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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

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

National Careers Week: How Chesterfield apprentices are unlocking business growth in Chesterfield

Chesterfield businesses are being urged to futureproof their workforces by finding out more about the far-reaching benefits of taking on apprentices in the town.

Apprenticeships have long been recognised as a powerful tool for bridging the gap between education and employment. In Chesterfield, this holds particularly true, as businesses stand to gain several benefits by taking on apprentices.

Ahead of National Careers Week 2024 (4-9 March), a panel of apprentices building their careers in the town have outlined these advantages, from fostering a skilled workforce for the future, to enhancing company culture and driving innovation.

Speaking to Destination Chesterfield and the Derbyshire Times, apprentices in the town spoke of the numerous ways in which they are contributing to their organisations. In an era defined by advancing technology and evolving industry demands, the need for skilled workers has never been more pronounced. By taking on apprentices, businesses in Chesterfield have been able to address this need by nurturing fresh talent and providing them with invaluable hands-on experience.

Lucy Jones, Level 3 Business Administrator Apprentice with DBCP commented: “Apprentices have different backgrounds, ideas and viewpoints which can help to combat challenges which may arise in the business.

Lucy Jones - DBCP

Lucy Jones – DBCP

“They bring a different mindset to everyone else. You get to mould that person for your business and work with them to be a better version of themselves, with a range of skills from time management to dealing with clients. Apprentices are taking their learning and applying it to your business straight away.”

Moreover, businesses have the opportunity to tailor apprenticeship programs to align with their specific needs and objectives, ensuring that apprentices receive training that directly translates into tangible contributions to the company.

By investing in the development of apprentices, businesses not only secure a pipeline of skilled workers but also cultivate a culture of learning and growth within their organisation. This commitment to employee development not only benefits the individual apprentice but also contributes to the long-term success and sustainability of the business and Chesterfield’s economy.

Chanelle Wallace, Level 2 Hairdressing Apprentice at MD Hair said: “Being based at the salon gives me a great opportunity to learn everyone else’s techniques and soak up all their experience. I’m then able to use that to find my style and ways of doing things, which I think helps to strengthen and grow the team. If you work with more experienced people, you’re going to learn those key social skills, which for my area of work is so important.”

Woman in a salon drying another woman's hair

Chanelle Wallace, MD Hair, Level 2 Hairdressing Apprentice

Apprenticeships are crucial in driving innovation by injecting fresh perspectives and new ideas into the workplace. As digital technologies continue to reshape industries, businesses in Chesterfield can leverage apprenticeships to harness emerging talent and foster a culture of innovation.

Isaac Marbridge, Level 7 ACCA Chartered Accountant Apprentice at BHP commented: “If a business has the flexibility to work with an apprentice, I’d recommend it. I have quarterly meetings with my manager, and we discuss my progress. I get to regularly put forward skills which I want to get trained up on, which I’m then able to go and pursue. That could be something unique that nobody else has done. This means I can then bring fresh knowledge into the business, which overall will help the organisation.

Isaac Marbridge, BHP Accountants speaking at the Chesterfield Employability and skills conference

Isaac Marbridge, BHP Accountants speaking at the Chesterfield Employability and skills conference.

“Businesses will gain a lot by getting a different perspective. My industry, accountancy, is transforming and we must keep up with new technologies. Younger people coming through as apprentices and trainees will be better placed to get trained and help to drive the business forward. We’ve had talks about AI and how that is set to impact our sector, and we’ve got younger people already looking at how we can use it to our advantage.”

Furthermore, apprenticeships provide businesses with the opportunity to future-proof their workforce by equipping apprentices with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape. Whether it’s mastering new technologies, adapting to shifting market trends, or navigating regulatory changes, apprenticeships empower businesses in Chesterfield to stay agile and resilient in the face of uncertainty.

Moreover, apprenticeships provide existing employees with the opportunity to mentor and support the next generation of talent, fostering a sense of pride and fulfilment in their roles. This mentorship not only enhances the professional development of apprentices but also cultivates strong bonds between team members, leading to greater cohesion and productivity.

DBCP’s Lucy Jones added: “Most of the inspectors in our organisation are from an older generation. I think that it is important that we get trainees and apprentices into that role to keep it going and ensure the future of our industry. The job comes with a lot of responsibility, so it’s vital we give people that hands-on experience as soon as we can.”

In Chesterfield, businesses stand to gain a wealth of benefits by embracing apprenticeships as a cornerstone of their workforce development strategy. To assist businesses in ensuring they have the workforce required to meet the demands of the future, Chesterfield Borough Council has launched a skills brokerage service, which can signpost firms to the support they require.

Max Denton, Skills Delivery Assistant at Chesterfield Borough Council is currently working towards a Level 4 Project Management apprenticeship. He commented: “The role I carry out aligns with one of the five objectives in the council’s growth strategy, which is ensuring that people in our borough have the right skills to progress in the labour market and benefit from future employment opportunities.

Three men stood having a conversation

Max Denton, Chesterfield Borough Council, Level 4 Project Manager Associate

“I believe that there is a lot of opportunity in Chesterfield at the moment. It is a pleasure to see the amount of development taking place here. It will certainly lead to more employment opportunities in the town. The focus of our growth strategy is to create higher-value jobs and growth, and I would encourage businesses to get in touch with us to see how we can support them.”

To find out more about apprenticeships and skills support for businesses in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/

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New bookable on demand bus service for Chesterfield, Bolsover, and North East Derbyshire

Residents are now able to use a new bus service to take them anywhere within Chesterfield, Bolsover and North East Derbyshire.

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Local Charity presented with Kings Award For Voluntary Service

A Chesterfield charity, The Volunteer Centre has been presented with a prestigious Kings Award for Voluntary Service.

Every day, millions of people across the UK are making a difference by volunteering. Each year, outstanding examples of this work are celebrated through the King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS).

On Friday the 16th February The Volunteer Centre, Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire, were presented with The Kings Award for the outstanding work they do.

Created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and previously known as The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS), the Award has been shining a light on the fantastic work of voluntary groups from all across the UK for many years.

Upon presenting the Award, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire, Col John Wilson OBE said, “This award isn’t given out lightly, in fact this year only six of the nominated charities in Derbyshire have been granted it.”

The Kings Award always looks to celebrate organisations that are truly outstanding and making a big difference to their local community.  Equivalent to an MBE, KAVS is the highest Award given to voluntary groups in the UK, and they are awarded for life.

Chief Executive, Dave Radford said, “This is a tremendous honour, the best thing that has happened to us in our 28 years, it is very exciting but of course none of it would have been possible without the dedication of our tremendous volunteers.”

He continued, “They were immense during the pandemic when they provided a shopping service to over 5,000 different referrals, more than any group in Derbyshire.”

If you feel like you’d like to volunteer, then why not contact an award winning Volunteer Centre on 01246 276777

The Volunteer Centre

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Chamber warns new government railway funding needs to do more to respond to East Midlands’ needs

Long-anticipated government funds of £123 million allocated to Midlands Rail Hub – a project to improve connectivity between train stations across the midlands – is to be welcomed, however, does little to meet the needs of those in the East Midlands, say East Midlands Chamber.

The initiative uses cash freed up by abandoned HS2 funds to upgrade stations and improve infrastructure across the overall midlands area.

East Midlands Chamber Director of Policy and Insight Chris Hobson said:

“While any investment in midlands railway infrastructure is to be welcomed, we’re concerned that once again the primary focus is on towns and cities outside of the East Midlands. Our Manifesto for Growth 2024, which we’re taking to Westminster on 11th March, asks our policy makers to ensure we deliver fair funding for infrastructure in the East Midlands.

“This isn’t about receiving investment at the expense of our neighbours to the west, it’s about Government doing more to rectify the fact that we are the most under-funded region in the country when it comes to rail travel.

“We have desperately inadequate service between stations within the East Midlands and this hampers the tremendous growth potential of businesses. It’s all very well that a Birmingham-bound passenger might be able to jump on an extra train here and there at Nottingham but what we’re stating loud and clear in our manifesto is the huge need for transformational improvement within the East Midlands.

“We look forward to taking our manifesto to Westminster on 11th March and insisting politicians listen to what our businesses need to succeed.”

In Chesterfield, ambitious plans are set to transform the area between the town centre and Chesterfield Railway Station – creating a vibrant gateway to North Derbyshire and providing improved public transport access.

Read more about the Chesterfield Station Masterplan here.

Chesterfield rail train station

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Chesterfield legal firms celebrated at regional awards ceremony

Two Chesterfield legal firms, Banner Jones Solicitors and CMP Legal received accolades at the annual Sheffield & District Law Society Awards.

The team at Banner Jones are celebrating after winning Employment Team of the Year at the event, which took place on the 23rd of February at the historic Crowne Plaza Royal Victoria Hotel, Sheffield.

The event saw the Employment Team take home the accolade for the third consecutive year.

Commenting on the news, Banner Jones’ Chief Executive, Simon Wright, said: “The Sheffield & District Law Society Awards provide an opportunity for the local legal community to come together to celebrate our many achievements and successes from across the year.

“It is therefore a real privilege and an honour to have been shortlisted in three categories, and to have taken home another of the awards. Our collective success is a real testament to the hard work and dedication that everyone at the firm has shown over the past 12 months.

“A huge congratulations in particular goes to our Employment Law team, who have now won for the third consecutive year!”

Katie and Sara Banner Jones Employment Team of the Year

Katie Ash, Head of Banner Jones’ Employment team, added: “We are delighted to have won Employment Law Team of the Year for the third time.

“It has been a pleasure to help guide our clients through the past year and we are very much looking forward to building on those relationships throughout 2024 and beyond.”

Meanwhile, fellow Chesterfield solicitors, CMP Legal were also successful at the event, taking home the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Team of the Year award.

Stacey Pocock, Solicitor and Executive Director at CMP Legal commented: “Winning the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Team of the Year award underlines the effort and hard work that has gone into the creation of CMP Legal since we opened our doors for business three years ago.

“We are all thrilled and delighted by the recognition we have received”.

Banner Jones Solicitors and CMP Legal support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

CMP Legal Litigation & Dispute Resolution Team of the Year

 

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Study ranks Chesterfield as the best town in the UK for access to green spaces

A study has named Chesterfield as the best town in the UK for access to green spaces.

The Green Giants market research exercise, which was commissioned by home improvements company Eurocell has set out to discover which UK towns and cities have the best access to green space.

To do this, the study looked at several data points, including the number of homes in each town or city with a private garden, the average square footage of that garden, as well as the average distance to public green space and the percentage of homes on the market that are currently listed as having a private garden.

These figures were then given a score out of 10 and ranked, leading to a total score out of 40.

Eurocell placed Chesterfield in top spot with a score of 30.8 out of 40. It found that:

  • 95% of homes & flats in the town had private outdoor space.
  • The average size of private outdoor space was 249.7 sq. m.
  • The average distance to nearest park, public garden or playing field was 296.7 m.
  • 92.05% of homes currently on the market have a garden.

Speaking about our town’s listing at the top of the table, Eurocell said: “Chesterfield, in Derbyshire, comes out on top as being the best place to live in the UK when it comes to access to green space. Close to the Peak District, Chesterfield is surrounded by the woodland walks and diverse habitats of the national park.”

“And the town itself has numerous parks and gardens including Holmebrook Valley Country Park and Linacre Reservoir.”

See the full top 20 list here. 

People living and working in Chesterfield also commented on the availability of open spaces as one of the area’s key strengths.

Jade Chinn, Marketing Lead at Oasis Studio said: “I personally like taking advantage of all the beautiful country parks and estates we have to explore in and around Chesterfield, Linacre Reservoir and Holmebook being personal favourites. They are also great for team building days!”

Jason Evans, HSE Advisor and Principal Designer at Mascot Management Ltd. added: “I love to go walking along the Chesterfield Canal. It’s on our doorstep and I feel it is still a bit of a hidden gem for our area. It’s a lovely place where you can get some relaxation time and take in the wildlife and scenery.”

Peter Botham, Founder and Managing Director of Shed Grounds Maintenance said: “One of my cherished spots in Chesterfield is Queen’s Park. When I was a child, my godparents would take me on the charming little train track that winds its way around the park. Now, I’ve had the joy of passing on this tradition to my own children.”

Oasis Studio, Mascot Management and Shed Grounds Maintenance support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Family walking at Queen's Park, surrounded by wild flowers

Queen’s Park, Chesterfield town centre

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Smyths Toys set to open its doors in Chesterfield

Major national toy retailer, Smyths Toys Superstores is set to open its doors in Chesterfield next month.

The business will open a new store on the town’s Wheatbridge Retail Park on March 21st, bringing new investment and jobs to the town. The business will neighbour other national chains, Wickes and Carpetright at the development.

Smyths Toys is one of the world’s largest toy retailers and has well over 100 outlets spread across Europe and the UK as well as operating online.

It offers customers a wide range of toys, baby, outdoor and gaming products, and the business says it is dedicated to encouraging learning and developing creativity in children.

The company is set to host a special launch party on its opening weekend in the town from Thursday, 21st March until Sunday, 24th March.

Face painting will be available for children aged three and above, and free candy floss will be given to guests along with a number of free toy giveaways.

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield commented: “It is great to see a well-known national retailer such as Smyths Toys making a major investment in Chesterfield.

“We know that our town has several strengths as a base for retailers, whether they be small independents starting on their business journey, or larger chains looking to expand their footprint.

“It is very encouraging that this national brand has seen the potential of Chesterfield, from its excellent location and transport links, and wide catchment area.

“As residents of Chesterfield, we must all continue to support our high streets wherever possible to ensure they remain vibrant.”

Experience shopping in Chesterfield, a town which boasts a mix of nationally recognised retailers and unique independent stores.

Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/

Smyths Toys opening soon banner outside store

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

Chesterfield homes to get a new lease of life in major renovation

A section of houses in Chesterfield which have been unoccupied for many years are now being brought back to life, following an exciting collaboration between two property businesses.

The buildings at 18-20 Highfield Road date back over 150 years, and are now being restored into high-end and co-living homes.

Once complete, the properties will be managed by Dovedale Property Lettings, who are working alongside Property Projects Group on the revamp.

The works will also greatly improve the energy efficiency of the properties, with plenty of insulation being installed ready for the arrival of new occupants.

Rick Cusimano, Co-Owner of Dovedale Property Lettings explained the story behind the exciting project: “Overgrown with trees and weeds, the houses were barely visible from the road for many years.

“I first became aware of them around 5 years ago, when I tried to make some enquiries to locate the owners, to no avail. Eventually, I saw them go up for auction and immediately knew I had to try and restore them if I could.

“Mark-Jonathan Wilkinson from Property Projects Group shared my vision for bringing these properties back into use and after a few visits he decided to take it on! His team is doing a great job over there.”

“With super-fast broadband and modern decor, these will be stunning places to live. I’m incredibly excited to be able to restore these houses to high-end homes, it’ll be an incredible transformation. Work is progressing well and we’re hoping to be able to officially launch in August this year!”

In addition, Rick also explained the many strengths Chesterfield has for people looking to locate themselves or their families: “I’m a huge advocate for Chesterfield, it has so much potential, with excellent transport links north and south, and the Peak District on the doorstep, it has an enviable location and a huge charm and character with its iconic crooked spire and mock tudor buildings.

“We’re so excited to see the regeneration and development happening within the town, and we’re delighted to be helping, one property at a time!”

Keep up-to-date with the project on the Property Projects Group Linkedin page and the Dovedale Property Lettings website.

progress_garden_clearout Highfield Road

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Veezu go full speed ahead as partners of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K

Local taxi firm Veezu, formerly known as City Taxis, return as title sponsors of the Fun Run incorporated as part of the 2024 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K.

The Veezu Fun Run forms part of the race day activity, and anyone can take part on the 1km course around Queens Park which will start shortly after the 10k race at 10am on Sunday the 24th March.

As well as sponsoring the Fun Run, Veezu are once again providing the lead vehicle for the 10k race. The Veezu branded electric vehicle will not only contribute to the event being more environmentally friendly but will also benefit the crowd of runners behind the vehicle.

Paul Gosney, Business Development Director at Veezu, said: “It’s fantastic to be back sponsoring the Veezu Fun Run and showcasing our recent exciting rebrand at this year’s Chesterfield 10K.

“We are immensely proud to support the event. We want to do all we can to raise its profile and in turn benefit the affiliated charities. You see so many inspirational people taking to the course with the aim of helping worthy charities and the incredible work they do.

“It’s important to us that we give back to the communities we serve, and this is such a great opportunity to do just that.”

John Timms, Event Director, added: “We are thrilled to welcome back Veezu to the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K for 2024. In previous years their involvement has been integral to the success of the event, from providing the lead vehicle to their sponsorship of the Veezu Fun Run.

“It’s a part of the race day that really is much-loved, and we welcome everyone to join in regardless of age or ability. Once you cross the finish line you can commemorate the day with your very own Veezu Fun Run medal.”

Runners in this year’s 10K are fundraising in support of local charities including Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, Cavendish Cancer Care and The Redbrik Foundation.

Entry is just £5 for the Veezu Fun Run and you can register on the day at the race information point, or in advance at www.chesterfield10K.com

Veezu 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.

Veezu 10k

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Spireites honoured for work promoting inclusion

The work done by Chesterfield FC and Chesterfield FC Community Trust to promote inclusion has been recognised on a national level with the presentation of the Non-league Club award at the Football v Homophobia Awards 2024.

Darren Yates and Ellie Yates from Rainbow Spireites, the official Chesterfield FC LGBTQ+ supporters’ group, represented the club at the event, which was held at the National Football Museum in Manchester.

Summing up the reasons for honouring the Spireites, Football v Homophobia said: “From education around equality to the establishment of the Rainbow Spireites group, National League front-runners Chesterfield are among the clubs between Steps 5 and 8 who are setting the standard in inclusion too. 

“Initiatives include a launch at the town’s local Pride festival and pre-match socials for fans. A first-of-its-kind partnership with Derbyshire FA saw all staff trained on how to create welcoming environments, while a project was also created to encourage children and young people to talk about allyship.”

John Croot, chief executive of the club and the Community Trust, said: “We are proud of the work being done by the club and the Trust to promote inclusion, both in football and in the community.

“It is very pleasing to see the efforts put in by everyone involved recognised on a national level.

“Our thanks go to Football v Homophobia for the award and to Rainbow Spireites for representing the club at the event.”

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

Spireites football v homophobia

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