By Ross Parkinson - Carlisle United Supporters' Trust

Some 734 Blues travelled to Milton Keynes on Saturday with enthusiasm that the corner had been turned by the win against Barrow, and a bright new dawn was upon us.

Unfortunately real life brought us crashing back down to Earth with a bump as we fell to a 3-0 defeat to the home side.

Nothing is ever simple when it comes to Carlisle United and we move onto Saturday’s home game with a new winger, in Jordan Jones, who gives us a different option in attack.

Often these types of signing can be the final piece of the jigsaw and can change the atmosphere in a team, thinking back to the signings of Andy Preece and Kevin Gray in Simmo’s first spell that helped to transform the side, and whilst we didn’t achieve what we required that season, despite the play off form towards the end of the season, those signings set the foundation that almost led us to the Championship.

Here’s hoping that Jordan can bring a similar improvement, no pressure.

Onto Carlisle United Supporters’ Trust business, our final renewal reminders were e-mailed to lapsed members yesterday. We are aware there may be many reasons why people may not have renewed, from a disagreement on our mission to simply not getting round to doing it.

However, if you have decided not to renew we would appreciate your feedback on the reasons why by replying to the reminder e-mail.

We as a board represent your views and the feedback, both good and bad is invaluable, even those of the commenter giving the board members nicknames from behind an anonymous account. Although more constructive feedback with solutions is preferred.

We are continuing work on various projects that will give even more value to your membership, from the already running boardroom and prize draws, ticket priority and discount, to potentially pulling on your boots on the hallowed turf of Brunton Park yourself (more info to follow in the coming months).

We are working very hard to ensure that you get more for your membership.

Our pin badges have arrived and have already provided popular, to those who have ordered some already these will be posted in the coming week. If you would like to purchase one you can find them on our website here: CUST Pin Badge – Carlisle United Supporters Trust.

There is also an ever expanding range of products, from memory plaques to beanies, in our shop here: Shop – Carlisle United Supporters Trust (cust.org.uk)

The initial order of memorial plaques have been ordered from the supplier and will be placed as soon as possible. We have also added another plaque option for those Blues still with us. These plaques are blue and will be placed around the ground at a future date. These are priced at £35 for Trust members and £50 for non-members.

Non-members can still save £5 by joining the trust for £10 before placing their order here: Join Carlisle United Supporters Trust – Carlisle United Supporters Trust (cust.org.uk)

All profits from these sales are used for the improvements to the trust offering, events and investment into the club. Plus you’ll also get some decent stuff for yourself or a loved one.