The eagerly-anticipated arrival of Olly Murs and Bryan Adams to Cumbria has cemented Carlisle's place as an events city, a councillor has said.

Anne Quilter, Carlisle's culture, heritage and leisure portfolio holder said that the recent announcements showcase the fact that Carlisle is capable of drawing in big names, meaning that people no longer have to travel further afield to see their favourite acts.

Olly Murs, who shot to fame after appearing on The X Factor in 2009, will play at Carlisle United's Brunton Park on June 3 while Canadian Adams follow in the footsteps of Sir Tom Jones by performing at Bitts Park on July 15.

Mrs Quilter said: "I think it's fantastic news for the city. Last year we had Tom Jones and Rod Stewart here.

"Although I couldn't get to Rod Stewart I really enjoyed Tom Jones.

"I think Carlisle has really cemented itself as an events city. In the past people have had to go further afield to places like Newcastle but now we're showing we can draw in the bigger names."

The day before Murs' gig - which is likely to attract a sell-out crowd - Brunton Park will also welcome reggae legends UB40.

Mrs Quilter said that the arrival of big names will benefit the city in a number of ways.

"People might come from across the north west and southern Scotland to the gigs," she said.

"There's a good chance that they'll then search for what else is on in Carlisle and find out about other places where there's live music or other events and will come back. It's a big, positive step for the city.

"The city council is always looking to work with promoters to see what events can be put on and we're looking to have a range of different things, for example the possibility of live theatre in Bitts Park."

Phil King, Carlisle United's sales and marketing director said that the club is hoping to sell around 15,000 tickets for both the UB40 and Olly Murs gigs.

He said: "It's similar to what we had for Rod Stewart last year but it's a little bit different this time around as we'll have standing on the pitch rather than seating.

"Last year was great for both the club and the city.

"As a club we were able to raise our profile and increase revenue but businesses in Carlisle also felt the benefits as well, with people coming into the city. I think pretty much every hotel within a 15-mile radius of Carlisle was sold out."

Tickets for both gigs, which are subject to a booking fee, go on sale on Friday at 10am.

They can be bought either online or in person from the Tourist Information Centre at the Old Town Hall.