The town is a step closer to getting help from the Heritage Lottery Fund after its regional head called in.

Macclesfield MP David Rutley invited Susan Williams, chairwoman of the north west committee, to meet some of the town’s dedicated heritage champions.

The Heritage Lottery Fund invests in local projects to help sustain and transform local heritage.

Mr Rutley said: "We have a perfect opportunity with the regeneration to help the town and fill the empty shops, but at the same time it has to be linked with heritage.

"What’s so refreshing about Macclesfield is that everyone wants to see it revitalised and moved forward.

"The real driving force behind it is the community and the most impressive thing that’s happened because of that is the revival of the Barnaby Festival."

Jane Munro, who is responsible for the monthly Treacle Market, was invited to meet Susan Williams along with Eric Rogers and Val Lloyd, from the Silk Heritage Trust, trustee Francis Graham-Smith, and Caroline Simpson, head of regeneration at Cheshire East council.

Eric Rogers said: "I think it’s fantastic to have Susan come along and show her what we’re doing here.

"It’s a great opportunity."

As well as providing advice on funding, Ms Williams said: "There is a big opportunity with the town centre redevelopment to help recover it, but we need to make sure the heritage is central. I think what the officers and community are is very impressive and I hope that some of the tips that I’ve given them may help them release some funds."