One of Macclesfield's most unique attractions has called on the public to back the town's independent businesses.

The Viking Axe recently took to social media to urge Maxonians to get out and support the high street.

This follows the closures of several neighbouring businesses, including The Snowgoose pub on Sunderland Street and The Clayrooms, a pottery studio on Park Green.

"The reality is that the current climate is brutal for independent venues, and right now, the town needs your support more than ever," read a Facebook post shared by The Viking Axe.

"To be completely honest, our footfall has dropped to a level that simply isn't sustainable.

"We want to keep providing a place where you can let off steam, celebrate with friends, and try something a little different right here in Macclesfield, but we can't survive with empty lanes.

"If you want to keep independent entertainment alive in our town, if you've been meaning to try axe throwing, or if you simply want to support a local business, we need you. Every single booking makes a real difference and helps keep our doors open."

The Viking Axe opened on Charlotte Street in 2019, with the longhouse-style venue heavily themed to transport you back in time.

Unlike many other axe-throwing centres, they use replica Viking era axes to offer a truly authentic experience.

It is a family-run affair, with Danae Mayo joined by her parents, Andy and Vanessa.

Danae said: "I personally believe the negativity on social media isn't helping our town.

"We have a lot of amazing small, independent, businesses in Macclesfield but due to high rent costs in the town centre, most of these places are on the outskirts of the town because they need to keep running costs as low as possible.

"We have been open since 2019 and we have got five star reviews across the board, so we know that people enjoy visiting us.

"A lot of our customers visit because of their friends or family telling them about us, so word of mouth is a massive help to small businesses.

"I don't think people understand how much of an impact people can have just by telling someone about somewhere they have been that they loved.

"That small action can help keep these small independent businesses running."