Carlisle United’s award-winning Backing The Blues project is entering its final and most important stage – securing the club’s heritage for generations to come.
Funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project has already delivered a packed programme of activity, including school workshops, wellbeing sessions, and the landmark exhibition at Tullie House celebrating 120 years of Carlisle United. Read more about the exhibition here »
The exhibition went on tour across the county with a pop-up version that reached local venues and community spaces. Read more about the pop-up tour here ». It also inspired an ever-growing display of memorabilia at Brunton Park.
Now, the final phase will see fan volunteers from the Carlisle United Heritage Group (CUHG) digitise the club’s archive, move it into safe storage at Brunton Park, and make it accessible to supporters for years to come.
Project Lead and Supporter Liaison Officer, Simon Clarkson, said: “This is about protecting Carlisle United’s story. By digitising and securing the archive, we’re making sure fans today – and in the future – can explore and enjoy the history of our club. We’ve already seen how powerful it is when former players and supporters come together to share memories.
"Thanks to an agreement between the club and the Carlisle United Community Sports Trust (CST), the archive will be safeguarded and showcased long-term. The CUHG will continue to collect, catalogue, and share items, and we’re always keen to hear from fans who may have memorabilia to donate. Anyone who wants to get involved can contact slo@carlisleunited.co.uk.”
Carlisle United Chief Executive, Nigel Clibbens, added: “This project shows what can be achieved when the club, its fans, and the community work together. The archive has already captured imaginations, and its legacy will continue to inspire future generations of supporters.”
● The Backing The Blues project is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
● CUHG continues to welcome memorabilia donations from supporters.
● Contact: slo@carlisleunited.co.uk
