Axe throwers bring world championships to town

Natalie Murray, from the US, says axe throwing is a growing sport

Knife and axe throwers from around the world have been in Lincolnshire to compete in the world championships.

More than 100 throwers from 12 countries, including Australia and the US, took part in the event over the weekend at Kenwick Park, near Louth.

Competitors were challenged to hit targets at distances of 3 to 7 metres (10 to 23ft) and there were rounds of long-distance throwing and sudden death.

Organiser Spencer Kennedy said hosting the tournament, which previously has been held in Italy and France, was "a big deal".

Competitors take part in heats and "sudden death" competitions

According to Mr Kennedy, the sport is growing and, despite appearances, is safe, because the blades are not sharp but have a dull edge.

“Not only is it satisfying, it's kind of Neolithic... kind of Viking,” he said.

However, with about 30 women taking part, Mr Kennedy insisted that "we're not all big, horrible, hairy men”.

Spencer Kennedy said organising the event had been a "big deal"

Natalie Murray, from Long Island, New York, is a long-distance champion who throws small axes and knifes.

“If other women see me out there throwing, competing with men with other women, they'll be able to do it too,” she said.

“I am breaking the stigma of it either being a big Viking or even a magician or a circus act.

"We are not only a legitimate sport, we're a growing sport, and more and more women are getting involved.”

Marcus from Sweden said the sport was like darts

Marcus Pehart, from Sweden, said anyone could take part.

“We're trying to get more people involved," he said. "We're not lunatics throwing dangerous weapons; it’s actually a precision sport, like darts.”

Follow BBC Lincolnshire on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail]