Diplomat Blog: A Lesson Learned

Derby; first words that come to mind? Dreary? Grey? Coming from Nottingham, and with a family who are passionate about Nottingham, these were exactly my thoughts. Not the best start to a day filled with promoting Derby as a centre of regeneration and business development!

Well, it turns out I was totally wrong. After less than an hour on Marketing Derby's Diplomat course my view was changed completely! What an amazing city Derby is. One that is definitely up and coming – a place to be noted on the map!

The day started with an introduction to Derby along with a meet and greet of the follow diplomats. Scrap the awkward introductions and think laid back, informal, get to know everyone. Then it was on to the minibus and into Derby for a walking tour. Split into two groups, we were given an insight into what was happening in Derby and the various sites for redevelopment. Did you know that Derby Museum has the world's largest collection of Joseph Wright paintings? No, neither did I!

Lunch at Seven fuelled us all up for a jam-packed afternoon. First stop was the new Derby Arena where we were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the velodrome and were ever allowed track side. This was followed by a tour of the Derby Council House; a building which has its own hydroelectric power plant – definitely not behind the times! Finally, we were presented with our Diplomat certificates and goodie bags by the Mayor of Derby in the Council Chamber.

by Laura Cope – Dains Accountants