Carlisle United's attempts to rally around families and fans after the Storm Desmond floods is among the reasons why they are in the running to be named the EFL's family club of the year.

The Blues' work in the community after the devastating events of December 2015 has contributed to their place on a six-club shortlist for the prestigious award.

United said they gave a particular focus to supporting and embracing young fans after the floods with a range of initiatives.

"At that point we looked to redouble our efforts to help lift morale in the community, in particular the younger members of the community," said club media officer Andy Hall.

United's submission to the EFL Awards included the refurbishment of the club's popular family zone with the help of SkyBet, with CFM also providing new toys for the facility.

A further scheme at the club called Olga's Army was open to children whose families had been relocated to hotels after their homes were flooded.

Membership of the club was free for children up to the age of 16, who were then able to meet the United players among other matchday initiatives at Brunton Park.

"We also hoped that would also encourage them to become Junior Blues, and real fans of the future," Hall added.

United's support for disability football has also been recognised by the EFL's judges, with United and their community sports trustees winning an £8,000 grant from the Wembley National Stadium Trust to help the Blues' powerchair football team, which is available to people across Cumbria.

Further community activities include the summer family fun day at United, which Hall said attracts between 3-4,000 people each year. The club's links with Jigsaw Children's Hospice, which involves popular player visits, have also been hailed.

United say their ticket pricing for people aged 11-17 - including £100 season tickets - along with their popular community ticket scheme also show their commitment to the community. They also highlighted the work of their community sports trust, headed by ex-Blues winger John Halpin.

"Even to be shortlisted is fantastic recognition for the club and it would be wonderful if our case was deemed strong enough to win it," Hall added.

United and Stevenage are shortlisted from League Two, with Millwall and MK Dons shortlisted from League One and Blackburn and Brighton from the Championship.

The award, sponsored by Nickelodeon, will be presented at the EFL Awards in London next Sunday, April 9.