THE SNOW may have brought chaos to Macclesfield's roads and left businesses suffering – but for some traders the big freeze has been a blast.

With Maxonians trying to keep warm, stay on the move - and escape the cold - many shops are doing better than ever.

Sales of outdoor clothing have soared since the temperatures plummeted, with residents rushing out to buy hats, scarves and gloves.

Jessica Hazlewood, assistant manager of Fat Face, on Mill Street, Macclesfield, said: "We have totally sold out of all scarves and hats.

"A lot of men and boys have come in off the street who were not prepared for the cold snap asking for hats and gloves and then putting them on straight away in the shop. We've also seen an increase in the sales of boots."

In addition to regular winter motoring essentials, such as anti-freeze and wiper blades, Macclesfield's Halfords store, on Churchill Way, saw a strong demand for emergency items like torches, de-icer and car batteries ahead of last week's big freeze as motorists tried to prepare for the snow.

Manager Susan Read said: "The Saturday before Christmas we were number one in the area in terms of sales but then we were bottom of the table over night because people couldn't get out due to the heavy snow," she said.

"Most people who managed to get out mainly wanted snow chains or sledges. Unfortunately our supplier sold out the Tuesday before Christmas," said Susan.

Village shops also saw a surge in trade, with customers stuck at home flocking to their nearest store.

But other businesses have been hampered by the bad weather.

Lorne Chadwick, who owns Danebridge Fisheries, in Wincle said he was forced to close his business last week due to the state of the roads.

He said: "The main fishing lake is struggling and I've had to go out and smash the ice even though we had the aerator on it.

"We've just been fighting a losing battle."

And it was less profitable for supermarket Tesco after more than 30 staff members did not turn in for work last Tuesday (January 5).

Virginie Waldron, manager at Tesco on Hibel Road, Macclesfield said: "Perhaps around 30 staff didn't turn in on the Tuesday, but it wasn't a problem because a lot of customers couldn't get out either."

But Andy Ireland, manager of Sainsbury's, on Cumberland Street, in Macclesfield said: "Our staff have been absolutely brilliant. Some worked at Wilmslow if they lived nearer to that store and vice-versa so

it worked out well for us.

"There was some panic buying of salt, bread, milk and, strangely enough, canned meats."

Staff who didn't turn up will have to take the time off as holiday.

Computer gaming whizzes at Macclesfield firm Matmi said half their workforce did not make it in following the heavy snow on Tuesday.

Jeff Coghlan, manager of the Dukes Court company, said: "Those who did make it to work have been able to get their heads down and catch up because we haven't had any callers.

"Overall it has been really beautiful and has really cheered us all up here."

The icy weather is also well timed as the website design company has just released its wintry Ten Pin Crazy Golfing 3D online game.

Players have to knock down as many of the 'Pinguins' as they can while navigating ten levels of snowdrifts, windmills, whales and other icy obstacles.

"This is probably the most fun gamers will have this winter without taking their coat and mittens off!," said Jeff.