Carlisle United's new owners have been getting familiar with the city's local heritage, following an invitation from the Mayor of Carlisle to tour the Civic Centre.

Tom and Patty Piatak, alongside Carlisle United's chief executive Nigel Clibbons, were shown the civic regalia including the hall of the Mayors and the ceremonial sword which was forged in 1509, and the mace which dates back to 1685.

The tour touched on the city's international relationships, with visits to rooms featuring gifts from Carlisle's twinned cities, Flensburg in Germany and Slupsk in Poland.

The new owners also learned about the bond with their compatriots in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, an association formed back in 1950.

Carlisle was presented with a carpet in 1953 which bears the coat of arms of the two cities and is displayed outside the Mayor's parlour.

News and Star: Tom & Patty Piatak visit the Mayor's officeTom & Patty Piatak visit the Mayor's office (Image: Abdul Harid)

The link with America was first forged in 1950 when Carlisle City Council invited the Chief Burgess of Carlisle Pennsylvania to pay an official visit when a large-scale Historical pageant was to be held in 1951.

Mayor of Carlisle Abdul Harid said: "I am so happy to have a welcome reception for the family, the city embraces people from all over the world.

"I am so pleased to have the family here, investing and contributing towards our community.

"We want them to take part in our community activities and be comfortable living and working here."