Pictured: Nick Anderton at Carlisle United v Bristol Rovers

Former Carlisle United captain Nick Anderton back at Brunton Park, looking healthy and in positive spirits.

The ex-Blues defender, who also played for Saturday's opponents Bristol Rovers, was United's special guest at the game.

Nick Anderton, right, conducts the Golden Gamble draw (Image: Ben Holmes)

It was the 27-year-old's first appearance back at United since his battle with cancer which led Anderton to retire earlier this year.

The left-back was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer, in the summer of 2022.

He underwent a year of gruelling treatment before announcing the great news this September that he was cancer free.

Nick Anderton is all smiles on his return to Brunton Park (Image: Barbara Abbott)

Anderton, who was accompanied by partner Isabel at the game, met supporters in United's Legends Lounge and RAW Lounge, and gave a talk about his cancer battle.

He then received a warm ovation from fans of both clubs as he was presented to the crowd at half-time and performed the Golden Gamble draw.

Nick Anderton chats to the News & Star's Jon Colman in United's Legends Lounge (Image: Barbara Abbott)

Anderton played for United from 2020-2021, making 54 appearances, the majority a captain.

He then joined Bristol Rovers for whom he played 39 times before his cancer diagnosis led to the end of his playing days.

Nick Anderton on the pitch at half-time on Saturday (Image: Barbara Abbott)

Anderton also caught up with the News & Star before Saturday's game where he spoke about his ambition to return to football - that interview will appear soon.