AN axe-throwing couple are set to launch one of the region’s first dedicated indoor axe-throwing centres.

Partners Carl Howe and Kathryn Brown have requested planning permission to set up Valhalla North Axe Throwing at Aycliffe Business Park, in Newton Aycliffe.

The pair first tried axe-throwing in Sheffield and decided they would create the centre with help from friend and shareholder Sam Nicholson – after discussing the venture over a pint at the pub.

The trio came up with the centre name in honour of Mr Howe's role as the Viking king at Kynren, in Bishop Auckland.

Miss Brown also works as a volunteer at Kynren – an outdoor performance, which takes audiences through 2,000 years of history through the eyes of Arthur, the son of a mining family.

Mr Howe said: “We just decided to go for it – I think we are one of the first axe-throwing centres in County Durham and want it to be a place people can come and have fun.

"We're hoping to get a mobile pub there so after people have took part in the axe-throwing they can have a nice pint."

If planning is accepted, the centre will allow potential lumberjacks to throw axes at targets, attempting to hit the bulls eye or as near as possible.

The pair said the centre would have four lanes – two double lanes and two single lanes – and the axe-throwing area would be fully clad and protected.

All three business owners would work at the site as axe-throwing instructors and are keen to work with mental health charities in the area to promote the mental benefits of axe-throwing.

Miss Brown said: “There’s something axe-throwing gives you that other sports and activities just don’t.

"It’s easy to learn, not too physically demanding, a tonne of fun and a huge stress reliever, not to mention a great social activity.”

The planning proposal outlines each lane would hold up to 12 people and the team would set up a Valhalla North Axe Throwing Club.

Club members would practice to the World Axe Throwing League and National Axe Throwing Federation guidelines in preparation for the sport making its way over to the UK.

If the application is approved, the entrepreneurs hope to open the business in August of this year.

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