An axe throwing and restaurant venue in Bromley Cross has announced its immediate closure after never recovering from debt caused by the pandemic.

Owner of Real Axe on Dunscar Industrial Park, Simon Atherton, said it was with a “heavy heart” that he made the decision, but he is keen for someone to take over the reigns of what was a thriving business.

It opened in October 2019, and less than six months later was forced to close temporarily due to coronavirus restrictions.

Simon says that throughout the Covid lockdowns, even with government help at the time, the company amassed significant debt that it simply could not overcome.

The Bolton News: Real Axe was situated on Dunscar Industrial Park on Blackburn Road in Bromley CrossReal Axe was situated on Dunscar Industrial Park on Blackburn Road in Bromley Cross (Image: Google Maps)

Despite this, in 2022, Real Axe’s first full year of trading, it brought in £1.2m and was extremely popular.

READ MORE: Bolton to get first 'axe-throwing' venue with cocktails and smokehouse

Its reviews on Google paint a glowing picture as it is rated as 4.8 out of five from 315 reviews.

During its time at Dunscar Industrial Park on Blackburn Road, Simon says Real Axe has “coached and fed over 50,000 lunatics, every one of which it was a great pleasure, and without you guys we wouldn’t have been able to last this long".

“It was the right venue at the wrong time,” he added.

Simon says that within an hour of posting his statement on social media around 100 people commented on it expressing their sadness and best wishes.

The Bolton News: As well as axe throwing, Real axe also served drinks and food and also put on comedy nights and hosted musicians As well as axe throwing, Real axe also served drinks and food and also put on comedy nights and hosted musicians (Image: Newsquest)

Having gone into administration, Simon says that one of the jobs of those now handling the business is to try and sell Real Axe as a package.

READ MORE: Bolton's Real Axe venue bids to extend opening hours

Real Axe was a multi-faceted business. Not only could people learn about and partake in axe throwing, but there was a smokehouse barbecue restaurant and a bar.

It also put on comedy nights, organised by legendary Manchester comedy club Frog and Bucket, as well as providing a space for local and big-name DJs and musicians to perform.

Simon said: “I want somebody to carry on the legacy. Even if it’s not me, although I am willing to help.

“It’s too big, too great for Bolton.”

The Bolton News: Over 50,000 people have visited Real Axe since it opened in October 2019Over 50,000 people have visited Real Axe since it opened in October 2019 (Image: Newsquest)

One of Simon’s wishes is for a his “wonderful” team of around 30 staff, who are “passionate about Real Axe and its customers”, to be able to keep their jobs.

READ MORE: Real Axe Bolton shows you how to walk on fire this Easter

He added: “Real Axe didn’t have employees, more like members of a wonderful family, all of which were super professional to the very end, and when told the terrible news, every single one showed concern for others rather than themselves.”

Simon also paid tribute to his landlord and Jessica at the Frog and Bucket for their support throughout his time there.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at lewis.finney@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @lewisfinney18.