CARLISLE City Council is facing further questions about its controversial Hawker Festival.

The event took place in June and was considered a success by the city council - but questions have since been raised about the lack of local businesses who were given stalls.

A question has now been submitted by the council's Labour group about the event for this evening's full council meeting.

Submitted by deputy leader Cllr Lisa Brown, the question reads: "“The recently held Hawker Festival, in Carlisle City Centre was claimed a success by the Council.

"What was the exact criteria a local business had to meet in order to be allowed a free stall at the event and how many expressions of interest were received?"

The council have previously said that local businesses could apply to set up stalls for free at the event, which took place between June 10 and June 13.

It also pointed out that nearly half the open-air market was made up of Cumbrian traders.

But Cllr Brown said that some businesses were knocked back, which is why she has demanded the council reveal its criteria.

The market had already been criticised by publicans for taking trade away from their businesses, while there was also concern about social-distancing.

Carlisle City Council have been contacted for comment on the issue.

City councillors will face Cllr Brown's question at tonight's meeting, which takes place in the council chamber at the city's civic centre at 6.45pm.