A popular high street chain's Macclesfield store has shut for good.

The joint administrators of Claire's Accessories UK have confirmed that Modella Capital has purchased the majority of the company's business and assets.

The move will see 156 Claire's stores across the UK and Ireland transferred over to the private equity firm that recently took over WHSmith's high street division, saving around 1,000 jobs.

However, this will mean that 145 stores, including the one in Macclesfield's Grosvenor Centre, will be forced to close.

Natasha Harbinson, managing director at Interpath who led the sales process, said: "Following an agreement between Modella Capital and Ames Watson in the US in relation to the Claire's brand, we are pleased to confirm a sale of the majority of Claire's UK business and assets which will ensure this popular brand will continue to trade on high streets up and down the UK.

"In addition, we are also pleased to have secured a sale of the Claire's business in Switzerland. Discussions with other interested parties continue in relation to the Claire's entities in France, Italy and Poland."

Claire's has been sold to Modella Capital (Credit: Nub News)

Claire's was placed into administration on August 13 this year after its parent company, Claire's Holdings LLC, commenced Chapter 11 proceedings in the United States.

According to Interpath, the 145 stores not included in the transaction will remain open and continue to trade while the administrators asses the options for them.

However, the Macclesfield branch has already been cleared out with a sign in the window stating: "This store is now closed. Thank you for your custom."

A sign in the window of the Macclesfield Claire's store (Credit: Nub News)

Will Wright, joint administrator and CEO of Interpath UK, said: "We'd like to express our sincere thanks to the thousands of Claire's dedicated employees, as well as suppliers and other key stakeholders, who have supported us throughout the administration process.

"Our intention is to continue to trade the remaining portfolio of stores for as long as we can, while we explore the options available."