CHESTERFIELD CHAMPION: '˜A market town nestled on the edge of the Peak District'

I started working at Ashgate Hospicecare as an apprentice in 2013. I am now the events fundraiser and organise many exciting events to raise money for patients and families across North Derbyshire.

The flagship event we organise each year is The Sparkle Night Walk, which last year attracted 2,000 wonderful walkers who raised £168,000.

This is a fantastic community event and, having lived in Chesterfield since the age of three, it is truly moving to see the community come together to support such a great cause.

Ashgate Hospicecare provides support and care, free of charge, to patients with life limiting illnesses across North Derbyshire in the in-patient unit, day hospice and in their own homes.

We also extend our support to their families during the difficult time.

1. What’s your best memory of the town?

The first time I organised the Sparkle Night Walk in 2015 and looked out to a sea of 1,500 people all dressed in pink at the start line.

It was very emotional as the majority of walkers walk in memory of loved ones and the total amount raised was an astonishing £127,000.

2. What development do you think could make the biggest difference to the town?

A 24/7 hospice at home service would give local people the choice to stay at home.

3. How would you describe Chesterfield to someone who has never visited?

Chesterfield is a market town nestled on the edge of the Peak District.

Chesterfield has a great sense of community and some brilliant events to attend and get involved with.

4. What are the positives of running a business here?

Chesterfield is such a strong community and, as a charity, we are very lucky to have such an active community that loves to get involved with fundraising.

Businesses who support Ashgate Hospicecare see the positive impact it has on staff engagement, as one in three people are touched by hospice care.

5. Who or what do you turn to in Chesterfield for business advice?

For fundraising advice, I always speak to the businesses that support the hospice, as they often have brilliant new ideas for events and challenges. For example, the Open Air Cinema which was a great success last year, with the idea coming from staff at Gilder Group.

6. Why did you choose to base your business in Chesterfield?

Ashgate Hospicecare cares for patients across the whole of North Derbyshire; the hospice building is based in Chesterfield close to the many transport links across our area. We have 16 charity shops located throughout North Derbyshire with our biggest shop, Hasland Furniture Store, being based in Chesterfield.

7. Who do you admire in the community?

I personally admire the hospice’s community nurse specialists who make visits to patients’ homes.