In reply to Andy Johnson:
Hi Andy
I have a blue monro axe, had it over ten years. Found it fine, quite light and ok for walking and grade I & II routes. Used it in the lakes, Scotland and the Alps.
The DMM cirque is also worth looking at, a bit heavier and more cash but more future proof if you want to move onto easy climbs.
Hope that helps Davey-brown@hotmail.co.uk