SLIDESHOW: Wilson and players welcomed to Chatsworth for Spireites 150th gala ball

Wilson was joined by Town CEO Chris Turner along with the likes of Ian Evatt, Sam Hird, Gboly Ariyibi, Dan Gardner and Ched Evans among the 150 guests who attended the gala ball.

Also present were Derbyshire Times competition winners Tina Jones of Matlock and Bramley Vale’s Karen Fitz-Patrick.

Speaking in the Painted Hall, The Duke – Chesterfield FC’s patron – outlined why the club and Saltergate played such a big part in his youth.

He also recalled the special day out at Old Trafford for the FA Cup Semi-Final, when staff from the Estate went en masse to support the club.

Guests were entertained by electronic violinist Alexandra, The Chesterfield Male Voice Choir and, after dinner, The Rat Pack Trio.

Lifelong Town fan, Derbyshire Times correspondent and Peak FM matchday summariser Phil Tooley also recited an ode to the club.

Chesterfield’s recently appointed head of commercial and market, Richard Nichols, heralded the ball as a success.

He said: “The evening was a great success and I have received some excellent feedback from guests.

“It was an honour to meet the Duke of Devonshire and I would like to thank His Grace for a memorable address.

“I would also like to thank the artists who helped to make it a special night and event sponsor G F Tomlinson for their valued support.”