Axe throwing business hopes to make the cut in Derby
An expanding urban axe-throwing business is set to open its next venue in Derby city centre.
Hatchet Harry’s, which has six other indoor axe-throwing centres in the UK, is planning to set up its latest ‘chop shop’ in Albion Street.
It is expected to open sometime next month in the old Cardmarket store, next door to the former Gap Outlet.
People of all ages will be able to learn the techniques originally handed down by generations of Canadian lumberjacks, where participants compete by throwing hand axes at wooden targets.
Hatchet Harry’s already has venues in Nottingham, Newcastle, Liverpool, Glasgow and Aberdeen, with another in Middlesbrough opening soon.
Derby was chosen as the next location after the owners learned of moves by Nottingham property business ALB Group to buy-up commercial units in Albion Street in an effort to transform the area to its former glory.
Jack Beadle, who co-owns Hatchet Harry’s and sister business Harry’s Handcrafted Doughnuts with partner Richard Bridge, said: “The people of Derby are going to love Hatchet Harry’s. It’s harder than it looks, but there’s a sharp learning curve and it’s a real slice of fun.
“Derby was always near the top of our list for introducing this great activity – we were just waiting for the right venue to come on the market.
“Once we heard about ALB’s plans to snap-up properties in Albion Street and turn around the area’s fortunes, we were behind the plan all the way.
“And Derby needs all the good fortune it can get after facing such a challenging year with the football club. Now the city’s residents can enjoy a bit of shopping followed by a bit of chopping!”
Talks are currently underway to open new Hatchet Harry’s centres in Brighton and Reading, with other sites likely to follow later this year.
