120 years of Carlisle United on display from tomorrow

202\4 marks 120 years since its official founding, 50 years since its sole season of top flight fo­otball and 25 years since goalkeeper Jimmy Glass’ last minute relegation beating goal.

In what feels like the dawn of a golden era for the club following the take-over by the Piatik family, it was felt that this was a perfect time to look back and appreciate the Blues’ lively history.

Nigel Clibbens, Chief Executive, Carlisle United Football Club: "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."

Backing the Blues: 120 Years of Carlisle United will be Tullie’s first exhibition this year and the first since closing for major redevelopment work in December 2023. Although the full site is not yet ready for visitors, the museum will be making use of its Exhibition Gallery, as well as its Lecture Theatre, Function Room and gardens to host a number of activities and a temporary café.

Backing the Blues is part of a larger project titled “Be Just and Fear Not” Celebrating the Club and Supporting the Community, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. It has already seen plenty of community engagement work, recruitment of the Carlisle United Collective of volunteers and work done to better document the club’s large collection of memorabilia to make it more accessible for future generations. Once the exhibition concludes, a smaller version will tour to local venues before going on permanent display at Brunton Park.

The exhibition will run until 10 November 2024, open 10am-4pm Monday-Saturday and 11am-4pm on Sundays. A programme of accompanying events will run throughout the summer holidays including family crafts, player meet and greets, talks and more.

Tim Mills, “Be Just & Fear Not” Project Curator, Tullie said: "This exhibition has been born out of a love and passion for Carlisle United F.C., curated by the fans, for the fans. Featuring previously unseen artefacts, photographs and films, Backing The Blues is more than just the history of the club, it’s about life and what football means to the city and the people."

Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places added: "As a supporter of my home team, I’m delighted to see this amazing community project come to life. A huge thanks to everyone involved, especially the fans who have given their time, stories and memorabilia. It’s a must-see exhibition that will one for all the family to enjoy."