sovereignad.co.uk

Find out more about why Chesterfield is the perfect location to start-up or grow your business venture.

York House

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Craft and makers market coming to Chesterfield

A new pop-up market will bring a selection of crafters and makers to Chesterfield each month this year.

Little Hummingbird Events are partnering with Chesterfield Borough Council to bring their unique offering to Chesterfield on one Saturday each month from 10am to 4pm starting on 9 March.

The Independent Makers and Crafters Market will include seasonal food offerings, handmade gifts and much more – hosting it alongside the town’s regular Saturday market will encourage more people to visit and support both market traders and local retailers.

Nicola Hudson, owner of Little Hummingbird Events, said: “We are thrilled to be supporting Chesterfield Borough Council on this exciting new monthly project.

“As a small company ourselves our passion is helping to support small independent businesses. It is this ethos which drives us to help them reach new and regular audiences so that their own business models grow.

“What most people don’t realise is, the bulk of business in the UK is in fact small business. If ever there was a time to support small independents, it is now.”

Little Hummingbird Events have previously worked in Chesterfield, hosting a Maker’s Market in summer 2023.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We’re excited to welcome Little Hummingbird Events and their fantastic traders back to the town centre.

“The aim is to enhance the market offering bringing new people into the town centre and encouraging them to support existing businesses as well as the new traders. I hope a lot of people will come along and support the new traders coming to Chesterfield.”

Markets are planned on the main market for each month throughout 2024, for a full list of dates head over to our events page.

Find out more about shopping in Chesterfield, home to a range of unique independent shops and well-known national retailers.

town centre chesterfield market hall

Image courtesy of Derbyshire Economic Partnership

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New radio studio forms part of expansion for Chesterfield record store

A record store in Chesterfield has announced an exciting expansion, which includes a new independent radio station for local DJs to follow their passion for music.

Vanishing Point Records, based in Theatre Yard in the town centre, has become a popular spot for music lovers selling pre-loved vinyl records across many genres.

The businesses, which began in 2017 had previously expanded in 2019. However in 2023, the shop took up a neighbouring unit which enabled further growth.

Acquiring the extra space has given Vanishing Point Records the opportunity to showcase its huge 12″ single collection, which is thought to be one of the biggest in the East Midlands with a collection of around 5000. On top of this, the store has also been able to build a new radio studio.

The studio is now a home for Radio Free Matlock, which is a station that Vanishing Point Owner, Corey Lavender was already heavily involved in prior to the store’s expansion.

Corey takes up the story, commenting: “On our second ever day of trading I met a guy who ran an ultra local radio station in Matlock, named “Radio Free Smedley Street”. From that day onwards I got involved with the station, firstly as a listener and then when that guy left the station, I along with a few of the other DJs decided to take over the running of it.

“We renamed it Radio Free Matlock (RFM for short) and we started recruiting DJs wherever we could find them. I met loads of our DJs when they came into the store for a browse. They left with or without a vinyl record but also a radio show!

“So, when I took on the extra unit in Theatre Yard It was always my intention that part of it would be devoted to some ‘radio’ space. Building this was daunting anyway, I had zero experience in building radio studios, but we were doing it on zero budget, just with stuff we had in our various home studios.

Vanishing point radio studio

“Luckily I could call on my RFM colleagues Ash Bird and Lucie De Lacy to help! By September 2023 we had a set up in the studio that we liked. We had two vinyl decks for proper DJs to come and play a set, a mixing desk with 4 mics hooked up, a CD player and the ability to input from a laptop. All held together with a old (ish) Mac kindly donated by Lucie.”

“In October our debut ‘LIVE’ radio show was broadcast, it was called The Monthly Jam hosted by Ash and Lucie and we had a special guest Emzae, a pop artist from Derby  who came in for a chat and to sign copies of her latest album.

“Since then we have done weekly live radio shows on Saturday afternoons from 12 till 2pm with a rotation of shows and DJs, and they are brilliant. People come in to watch the shows, to listen to the shows and customers quite often get involved too, and every single one has been brilliant with the vibe on Saturdays being fantastic.”

Corey added that the success of the new radio station has also led to further success for Vanishing Point Records in terms of sales. All five of its best ever trading months have come since the expansion and the studio addition.

Speaking of his love for owning a business in Chesterfield, he added: “Having grown up in Chesterfield, and loving the town (and the football club) It is a dream to be able to do my favorite thing in my favorite place. It’s also a privilege to have so many fellow indie traders in town too, who are on hand to help out with advice and encouragement.

“We really do have a great opportunity to make ourselves successful in this new era of destination shopping. The internet has changed everything  but we have loads of unique shops, cafes and bars who might not be able to spend a ton on advertising to let you know they’re there like the old major chains can. But if anyone hasn’t been to town for a while, maybe go and you might just find your new favorite place.”

Find out more about visiting Chesterfield.

Vanishing Point

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Peddler Market returns to Chesterfield with four events in 2024

The organisers of Peddler Market – which saw thousands flock to the town centre in June and September last year – have announced four events for 2024.

Working in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council, Peddler Market will be bringing their unique street food event back to Chesterfield on 22 and 23 March with another three dates planned on 17 and 18 May, 19 and 20 July and 20 and 21 September.

Ben Smith, Director at Peddler Events, said: “We have been blown away by the positive response to our inaugural events in Chesterfield during 2023. It’s always been our view that Chesterfield town centre is an amazing setting for events like ours, with a backdrop that most towns and cities would crave for.

“We cannot wait to be back after a winter break. We are actively shaping the event to improve and respond to feedback.  With confidence we feel our unique combination of live music, outstanding street food and craft beer/ cocktails creates a unique and unrivalled social setting for those wanting to mingle, socialise and soak up the good stuff.”

The first event in March will be open from 4pm to 10pm on Friday 22 and from 12pm to 9.30pm on Saturday 23 – confirmed street food traders include:

  • Pizza Pi
  • Flying Cow
  • Yoi Fried Chicken
  • Kool Kuta
  • Taste of Korea
  • Feast from the East
  • The Cheesy Pig
  • Urban Cheesecake

There will be a selection of market traders selling unique handmade items, family activities led by My Arty Party and there will also be some fantastic live entertainment.

Find out more about the event by visiting: www.peddler.market/events/peddler-market-chesterfield

Chesterfield Borough Council has partnered with Peddler Market to help support and establish the event – putting Chesterfield on the map as a go-to place for the unique Peddler experience.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Last year thousands of people came and enjoyed the fantastic range of food and family friendly atmosphere at the events in June and September. Having Peddler bring their vast experience to our town brings more visitors to the town centre which leads to higher sales for existing businesses.

“We’re delighted to be welcoming the Peddler team back to Chesterfield in 2024 and I hope lots of people will come and support these great events.”

Funding to help bring the event to Chesterfield has been provided through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Chesterfield Borough Council received £2.69m of UKSPF funding which will be invested across the borough. A portion of this is being invested into promoting the borough as a place to visit, and providing support for arts, culture, and heritage activities.

Crowds enjoying food at colourful market in Chesterfield

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New pottery painting shop enables Chesterfield residents to unleash their creativity

A new pottery shop, which enables customers to paint their own pots has opened in Chesterfield.

Peel Pottery is now up and running in the Old Mill building of H&F on New Beetwell Street in the town centre.

The store offers a pot ceramic studio suitable for all ages and abilities, whether for the lone painter, a group of friends, work colleagues or special occasions. The shop also specialises in children’s birthday parties, hen parties and team building sessions.

Owner, Louise Peel explains where the idea for the new store came from:

“I have been learning the art of pottery for a few years now, and feel that Chesterfield deserves a lovely space for any individual to come and unleash their creativity. So I have spent some time creating an area at our shop, ready for ‘paint a pot’ and we are also in the process of setting up evening classes in pottery and other arts. I have friends willing to come down and teach jewellery making, Painting tutorials and more.

“The ceramic studio is located on the first floor of H&F and can accommodate up to 24 people, and it has a kitchen area providing light refreshments whilst you create your ceramic masterpiece.

“As a local person I feel that we need a hub that offers several independent services. The building of H&F in January will offer a café and restaurant area at the rear (Devil’s Depot), our handcrafted furniture and accessories at H&F in the main building, and our ceramic studio and workshop on the first floor. This should offer a little something for everyone all under one roof. So please pop down and visit us”

Find out more about the new centre at: www.peelpottery.co.uk or www.handf.co.uk

Visit Chesterfield for a great day out or to stay. Our town is brilliantly located in the centre of the UK, with a great range of entertainment for all ages and interests. For more information, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

peel pottery 2

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