(Image: AXE-AHOLICS)
A new axe throwing venue in Newton Aycliffe has been selected to host the European Championships just weeks after opening its doors.
Axe-Aholics on Cumbie Way opened fully at the end of July.
Owner David Tonner decided to revive the former Valhalla North Axe Throwing venue, which closed in December.
Dave, 39, from Stockton, said the closure had left a "massive hole" in members' lives.
Axe-aholics is open for anyone who wants to go- no matter what experience you have
(Image: AXE-AHOLICS)
He said: "I decided to take the plunge to start after we lost the axe venue in December.
"It left a massive hole in members' lives and left an absence for the couple of months it was closed.
"I know that we had a strong member base and interest in Aycliffe from the previous place so we looked at a few premises but when the opportunity came up to take over here I just knew I had to do it. We spent a few weeks getting the place ready and then opened at the end of July.
"It is open for anyone who wants to come, whether people want to come in general to let off some steam and meet some like minded people or for people who want to compete.
"It has started really well; it's not just a business but a community too."
Dave has been axe throwing for around five years after first trying it as a way to have somewhere to go and meet people.
The new venue offers 90-minute sessions, including expert coaching followed by games and head-to-head challenges.
Axe-aholics Newton Aycliffe has reopened bringing back the perfect space for the axe-throwing community to meet like minded peopl
(Image: AXE-AHOLICS)
It also runs International Axe Throwing Federation (IATF)-sanctioned leagues for people looking to take their throwing further, with four concurrent leagues offering titles, leaderboards and prizes.
But despite only opening in July, Axe-Aholics has already secured a major event.
The venue has been selected to host the European Championships, with competitors expected to travel to the region in a bid to qualify for the World Championships.
Dave said: "Not only is it such an achievement for us after not being open for long I also think it is a great thing for the area as well. We will have some of the best throwers coming to the region to try and get a place at the World Championships."
Axe-Aholics is open to people looking for a new activity, groups, families, birthdays and those wanting to compete.
Participants aged eight to 17 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Axe-aholics Newton Aycliffe has reopened bringing back the perfect space for the axe-throwing community to meet like minded peopl
(Image: AXE-AHOLICS)
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The venue is open from 6pm to 9pm Monday to Friday and from noon to 9pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
Bookings can be made by contacting Axe-Aholics via email or Facebook.
The venue is based at 11 Cumbie Way, Aycliffe Business Park, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6YA.