Carlisle United and Tullie to host 'festival of football'

An open training session at Brunton Park will give supporters the chance to watch the squad this morning.

Fans can also see some of the new facilities at the club for the first time, including new hospitality areas in the Andrew Jenkins Stand.

The half-term event also involves Tullie, where further activities are planned, while Mike Williamson and the players will also be visiting in the afternoon.

The full day of events, which runs from 10am to 4.30pm, is intended to be a positive day at the club for families and fans.

The initiative comes at a time the Blues are struggling badly on the pitch amid growing criticism over their League Two fortunes.

United, though, expect the day to prove popular.

It includes the opportunity to watch the squad being put through their paces, from 10.30am to 12pm, ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup first round tie with Wigan Athletic.

Fans can watch an open training session at Brunton Park and then meet the players at Tullie (Image: Richard Parkes)

Stadium tours and other activities are taking place at Brunton Park, while fans can also travel on the recently-refurbished team coach to Tullie, where tours of the ‘Backing the Blues’ United history exhibition will be taking place along with further activities.

From 10am to 2pm at Brunton Park, there will be stadium tours of the new hospitality lounges and boxes, refreshments and attractions in the fan zone, the chance to try United’s ‘big shot’ game, plus arts and crafts.

Tullie will be open from 10am to 4.30pm in their involvement in the day, with exhibition tours and a memorabilia swap shop on offer, while the United squad will be available for autographs and photos from 2.30pm. Day tickets at Tullie are £5 and free for children. Annual ticket holders can also enter free.

United’s chief executive Nigel Clibbens, speaking on the club website, said: “We are delighted to be hosting this very special two-site open day in the half-term school holiday.

Fans can also visit the Backing the Blues exhibition at Tullie (Image: Stuart Walker)

“There will be lots for all the family. We expect it to be very popular and it’s one not to be missed.”

Tullie director Andrew Mackay added: “This is a fantastic event to celebrate the history of CUFC and its importance to the people of Carlisle.

“It’s been a pleasure to host the Backing the Blues exhibition, and we want to celebrate at Tullie before it takes to the road to travel to Brunton Park and other community venues.”

United say all activities at Brunton Park are free, while free car parking is also available in the supporters’ car park at the rear of the stadium.

Under-14's must be accompanied by an over-18, the club added. Full details are via the club website.