Carlisle is to host its first ever Hawker Market later this week.

The city centre event will take place between tomorrow and Sunday.

It will be the first of its kind, featuring street food, seating areas and entertainment from local performers and musicians.

Carlisle city councillor and Portfolio holder for Culture, Heritage and Leisure Stephen Higg, said: “I am delighted that we are able to re-start our events programme.

“It is encouraging that local businesses are taking part and supporting this first-of-a-kind event in the city.

“The weekend music and entertainment are a welcome platform for some great local talent, and the forecast for the weekend looks good too.

“I hope that as many people as possible come out to enjoy the Hawker Festival and show their support for our high street.”

Organised by Carlisle City Council, with support from the Government’s Welcome Back Fund, it aims to encourage shoppers to return into the city centre post lockdown, give visitors a safe outdoor space to reconnect with friends and family, and bring the community together.

Live music will be held in the city centre from 12pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

Performers will include The Postcard Band, Marblmoon, Cosmic Cat, Mylittlebrother, Dan Mason, Christian Moss, Gemma Bell., Ste Harkins, Jazz(ish), We Are Quasars, Spud, Joe Lush and Slaves of Venus.

Cumbrian businesses have been invited to take part free of charge.

A Covid Safety Management Plan will be implemented with provision for social distancing.

Hand-sanitising stations will be provided, and stewards will be on site to ensure queueing systems at stalls are kept to a minimum and to help customers maintain social distancing.

The project has received funding from the England European Regional Development Fund and the UK Government through the Welcome Back Fund.

For a running order of the events on show and other information, visit discovercarlisle.co.uk