People feeling the January blues without chocolate and booze can vent their frustrations at a new axe throwing business in Carlisle.

At the Lumber Lounge people can throw axes at targets - a skill that has been brought to the city by James Tattersall.

James, 28, learnt how to throw axes in Canada and believes the hobby can take off here.

The former William Howard School pupil said: "I was in Canada for about five years and a friend of mine had a voucher to go axe throwing in Montreal. I went with him and loved it."

James spent his summers working on farms in the Prairies and winters in ski resorts in the Rocky Mountains.

He said: "I loved it but I missed my family so I came home and set up this business."

The Lumber Lounge is based in the former Mitchell Dryers building in Denton Holme.

James, who lives at Park Broom, near Linstock, said: "Axe throwing isn't scary. It's great fun when you know how to throw an axe properly and a great feeling when you hit the bulls eye or even the board."

The business is aimed at over 18's and no alcohol is allowed on site.

James said: "A lot of people say it's a great way of keeping fit walking to and from the board and even the lifting of the axe gives you upper body strength.

"It's also a great team building exercise and it relives stress and lifts the spirits."

There are six targets at the Lumber Lounge and James says 30 people can attend at any one time.

There are only three other urban axe throwing venues in the UK and the closest is in Manchester.

Walk in customers, advance bookings and private hire are available.

The Lumber Lounge is open Monday to Friday from 5pm to 10pm and Saturday and Sunday from 2pm to 10pm.

A throwing session costs £15.

For more information call 07851476587 or follow the Facebook page @lumberlounge.