KNUTSFORD and Wilmslow have been given a geographical makeover, with new maps detailing their ‘underground’ network.

The novelty designs, by self-confessed ‘map nerd’ and history enthusiast Mike Cochrane, meticulously link streets and landmarks in the style of Harry Beck’s iconic ‘London Underground’ linear map.

The colourful designs are so well-researched – with each map taking around a month to formulate – that Mike has regularly had to tell customers that they are not, in fact, real representations of a secret Cheshire tube system.

The 50-year-old HR expert from Lymm said: “Map nerds like me are interested in the London Underground map because it’s a design classic.

“I did one of Lymm about two years ago, and thought I might do a few more. I ended up selling a couple of hundred, so then I realised that they were only going to sell in Lymm. My next step was to do football maps – I would rejig it and put players and trophies on it.

“I do artisan markets as well, so wherever I go – to make it a bit more relevant and interesting – I do geographical ones for that area.

“It’s all a bit of a laugh but because it’s an iconic design that’s why people like them.

“I have always been interested in maps, like a lot of blokes are I suppose. It’s not something I would be prepared to admit down the pub but it’s true. That, combined with an interest in sport, was a good way to get started and put it all together.”

With Knutsford and Wilmslow now firmly ‘on the map’, Mike has also charted the histories of Manchester City and United – with all variations for sale at his online store tubeart.co.uk as well as at Makers Markets and the Christmas markets near Spinningfields.

Having kick-started the venture during his spare time while freelancing two years ago, the business has now gone full-time with Mike – of no trained artistic background – quitting his job to focus on researching and designing.

He said: “They do well. I do it full-time now, and there is a never-ending supply of teams of towns so I have always got stuff on the go.

“I had been thinking idly on it for years but always thought people wouldn’t want to look at them. I went for it and it’s turned out well.”

The Knutsford maps include creative licence additions such as Knutsford Airport, Tatton waterboat service and Mobberley light rail system.

The description reads: “After the infamous HS2 project has finished then the Department of Transport intends to begin work on a number of new “underground rapid transit” projects of which Knutsford is intended to be one of the first.”