VIKING enthusiasts are being given the chance to test their throwing skills at a new axe-throwing centre.

Valhalla North Axe Throwing Centre, based at Aycliffe Business Park, in Newton Aycliffe, opened on Monday to dozens of supporters.

The centre is the brainchild of partners Carl Howe and Kathryn Brown and friend and shareholder Sam Nicholson.

The founders 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.

The owners said the opening was a success and customers had a great night alongside staff.

Mr Howe said: "Our opening night was a huge success. There were lots of smiling happy faces and people hitting bullseyes, which is exactly what we’re aiming for.

"We honestly couldn’t have asked for a better launch.

"It’s great to be amongst such enthusiastic people."

For more information about the centre or to book visit @valhallanorth on Facebook or visit valhallanorth.co.uk/book-online