Author: Tara Underhill

More business opportunities at Markham Vale

21st August 2015

New eco-friendly office space is now available at the Markham Vale Environment Centre following an extension of the facility.

With the original building at full occupancy with 12 small businesses, an investment of £975,000 was agreed in February last year to increase the size of the centre.

There are now several additional units for small firms looking to expand and for those already on the site. The units are suitable for a range of businesses operating in the environmental and low-carbon sectors for uses ranging from office space to manufacturing.

Councillor Anne Western, Derbyshire County Council’s leader and cabinet member for strategic policy, economic development and budget said:

“The centre’s extension takes us a step further towards our goal of bringing 5,000 new jobs to Derbyshire for local people.

“Since its opening in 2006, the centre has been home to many small businesses and received positive feedback from occupants.

“We look forward to welcoming new businesses and seeing existing ones on site expand as Markham Vale continues to grow.”

The Environment Centre is in a prime location for businesses with easy access to the M1 motorway from junction 29A, Chesterfield.

A total of £611,520 for the extension came from the European Regional Development Fund with the remaining £363,480 contributed by Derbyshire County Council.

Businesses that may be interested in the new offices or units can contact the Markham Vale Environment Centre’s manager Trudi Saxton tel: 01246 826000 for more information.

Posted in Business

New category added to Derbyshire Sport Awards

19th August 2015

The search is on to find an outstanding Derbyshire organisation or individual who has used sport or physical activity to make a real difference to people’s lives.

New for 2015, the Active4Life Award recognises the role played improving the health, quality of life or wellbeing of the county’s people, or influencing their achievements.

Applications are welcome from schools, workplaces, community organisations or individuals with a compelling story to tell.

It could be a teacher who goes above and beyond the call of duty in supporting extra-curricular physical activity, or it could be a community club which has gone that extra mile to provide a wide range of activities for disabled people.

Deadlines for nominations are fast approaching, so don’t miss out, with a cut-off date of August 25 for Chesterfield Borough.

You can access an online nomination form, and find out more, by going to www.derbyshiresport.co.uk/nominate

Image shows Chesterfield table tennis player, Liam Pitchford.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Remembering Alderman Jim McManus

18th August 2015

The funeral of Alderman Jim McManus will take place on Tuesday 25 August.

Jim’s family have asked that people gather at Staveley Methodist Church at 12.30pm with the service due to take place at 12.40pm.

The funeral cortege will drive past the Town Hall, Rose Hill on its way to the church.

A private cremation will be held at Chesterfield and District Crematorium for close family and friends only, but all are welcome to attend a reception in memory of Jim at Poolsbrook Miners’ Welfare Club after the service.

Donations in lieu of flowers are requested in aid of the new Chesterfield Royal Macmillan Cancer Centre.

Jim served as a Chesterfield borough councillor for 28 years from 1987 to earlier this year. He served as mayor in 2001 to 2002 and was the council’s executive member for housing from 2011 to 2015.

Posted in About Chesterfield

Uncovering treasure at Chesterfield Canal

18th August 2015

A mini archaeological dig was carried out at Chesterfield Canal in Staveley at the weekend after volunteers unearthed the remains of the walls and floor of the original Eckington Road Bridge, built over the canal in about 1776.

Chesterfield Canal Trust says it is quite incredible the bridge has remained intact, because three other bridges and a railway line have all since been built within a few yards.

The site was roughly cleared by a mini digger, before a team of helpers set to work. There was lots of heavy clay that had to be shovelled and barrowed out, however the majority of the task was very slow and painstaking – with 24 volunteers on their hands and knees removing the last of the muck from the stonework using trowels and brushes.

As more and more was revealed, the story of how the construction was done began to emerge. It became obvious that the bridge had been constructed first and the towpath put in afterwards.

There were also lots of objects found in the mud, such as old bottles, miners’ lamp and candle holders, a gentleman’s sword stick and a clay pipe.

Of particular interest were three coins, including a George III half penny, dated 1772 or 1773. Dr Geraint Coles, archaeologist and former Chesterfield Canal Development Manager said “This coin is probably a forgery as the obverse and reverse are inverted. This would not be unusual as the county was flooded with forged copper coins during the 1770’s. What a great find and bang on date!”

Now remaining are the tasks of accurately measuring and photographing the site and washing and cataloguing the finds.

Eventually the entire site will be removed because the new, restored canal has to be lower in order to get under a nearby railway, however there is now a desire to do more such digs. A Cuckoo boat, unique to the Chesterfield Canal, is believed to be buried not far away. It is hoped that this will be next on the list.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Spireites land Spanish midfielder

17th August 2015

The Spireites are pleased to sign experienced Spanish midfielder Angel Martinez.

Known simply as ‘Angel’, the 29-year-old flew in to watch this weekend’s game at Sheffield United and has now agreed a two-year contact. He was previously with Millwall and Blackpool after starting out at Espanyol in his native country.

Chesterfield manager Dean Saunders is delighted to have landed Angel. He said: “We’ve been waiting and waiting to sign him. He’s got good pedigree having played at Espanyol and been capped by Spain at under-21 level.

“He’s good on the ball and he knows the central midfield position. With his experience of English football, I’m sure he’ll make us better.”

Angel’s signing comes soon after the capture of Lee Novak who was signed on a season-long loan from Birmingham City and made his debut in Saturday’s game at Sheffield United.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Time is running out to enter Chesterfield Marathon

17th August 2015

Runners wanting to take part in this year’s Chesterfield Marathon are being urged to sign up soon – as the deadline for entry is approaching quickly.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Friday 4 of September, meaning there are only around three weeks left for runners to secure their place.

Approximately 1,500 participants from across the UK are expected to take to the streets of Chesterfield on 20 September, running in the full marathon, half marathon and the team relay event, where four competitors take a share of the course.

The event, which has been granted an official road race licence from UK Athletics (RunBritain), will raise funds for children’s charity Kids ‘n’ Cancer, along with several other charities, including MacMillan Cancer Support, Ashgate Hospicecare, The Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity and the British Heart Foundation, as well as community groups like Chesterfield District Scouts and the Friends of Holmebrook Valley and Eastwood Park.

This year, the full and half marathon – as well as the fun run – will start and finish at Queen’s Park in Chesterfield, where an all-day party will also take place.

Andrea Hooley from the Chesterfield Marathon, said: “We would encourage people to get their entry in as soon as possible to ensure they don’t miss the deadline.

“We are excited to welcome people of all ages and abilities to Queen’s Park for what is set to be a fun and memorable day for everyone, helping to put Chesterfield on the map and boost the local economy.”

As last year, any individuals raising £250 (or teams raising £500) for Kids ‘n’ Cancer can enter the race for free.

Runners will have the option to either pay for their ‘chipped’ race bib to be posted to them – or to pick it up for free and register at the Marathon’s Head Office on the day before race day, Saturday 19 September.

Entry for the Fun Run will remain open until race day.

The male and female winners of the full marathon will receive a cash prize of £250 and free entry for next year, and the half marathon winners will get £200 and free entry next year.

To sign-up as a runner or volunteer for the Chesterfield and Derbyshire Marathon visit www.chesterfieldmarathon.org.uk.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Spireites defender signs contract extension

13th August 2015

Dan Jones is the latest Chesterfield player to sign a contract extension.

The 28-year-old defender has put pen to paper on a deal which ties him to the club until the summer of 2017.

Jones is delighted to have resolved his future. He said: “It was an easy decision as I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time since I’ve been at the club.

“I had a good pre-season this year and I’ve really been able to buy into what the new manager has brought to the club. I love his enthusiasm, the way he goes about things and I think there’s a lot to learn from him.

“Our approach hasn’t really changed too much under Dean (Saunders) and I think we’re playing football the way it should be played. That suits me and my style and now I’m looking to keep playing and help the team to do as well as possible this season.”

Spireites quartet Tommy Lee, Ian Evatt, Sam Hird and Charlie Raglan have also signed extended contracts over the summer.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Famous chefs make for a tasty line up at Chatsworth Country Fair

12th August 2015

This year’s Chatsworth Country Fair offers the chance to watch two of the most famous chefs in Britain demonstrating their favourite dishes.

Hugely popular TV presenter and chef John Torode will be appearing for the first time at the fair. John will be sharing dishes from his new book, ‘My Kind of Food’, which is due out in mid-September. He will be carrying out three demonstrations on Sunday 6 September at 11.00am; 1.30pm and 4.30pm.

Baking queen Mary Berry CBE returns for the third year after proving a huge hit with the Derbyshire crowd. Visitors will be able to see the doyenne of cooking demonstrating three of her favourite recipes from her book, ‘Mary Berry’s Absolute Favourites’ at 11.00am and 3.30pm on Saturday September 5. She will show the audience how to create her delicious Summer Ring Pavlova; Garlic Mushrooms Penne Gratin and Gavaldalax followed by book signing afterwards.

With children under 14 admitted free, the Chatsworth Country Fair is great value for a family day out with something for everyone – from the energetic Ukrainian Cossack Stunt Team to the popular Red Arrows. This year the fair takes place from 4th to 6th September. For more details visit the Chatsworth website or click here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Council pays tribute to Alderman Jim McManus

11th August 2015

Chesterfield Borough Council is paying tribute to Alderman Jim McManus, who died peacefully this morning.

Jim was a member of the council for 28 years. He was first elected in 1987 and retired at the recent elections held in May.

He served as the borough’s mayor in 2001 to 2002 and was the council’s executive member for housing from 2011 until earlier this year.

During this time, all of the council’s housing reached the Decent Homes standard for the first time and work began on building the new purpose-built Parkside older-persons’ accommodation on Stand Road.

Jim was created an honorary alderman in a special ceremony last month.

Councillor John Burrows, Chesterfield Borough Council’s leader said: “It is with great sadness that I heard of Alderman Jim McManus’s passing.
“Our thoughts, prayers and condolences are with Carol, his wife, and the family.

“I have personally lost a true friend and colleague – his advice and guidance on complex local government issues will be greatly missed by me and all his colleagues.”

Arrangements for Jim’s funeral will be announced in due course.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business

Chesterfield Champion raises £1k for Cancer Research

29th July 2015

Chesterfield Champion Paperclip Admin is very proud to have raised just over £1,000 for Cancer Research UK at this year’s Race for Life Pretty Muddy challenge at Clumber Park.

Managing Director, Anne Batty got the whole team involved in the 5k event, which involved lots of fun obstacles, all designed to get everyone as muddy as possible.

Anne said: ‘It really was a team effort on the day, getting stuck in and helping each other complete the course. The muddy obstacles really made it a fun day and we are so grateful to everyone who donated.’

Paperclip Admin supports a whole range of businesses – supplying bespoke business administration from credit control to bookkeeping together with a dedicated reception facility.

Posted in Business

Chesterfield Marathon organisers launch business clubs

29th July 2015

Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins is calling on local businesses to join the Chesterfield Marathon‘s new business clubs – the Top 50 and the Top 100.

Organisers of the annual event say the clubs will help to create a lasting legacy for the town and ensure that as much money as possible is shared with all charities involved.

Those taking up membership will enjoy a range of benefits and discounts including member networking events, VIP tickets to the marathon’s hospitality marquee on race day, tickets to the charity’s annual dinner and PR opportunities.

Mr Perkins, who is also the Shadow Small Business Secretary, said: “The Chesterfield Marathon is a fantastic event for our town, bringing real economic benefits, especially to all the shops, restaurants, hotels and bars which visitors will flock to on marathon weekend.

“I’d encourage as many businesses as possible to support the marathon by joining the business clubs, and help the race organisers to grow the event and make it a huge success each year, for the benefit of everyone living here,” added Mr Perkins.

Mike Hyman, co-founder of Kids ‘n’ Cancer and the Chesterfield Marathon said: “It is our aim to make the marathon one of the UK’s largest running events, bringing thousands of runners and visitors into our town every year.

“Research shows that for every runner between 2 and 6.5 visitors will come to the town. With well over 1,000 runners in last year’s event, the marathon brings people to Chesterfield from all over the country, Europe and indeed other parts of the world; people who would not be spending their money in Chesterfield if it were not for the marathon,” added Mr Hyman.

The Chesterfield Marathon takes place on Sunday 20th September and involves a full, team-relay, half marathon and fun run, as well as an all-day party in Queens Park.

This year the charities which will benefit include Kids ‘n’ Cancer, MacMillan (Chesterfield Cancer Centre Appeal), Ashgate Hospicecare, the British Heart Foundation, Diabetes UK and Sheffield Children’s Hospital.

Images: Portrait: Inaugural member of the Top 100 Club – Maison MesAmis – (L-R) Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins, James and Marcella Kirk, with daughter Darcy, and Mike Hyman of Chesterfield Marathon

Landscape: Inaugural member of Top 50 Club – Dunston Lodge, (L-R) Julie Harrington, Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins, Richard Harrington with sons Charlie & Fraser, Mike Hyman of Chesterfield Marathon

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield