Mural of Joy Division's Ian Curtis unveiled in Macclesfield
The Love Will Tear Us Apart singer was raised in the town
A mural of Joy Division frontman Ian Curtis has been unveiled in Macclesfield.
It's been funded by Cheshire East Council and is on the side of a building on Mill Street, across from the bus station.
The post-punk icon was brought up in Macclesfield, attending King's School. One of his first experiences with music was taking part in a church choir in the town.
Curtis died in 1980 and his ashes are buried in Macclesfield Cemetary.
Cheshire East Councillor Nick Mannion said: “Before today, I spoke about how perhaps this beautiful mural has been somewhat overdue but now that I’m here seeing it for myself for the first time, I can say without any doubt that it has truly been worth the wait.
“As I’ve said previously, I am a huge fan of Joy Division – the cultural significance of the band and Ian stretches well beyond my home town of Macclesfield. This is such a proud moment, I’m feeling very emotional about it right now.”
Manchester street artist Akse was behind the project, having previously painted Captain Sir Tom Moore and Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford.
He said: “Although I’ve been working on murals most of my life, it’s still always an incredible feeling to get to the end of the journey – well the end of my journey at least.
"Now it’s time for the people of Macclesfield to enjoy the mural, as I know how much Ian meant to so many of them.”
The project is part of onoing efforts to redevelop and revitalise parts of the town centre.