Casamia Homes unveils two luxury residential developments in Derbyshire and launches new website
Derbyshire-based housebuilder Casamia Homes has unveiled its new website and announced two high-quality residential developments in sought-after locations across the county. Their latest schemes, in Allestree and Dalbury Lees, will offer a very different style of home, uniting Casamia’s focus on building quality houses in beautiful locations. The Firs in Allestree is a collection of ten executive, detached family homes and is Casamia’s first development in 2026. Located off Woodlands Lane, positioned between Allestree and Quarndon and with direct access to Allestree Park, The Firs is nestled within a mature and established setting. Carefully designed to reflect its surroundings, Casamia will deliver high-specification interiors with a wide choice of finishes and upgrades from Casamia’s premium suppliers and partners. All properties will feature double garages, electric vehicle charging points and solar panels. The homes have been designed for buyers who are seeking generous, well-designed large family homes in one of Derby’s most desirable residential locations. Demolition work at the site is now complete and groundworks are underway. The homes will be launched for sale around Easter 2026, with prices expected to start from around £850,000, with completions scheduled from November. In parallel with The Firs, and just a few miles away in Dalbury Lees, Casamia Homes will also start work on a highly distinctive development called Black Fir Farm. This scheme comprises three exceptional new-build barn-style homes which have been individually designed to create a striking and yet sympathetic addition to the rural setting. Key features include contemporary barn architecture, seamless bronze cladding and extensive glazing to maximise light and take in the views. The homes are being designed as statement properties and will combine bold modern styes with refined detailing and premium specifications throughout. These large and private plots are just a short walk from the local pub and restaurant, The Cow, and prices are expected to start in a similar region to The Firs. The sales launch is also planned for Easter. George Tyler, Land and Sales Director at Casamia Homes, said: “These two developments perfectly reflect the direction of Casamia Homes – design-led, high-quality homes in exceptional locations. We have spent a considerable amount of time securing the right sites and achieving the right planning outcomes and we are delighted to now be moving forward with our first two schemes. “Interest has already been very strong and we are very excited to bring both developments to market in 2026.” Casamia Homes has relaunched its website so prospective purchasers can register their interest in either of the developments. This will allow interested buyers to receive early release information and an invitation to both launch events. The business was established in 2021 by former directors and senior team members of Radleigh Homes, following its acquisition by Redrow. Since then, the company has focused on acquiring prime sites across Derbyshire, delivering thoughtfully designed, high quality homes in carefully selected locations. For more information about both sites, visit Casamia Homes CASAMIA HOMES ENQUIRIES: Danielle Tyler, Marketing Director Tel: 01332 504695 Email: hello@casamiahomes.co.uk Website: www.casamiahomes.co.uk/ 00
THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICE
Cahoots NI and Buxton Opera House, in association with New 42 and the New Victory Theater, present The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, a visually spectacular family theatre experience blending live magic, original music, and imaginative storytelling. This new production will run at Buxton Opera House from Tue 2 – Sat 6 Jun (Gala Night: Thu 4 Jun), followed by a New York engagement. Casting to be announced. Tickets on sale now. After a successful development run in Belfast in 2024, where audiences praised the production’s magical effects and engaging performances, the show returns in 2026 as a fully realised production. Set in a world of enchanted forests, snowy skies, and dancing northern lights, the show follows Gunda, an ordinary schoolgirl who discovers an extraordinary power hidden within and must face fierce competition for the chance to become The Sorcerer’s Apprentice. Cahoots NI Artistic Director, and The Sorcerer’s Apprentice director, Paul Mc Eneaney said: The company is “incredibly excited to be welcoming families into The Sorcerer’s Apprentice as it embarks on its next chapter,” adding that at the heart of the work is “the shared magic of storytelling, celebrating imagination, bravery, and the joy of discovering the extraordinary within ourselves.” Mc Eneaney also highlighted the importance of the ongoing partnership with Buxton Opera House, noting that following last year’s collaboration on The Vanishing Elephant, the creative team is “delighted to be returning and continuing to build on this partnership,” which has helped shape The Sorcerer’s Apprentice into “an even more visually striking and immersive theatrical experience, bringing magic, music, and illusion to the stage in new and exciting ways.” He added that audiences remain central to the production, explaining that as families step into Gunda’s world, they are invited to feel “part of the adventure from the very first moment,” and that the company “can’t wait to see how audiences experience this journey across the 2026 tour.” This production of The Sorcerer’s Apprentice is made possible through the generous support of Arts Council England and Culture Ireland. Box Office www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 01298 72190 Water Street, Buxton, Derbyshire, SK17 6XN Tickets from £25.50 Age guidance: 6+ 00
Triple appointment for growing Derby-based PR agency
PR and communications agency Nielsen McAllister has announced the appointment of three new members of staff in support of its rapidly growing client portfolio. The new hires come as the business continues to deliver award winning PR, social media and digital marketing campaigns for a diverse range of businesses, including recent client wins in the property, forestry and packaging sectors. Following stints as Head of Creative and Associate Creative Director at award-winning agencies Fabric Social and SocialChain, Beth Blance joins the business as Account Director. With experience across Business to Business (B2B) PR, social media and influencer activation, Beth brings a breadth of communications experience to the role. “Nielsen McAllister has a reputation as a B2B agency that delivers outstanding, boundary pushing work for its clients, and when the opportunity to join arose, I knew it was the kind of business I wanted to be a part of. I look forward to building on its already substantial communications offering and helping to drive the business forward,” said Beth. Joining alongside Beth is Ellie Smith, a University of Birmingham graduate with a BSc in Business Management and an MA in International Security, who will be supporting clients across PR and content as Account Executive. Ellie added, “Joining Nielsen McAllister as the agency continues to grow its client base is such an exciting opportunity to learn across a variety of B2B industries. I’m really looking forward to being part of such an experienced team and contributing to client projects.” Digital Marketing Apprentice Brooke Townley-Jones rounds out the triple appointment, following in the footsteps of a number of PR professionals who gained their marketing qualifications with the help of Nielsen McAllister. “This apprenticeship is a fantastic way to kickstart my career following my degree. It’s a unique opportunity to learn new skills in an area I’m passionate about, gain practical experience and start building a career in digital marketing,” said Brooke. Nielsen McAllister has been a leading B2B PR agency in Derbyshire for over 35 years and, with this latest round of appointments, is well positioned to continue its strong growth trajectory into 2026. Managing Director, Simon Wildash, said: “We are delighted to welcome Beth, Ellie and Brooke to the Nielsen McAllister team. As the agency continues to grow, their expertise in B2B PR and communications will strengthen the quality of content we provide to our clients, supporting the ongoing expansion of our portfolio.” Visit the Nielsen McAllister website to read more. 00
DRIVERS REMINDED NOT TO PARK ON MARKET PLACE AS EVENTS BEGIN
Drivers in Ashbourne are being reminded not to park on the town’s Market Place, as events begin following the recent restoration and pedestrianisation of the area. Parking tickets are being issued to those who ignore the new restrictions. As part of the UK Government funded Ashbourne Reborn transformation programme, Grade II listed surfaces have been repaired and restored, new street furniture added and trees planted to bring much-needed greenery into the town centre. On 31 January, Ashbourne Makers Market moved to its new regular home on the Market Place, and this is expected to be followed by a series of both new and familiar events throughout the year. The programme is being developed by local partners including the Town Team and Ashbourne Town Council, and will build on popular events like StreetFest and the Lantern Parade. Despite signage informing drivers that the Market Place is no longer a car park, a small number of vehicles are persisting in using the pedestrianised area. The District Council are reminding drivers that enforcement is in place, and those drivers that continue to ignore parking restrictions risk receiving a parking ticket. A spokesperson for the District Council said: “Representatives of local business and the community have been clear since the Government funding bid was submitted that they want the Market Place to be used as a public space and for events. To make sure this can happen, we will be enforcing the new parking restrictions and drivers risk receiving a ticket if they park on the Market Place. “There is plenty of alternative parking in Ashbourne, as well short-stay spaces, including two disabled bays, around the edges of the Market Place for visits to local businesses.” Nearby car parks including the Cattle Market Car Park, Ashbourne DE6 1ED (0.2 miles from the Market Place), reduced to a flat rate of £2 per day, Shawcroft Car Park, Ashbourne, DE6 1GD (0.2 miles from the Market Place) and Bus Station Car Park, Ashbourne, DE6 1BW (0.3 miles from the Market Place). The Highways and Public Realm project is transforming the historic town centre with wider pavements, clearer pedestrian crossings and improved public spaces. It is led by the County Council, with contractors Galliford Try carrying out works on their behalf. A second major project to develop The Link Centre, led by Ashbourne Methodist Church, is due to open mid-2026. The new community hub will host a series of cultural events throughout the year as well as providing a range of new services to residents, businesses and visitors in Ashbourne. Derbyshire Dales District Council is the Accountable Body for Ashbourne Reborn, Derbyshire County Council is responsible for delivering the Highways and Public Realm project and Ashbourne Methodist Church the Link Community Hub. These partners work in collaboration with Ashbourne Town Team, Ashbourne Town Council and AshCom who brought forward proposals, identified opportunities and raised match funding for the original bid. To receive email updates, sign up for the newsletter at the District Council website www.derbyshiredales.gov.uk/enewsreg (tick the box for Ashbourne Reborn), or visit the Ashbourne Reborn website www.ashbournereborn.co.uk for the latest news, FAQs and detailed information about the project. 00
STAFF AT DERBY’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED FAMILY-OWNED FUNERAL DIRECTORS WRITES SUPPORT BOOK FOR CHILDREN
A book to support children when they lose a loved one has been written by a member of staff at Derby’s longest established family-owned funeral directors. Fay Bloor, Bereavement Support Coordinator and trained counsellor at Wathall’s, has published ‘Missing Someone Special’ which gently explains to youngsters what it means when someone dies. The beautiful book, illustrated by Michael Ashley, talks about what it means when people die, what grief is, and gives information about what happens at both a burial and a cremation. It also highlights the importance of sharing emotions following the death of a loved one and is a resource often used by families. Fay said: “As part of Children’s Mental Health Week in February, it is always a good time to showcase what resources are available to children and their families and my book, Missing Someone Special, is one. “It is an activity book that allows children to express their feelings through words and pictures and at the same time, support parents who are helping to navigate their children through a difficult grief journey.” Children’s Mental Health Week runs from Monday, February 9, and is an annual mental health awareness week launched by children’s mental health charity, Place2Be. The theme this month is ‘This is My Place’ and sets out to empower, equip and give a voice to all children and young people in the UK. Fay said: “From my experience, sometimes bereaved children feel like they don’t belong because they are going through something none of their friends have been through. “I decided to write Missing Someone Special to specifically help children who find themselves coping with grief and the difficult feelings that they are experiencing.” In the book there is space for youngsters to write down their happy memories of the loved one they have lost, attach a photograph or draw their picture, and write a letter telling their loved one about things that have happened in the days since they last saw them. As well as this book, Fay has also written ‘Missing You’, a support book for adults who are navigating their way through bereavement and grief. Fay said: “It was lockdown 2020, when I started writing the first book. It had been an idea in my head for a while but time at home gave me the space to put pen to paper. “I really enjoyed the process and it was brilliant to work with Michael, who did such a wonderful job of illustrating it.” Both books have been published as part of Wathall’s award-winning Dandelions Bereavement Support service. Fay runs four free meetings a month and offers one-to-one counselling sessions in Derby. Fay added: “These books have become an extremely useful resource for people and we have sold several hundred at Wathall’s. “I feel really proud that I have been able to support people through my books.” Fay is currently working on a third book and this time she will focus on writing about those who are facing the end of their life. It will offer comfort, practical advice and guidance on making the most of the remaining time. To buy a book, visit https://dandelionssupport.etsy.com 00
Celebrate World Book Day with Derby Book Festival
Derby Book Festival is celebrating World Book Day with a BIG party in Derby Market Hall on Saturday 28 February. The BIG Derby World Book Day Party will feature authors, illustrators and storytellers and offer opportunities for families to celebrate books together. Entry to the Market Hall is FREE but World Book Day workshops are ticketed and go on sale online today, Tuesday 3 February at 10am. from https://www.derbybookfestival.co.uk/whats-on/events Every year children celebrate World Book Day in their schools – this year’s date is Thursday 5 March. Following the success of Derby Book Festival’s first World Book Day Celebration last year, we are welcoming families to join us to celebrate together with activities aimed at children 0-12 to enjoy with their adults. 2026 has been designated at the National Year of Reading and Derby Book Festival is one of their key supporters and will be holding events across the year to support their objectives. A mini-family festival in a day, the event will celebrate everything book-related. There will be a full line-up of fun activities and storytelling designed to entertain and delight. We will also be holding a Raffle to win one of three sets of children’s books. Some of the highlights include: Some of the stall holders will also be organising their own free activities on their stalls. The event is FREE but Derby Book Festival is suggesting a donation of £3 from those who are able to support them as a charity, as well as supporting the World Book Day charity. Both of these charities are working to improve literacy rates and the enjoyment of books, by ‘Bringing Books To Life’. Sian Hoyle, Festival Director for Derby Book Festival said: “World Book Day promotes a love of reading, encourages literacy and provides access to books for people of all ages and backgrounds. It fosters creativity and imagination, especially among young children, and Derby Book Festival is proud to be supporting the initiative with The BIG Derby World Book Day Party. “It is through events and reading initiatives that we can help to bridge literacy gaps and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy and benefits of reading.” Derby Book Festival has a strong programme of events for children, families and schools as part of its community programme, in addition to its two annual festivals, with its Summer Festival held from 22 – 31 May 2026. Each year it organises Meet the Author events for Derby and Derbyshire primary and secondary schools, which last year reached over 9,000 pupils. The two primary events are held at Derby Theatre and live streamed to around 60 schools across the city and county. This year’s Meet the Author events will include the current Children’s Laureate, Frank Cottrell Boyce and author/illustrator Joe Todd- Stanton. Derby Book Festival is funded by Arts Council England and the University of Derby, with additional sponsorship from local businesses. 00
Thousands needed for Derby’s Bridge the Gap to improve children’s mental health
A Derby organisation that supports children with early intervention and emotional education has set out plans to raise £50,000 to help families in the city. Bridge the Gap, in St Mary’s Gate, wants a Family Support Fund so children can access free support sessions with expert staff. Jennifer Wyman, founder and director of the award-winning CIC, says turning families away who need support is heartbreaking. The 47-year-old, who has worked with children and families for more than 20 years, said: “It really upsets me when we find out that a child can’t access sessions at Bridge the Gap because the family can’t afford it.” “Early intervention should be available to every young person who needs it – and Derby is no exception. Emotional health has to be a priority for our children, so the Family Support Fund will reach children who need help to understand and navigate their emotions before they reach crisis point.” Jennifer and Nikki Webster, director and clinical lead at Bridge the Gap, want to raise £50,000 at a fundraising gala on Thursday, March 26, at Derby’s Valliant Live. The formal black-tie event will be hosted by TV personality Baasit Siddiqui and includes a luxury three-course dinner. Special guests, Nigel Owens, one of the world’s greatest rugby referees, and Sean Heydon, magician and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist, will entertain guests. Headline sponsor, Jaguar Land Rover, will give away a unique driving experience for 10 people in a raffle on the night and entries from Bridge the Gap’s Walk of Hope art competition will be showcased at the event. Twelve winning pieces of art will be displayed at Derby QUAD at the end of April in the Participation Studio. Nikki, 39, said: “Lack of funds should not be a reason to turn a child away, but when we are already stretched financially, we simply have no choice. “Jen and I believe that young people deserve the help to build authentic, emotional resilience and to protect their mental health through life’s ups and downs. With more money, we can ensure that every child in Derby feels hope. “Children in Derby are struggling more than ever. Statistics show that children as young as eight are self-harming and struggling with suicidal thoughts. We need help – and we are asking for it now. “We want to bring Derby together and show these children and their families that we care and we can help.” Bridge the Gap set up in 2017 and supports hundreds of children and their families every month to reach positive long-term goals. Support groups and one-to-one sessions help children to build authentic emotional resilience and protects their mental health through life’s challenges. Jennifer said: “Emotional literacy support isn’t a one-off lesson – it is something we need to embed. As a city, we need to show up for these young people. We need a legacy so we can help families and welcome them to Bridge the Gap. “Please support us and come to this amazing event – we really need to support children’s mental health in our wonderful building. Bridge the Gap is more committed than ever to being a sustainable, long-term service that helps children know they matter, they are loved and they are not alone.” For more information about Bridge the Gap, visit: https://www.jwbridgethegap.com/ 00
ASHBOURNE SCHOOL CHILDREN PLACE TIME CAPSULE IN TRANSFORMED MILLENNIUM SQUARE
Pupils from Ashbourne’s St Oswald’s primary have helped place a time capsule in Millennium Square to mark the transformation of the area as part of the UK Government funded Ashbourne Reborn regeneration programme. The time capsule contains a commemorative tea towel with self-portraits of every pupil in the 2025 academic year, which was made to celebrate the 200th anniversary of St Oswald’s primary school. It also contains a number of items contributed by Ashbourne Town Council, including a letter from Mayor Councillor Caroline Cooper, and a compilation of information from Ashbourne Historical Centre outlining the history of Millennium Square. It also contains a programme of events that have taken place in Ashbourne town centre during 2025. Watched by Ashbourne Reborn partners representing local businesses and the community, District Councillor David Hughes, Chair of the Ashbourne Reborn Programme Board and Caroline Cooper, Mayor of Ashbourne Town Council spoke about the historical significance of Millennium Square. Ashbourne Reborn contractors Galliford Try then helped the school children place the time capsule under paving stones in the square to mark the completion of the transformation. Part of the Highways and Public Realm project, led by the County Council, plans for Millennium Square were developed by Ashbourne Town Council. As part of the Ashbourne Reborn regeneration works, which took place during 2025, the area off St John Street has been transformed. Existing brick walls dating back to the 1960s and the dilapidated ‘elderly person’s rest room’ built in 1971, have been replaced with a planted area of stepped seating made with locally sourced stone to provide a shared community space which wraps around the restored Millennium Clock. 00
Family days out with the National Trust this February half term
From seasonal crafts and activities to outdoor trails and winter wildlife, there’s lots to keep young explorers busy this half term at the National Trust’s places in Derbyshire and the Peak District. With miles of gardens, parkland and countryside to explore on those crisp winter days and indoor activities for when the rain sets in, there’s plenty to do, whatever the February weather brings. The National Trust’s cosy tearooms offer warming treats and kids lunch packs, and the shops have lovely selections of pocket money toys for little ones to browse. Here’s a round-up of the half term events and activities at the National Trust’s places near you. To find out more visit, http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk. Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire Half term has never been more ‘love’ly! Explore the exciting Elizabethan themes of St Valentines through outdoor play and crafts. Expect play activities in the Stableyard inspired by themes of connection, pairs, gratitude and love such as ‘Match the pairs’, Connect Four, create your own sonnet in our blackboard den, and rustle up a valentine’s feast in the mud kitchen. Find out more information: February Half Term | National Trust Calke Abbey, Foremark & Staunton Harold Discover hidden worlds this February half-term with themed trails inspired by the book ‘Wonder World: Earth’ written by Ben Lerwill and illustrated by Xuan Le. From 14-22 February, hunt for minibeasts and uncover fascinating facts about worms, and continue the adventure by visiting all three properties for unique activities at each. For avid bookworms, join a storytelling session in the Riding School at Calke to hear the story brought to life. Sessions include creative crafts and colouring, and can be booked online via Calke’s website, with SEND-friendly sessions available in a more relaxed environment, as well as shorter sessions for under-5s. ‘Wonder World: Earth’, published by Nosy Crow in collaboration with the National Trust, can be purchased onsite at Calke, so the fun can continue long beyond half-term. Longshaw Estate, nr Sheffield, Peak District. Bring your curiosity, eagle eyes and a sense of adventure to uncover secrets about the fantastic bird species of Longshaw, on The Bird Box Detectives Trail. Find 6 secret bird boxes hidden around the estate. Lift the lids to hear their calls, solve the puzzles, and tick off each bird as you go. £3 per trail sheet. On 22 February Longshaw’s rangers host a very special event; Family Bird Box Building – to celebrate National Nest Box week. Using simple hand tools, each family or group will be instructed on how to build their own bird box to take home. £15 per bird box. Special family crafts celebrating the birds of Longshaw are also being hosted on 18 and 19 February, at Longshaw’s Moorland Discovery Centre. Suitable for children aged 4-11, £8 per child. Find out more here Ilam Park, nr Ashbourne, Peak District. Get ready for a feather-filled adventure, between 14 – 22 February, on the Bird Box Detectives Trail. Secret bird boxes are hidden around Ilam Park and it’s your job to find them. Each box has a clue about the amazing bird that lives there, on this treasure hunt – but with more feathers! £3 per trail sheet, with a prize at the end! Fly down to the Dovedale National Nature Reserve for the Big Bird Count, from 14 – 21 February. You can climb Thorpe Cloud to search the skies or follow the river Dove to spot birds along the valley. With every £3 trail sheet you’ll get your own DIY binoculars and help count the different species you see, to add to the Big Dovedale Bird Count Board. Learn About the Birds Pop Up station: learn about the fascinating birdlife of the White Peak, on 21 February in Milldale. Drop into the National Trust information barn to meet our team of guides. Share your sightings on our community spotter’s board as you explore this beautiful part of the Peak District. Find out more here Kedleston Hall, Derby Enjoy a winter wander at Kedleston this half-term and discover willow wildlife sculptures along the way. The Short Walk has welcomed some new friends for all to see. Be sure to say ‘hello’! Available 14 – 22 February, 9am until 4pm. The Children’s Country House at Sudbury February Half term: Challenge your friends and family to a classic board game in the Parlour, perfect for a rainy afternoon. Solve the mystery in a game of ‘Sudbury Sleuth’, collect the clues as you explore the rooms in the Hall. From February half term onwards: Take a trip down memory lane and re-visit favourite video games from the past in the Museum of Childhood. Discover the wonders of soil science along the nature trail in Wellies Wood inspired by the Nosy Crow book ‘Wonder World: Earth’ 00
WICKED Messy Play Party
We know the kids have not long gone back to school but half term isn’t that far away, folks! So plan ahead and grab a ticket to join us for a WICKED half term this February, all about magic and friendship WICKED MESSY PLAY – 18 FEB Green and pink WICKED themed messy play with a variety of natural sensory stations and crafting activities set up! WICKED OUTDOOR CINEMA – 20 FEB Bring your camping chairs and blankets as we snuggle up under the canopy to watch & sing along to WICKED with pizza, popcorn and pink & green drinks. Book now! Future you will thank you 00
