Discovery of treacle tap casts doubt on origins of Macclesfield's nickname

By Matthew Hancock-Bruce 1st Apr 2025

A treacle tap has been discovered in Macclesfield (Credit: Nub News)
A treacle tap has been discovered in Macclesfield (Credit: Nub News)

Treacle Town has a new meaning.

A tap pouring the sweet dark syrup has been uncovered in Macclesfield.

The stunning discovery was made this morning (April 1) by metal detectorist, Michael Taker.

"I couldn't believe my eyes," he said.

"I've found Roman ruins, Viking weaponry and fossils dating back millions of years but none of that compares to this!

"I'm hoping to start jarring it up to sell at Treacle Market!"

Macclesfield's Treacle Town nickname had been thought to result from an historic incident (Credit: Nub News)

Until now it had been thought that Macclesfield's Treacle Town nickname had been in reference to a centuries-old accident.

It was suggested that a horse-drawn wagon overturned, spilling its load of treacle onto Hibel Road, with the poor gathering to scoop it off the cobbles.

However, this discovery has thrown that understanding out of the window.

Local historian April Foley said: "This changes everything!"

The location of the tap is not being disclosed, with April and her team due to a complete a comprehensive survey of the area.

She added: "We need to figure out where this treacle is coming from.

"Early indications suggest it connects to an underground cavern, maybe even a golden syrup mine!"

If you've read this far then firstly, sorry. Secondly, I'm sure you've worked it out already but this is an April Fools! I'm afraid there's no treacle tap... that we know of.

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