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News from the Geopark
Rotarians get the axe factor
22 Jun 2009
Monday, June 22, 2009 An ancient axe, used to rape and pillage, has been presented to the Rotary Club of Torquay.
The artifact, thought to be of Viking origin, was gifted by a Norwegian Rotary Club twinned with the Torquay organisation.
The weapon was intended for use as a gavel at meetings, but is so sharp it will be displayed inside a glass case.
Linda Dewis of Torquay Rotary explained: "A long time ago the Norwegians invaded England, so they gave us this in good humour. It is great.
"The metal axe head is very old, but they have put it on a new wooden handle.
"It is incredibly sharp."
She added: "It was quite a surprise when they gave it to us. We meet them every two years and always exchange presents, but this was unexpected."
The 12 Norwegian Rotarians from Fredikstrad were given a tour of some of South Devon's sites including Kents Cavern, where the relic of times past was presented.
"It was very appropriate presenting the axe at Kents Cavern," said Linda.
The Rotary Club of Torquay has been twinned with the Fredikstrad group for over 18 years.
Geoff Randall, president of the Rotary Club of Torquay, said: "We were proud to welcome our Norwegian guests to the Bay.
"They were keen to learn about what we do to help local and international causes.
"A highlight of their stay was hearing about the work Geopark is doing to protect local geological heritage, and their visit to Kents Cavern."
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