THE manager of a new sports bar in Colchester said he was “close to tears” after seeing his hard work become reality in its first week of business.

No Name Bar, in Long Wyre Street, enjoyed its first full week of being open last week.

The former Argos shop has been transformed into an activity-led bar with axe throwing, table tennis, shuffleboard and more.

Run by Karl Zabroski, who was a manager at Rollerworld for 14 years, the new venue enjoyed a hugely successful first week in the city centre.

Gazette: Thrilled - Karl Zabroski could not be happier with how the first week of business has gone

Mr Zabroski said: “It is our first proper week, and it has been amazing.

“It has been a lot busier than expected, but that’s not how we’re measuring success.

“Our success is us achieving our primary goal for people to come along and have fun.

“And people have been doing that. We have had some great feedback.”

No Name Bar offers punters games and fun, with activities including axe throwing, pool, shuffleboard, table tennis and darts all on offer.

Mr Zabroski said: “What has been really popular is our all-play pass.

Gazette:

“Rather than booking games individually, the pass allows for two-hour use of all the activities.

“Guests can do as much as they want for two hours for £25, which means everyone gets a chance at all the games.

“People were really happy with the value for money.”

For news updates straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.

Gazette: Success - The venue has already proved popular with punters

No Name Bar became what it is after a forced name change.

Mr Zabroski initially decided to name it Allstars Battle Bar but was left with no choice but to have a re-think after being hit by a cease and desist letter from Boom Battle Bar.

However, the 38-year-old said he thinks the order helped with the success, adding how he was “close to tears” after seeing his dream turn to reality.

He said: “I think the order was actually a blessing in disguise.

“Taking the name away meant we didn’t really have to focus on a name and a brand.

Gazette: Good times - Punters can enjoy everything from golf and pool to axe-throwing and more

"It has given us the opportunity to focus on what really matters, providing that really good time and experience for people.

“There was a point at the weekend where I just stood there looking around at everything we’ve achieved, and I was close to tears.

"I feel blessed and lucky to have the team I’ve got - they’ve all been phenomenal, so thank you to them and everyone who has supported us so far.

“It really is a dream come true."