An exhibition described as an “incredible journey” that celebrates Carlisle United’s history and impact on the community officially opens this weekend.
‘Backing the Blues: 120 Years of Carlisle United’ is set to be unveiled in Tullie, the city’s museum and art gallery.
A remarkable range of United-themed artefacts and memorabilia is going on display after a major collaboration between Tullie, the club, Cumberland Council and the University of Cumbria.
Previously unseen items and footage is promised along with some iconic artefacts from United’s eventful history, while some rare and classic images from the News & Star’s archive also feature.
A huge range of United artefacts will be on show at the exhibition (Image: Stuart Walker)
The exhibition, which opens on Saturday and runs to November 10, comes 120 years since the club’s name changed from Shaddongate United to Carlisle United.
This year is also the 50th anniversary of the club’s famous season in the top-flight of English football – and 25 years since Jimmy Glass’ miraculous goal.
Those periods are just some of the eras which feature in Tullie’s first exhibition this year, and its first since closing for major redevelopment work last December.
Among the items on show will be rare collections, including personal letters and artefacts, from supporters.
Behind-the-scenes cine film of the club from the 1960s to 1980s will also be shown.
Memorabilia from former players and their families will be on display, while one special feature will be a United-themed wedding dress worn by Lisa Holmes in 1998 – in the colours of the Blues’ away strip of that time.
The United-themed wedding attire of Paul and Lisa Holmes in 1998 which is featured in the exhibition (Image: News & Star)
There will also be a United-inspired sculpture by contemporary artist Gordon Young.
It will all be on show from Saturday, when the launch day will also offer family activities such as exhibition tours, football games, family crafts, face painting and an appearance from the club’s mascot Olga.
United’s chief executive Nigel Clibbens said: “The opening marks a great moment in the exhibition project.
“It’s the culmination of a huge effort from all the project partners and many volunteers over many months. We can’t thank everyone who as contributed enough for all their hard work.
“This is a fantastic project which has something for everyone and it will be brilliant to see fans and community come together to celebrate the Blues and the club’s place in the community over 120 years.”
Tim Mills, the project curator at Tullie, said the exhibition is the result of a “love and passion for Carlisle United FC, curated by the fans, for the fans.”
A collection of United pin badges on display (Image: Stuart Walker)
He added that it is about more than just the history of the club – “it’s about life and what football means to the city and the people."
Simon Clarkson, United’s supporter liaison officer, is one of the team of fans who has been gathering much of the memorabilia.
"This has been an incredible journey when, just like football itself, we have pulled together and worked as a team to put on an exhibition to be proud of,” he said.
“We think it will appeal to everyone with a big emphasis on making the experience a great one for families."
Edward Cooper, senior lecturer in film and television at the University of Cumbria, said he was delighted that he and his students have been able to play such an involved part in the project.
“Working on this project has been an incredibly fulfilling achievement for me as an academic,” he said.
“It allowed me to explore various aspects of the club, football, and the amazing people involved in our nation's game.
“As a lecturer, it was immensely rewarding to guide students through this project, witnessing them thrive in a professional environment and gaining invaluable experience.
Tom and Patty Piatak, United's owners, take a look around the exhibition (Image: Stuart Walker)
“Additionally, as a lifelong fan, it was a pleasure to explore behind the scenes and uncover captivating stories.
“Collaborating closely with the Carlisle United Collective, curator Tim Mills, and everyone at Tullie, Cumberland Council and Carlisle United football club has been deeply rewarding.”
Stephen Dunn, communities and culture officer at Cumberland Council, added: "This is absolutely superb, and the timing couldn't be better – the club is sailing on the most positive waves I've seen in the 50 years I've been going.
“Season tickets and shirt sales are the best ever. It's so exciting and helps build the momentum into this season.
“It's fantastic to see Tullie and CUFC joining together like this celebrating our brilliant city and football club. And we sail on to our next historical chapter!”
United’s owners, the Piataks, have already visited the exhibition during its final stages of assembly, while a special launch night for invited guests is taking place this evening.
The exhibition is part of a larger projected titled Be Just and Fear Not - Celebrating our Club and Supporting our Community, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Once the exhibition concludes in the autumn, a smaller version will tour to local venues before going on permanent display at Brunton Park.
As well as Carlisle United and Tullie, the main project partners are Carlisle United Community Sports Trust, the University of Cumbria and Cumberland Council, with further support from Cumbria Archives, Cumbria Deaf Association and National Football Museum.
The exhibition is open from this Saturday until November 10, and is open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday, and 11am to 4pm on Sundays.
Adult exhibition day tickets are £7, with unlimited exhibition entry and access to some associated activities £15. Children and under-18s go free.
A programme of accompanying events will run throughout the summer holidays including family crafts, player meet and greets, talks and more. For further information visit tullie.org.uk.
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