We sat down and spoke to Supporter Liaison Officer Simon Clarkson this week to catch up on developments regarding the on-going memorabilia project.
“There is a huge appetite amongst fans for the club’s history and heritage to be told at Brunton Park,” he said. “We have seen this with the refurbishments of the west stand, in particular the Glass Bar, Murphy’s Bar and the 74/75 Lounge, all of which have been really well received by fans.”
Simon explained the day-to-day management of the process: “A recent review of the stock of donations made so far include over 5,000 photographs, 3,000 programmes, 1,500 newspapers, 250 shirts, 200 books, medals, footballs, scarves, flags and scrapbooks.
“Enquiries to donate items are received every week as the community sees that the football club is taking steps to not just preserve but also celebrate its heritage. When those who donate see their items on display and how much they are enjoyed by others, the feedback received is one of immense satisfaction that they have brought joy to others. Only this week Aaron, a United fan based in America, contacted me about a Bill Shankly letter he had donated that is on display in the Glass Bar.
“We want to ensure that heritage is managed and cared for. We have a small group of volunteers who are sorting through the collection.”
So what are the plans going forward? Simon explained: “There are current limitations in regards volunteer skills, time and funding, so we have pressed on in collaboration with local partners to apply for funding.
“If we are successful, we will be able to better celebrate the legacy of the club, document and share our history, and reach to new audiences. We hope that elements of the archive will be digitised for preservation and fill our collecting gaps via targeted call outs early next year.”
Chief Executive Nigel Clibbens said: “The project is a hidden gem at present. There has been a fantastic amount of work done behind the scenes by the volunteers.
“We want to gather more and more and appeal again for more donations – whether its old shirts (we are still missing many as we aim to have one of every shirt if possible), pictures or other unique items from the club’s past.
“We plan to display as much so it can be shared with all fans”
If you want to get involved or have items you wish to donate, please contact Simon Clarkson by emailing slo@carlisleunited.co.uk
