A new initiative is looking to bring together local businesses, philanthropists and residents to support charities and community organisations across Macclesfield.

Tim Roca MP has teamed up with Cheshire Community Foundation to launch the Macclesfield Fund.

With the aim of building a £150,000 fund by 2027, the Macclesfield Fund is designed to provide a lasting source of funding for grassroots organisations tackling poverty, isolation, health inequalities and improving opportunities for local people across Macclesfield and the surrounding communities.

Mr Roca said: "When I first met Cheshire Community Foundation, I knew this was something Macclesfield should have.

"Our town and surrounding communities are full of generous people and successful businesses that want to give something back.

"The Macclesfield Fund gives them a lasting way to invest directly in the place they call home.

"I wanted to bring people together around a shared vision for Macclesfield, and that's exactly what we've done."

The idea for the fund came after Mr Roca met with Cheshire Community Foundation and recognised the opportunity to bring its successful community funding model to Macclesfield.

Working with the foundation, Mr Roca helped bring together local supporters and secure the backing needed to establish the initiative, including support from Harish Sodha and Sarah Burrows.

Their generosity has enabled the appointment of a dedicated fund development manager to help establish and grow the fund.

Mr Roca added: "The response to the launch has been fantastic, with substantial donations already pledged towards the fund.

"I'm particularly grateful to Harish Sodha and Sarah Burrows for helping us get this project off the ground. Their support has enabled us to establish the Fund locally and begin building something that I hope will make a real difference for generations to come.

"This is about creating a lasting legacy for Macclesfield and the surrounding communities. Every donation will help local charities and community organisations continue their incredible work and ensure more people have the opportunity to thrive."

The official launch brought together business leaders, charities, community organisations and public sector partners from across the area.

The event secured more than £30,000 in initial donations, with further contributions continuing to come in following the launch.

Mel Sproston, CEO of Cheshire Community Foundation, said: "The Macclesfield Fund is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when local people come together to invest in their community.

"We're excited to work alongside Tim and our supporters to create lasting impact for local charities and the people they serve."

To find out more about the Macclesfield Fund or to make a donation, visit https://cheshirecommunityfoundation.org.uk/macclesfield-fund/.