Fans will today make their long-awaited return to Brunton Park for the first time this year.

And Carlisle United's home friendly against Blackpool will see supporters back in the ground in a non socially-distanced setting for the first time since football re-emerged from the Covid-19 pandemic.

The visit of Neil Critchley's Championship side (kick-off 3pm) will also see the Blues unveil some of their new catering options for the first time.

It is a landmark day in the club's return from the Covid restrictions which have been seen at the ground over the last year.

Supporters have not been in the stadium since Boxing Day 2020, when a 2,000 Covid-capped crowd watched the 3-3 draw with Bolton.

The easing of restrictions at sporting events now sees some of the United faithful allowed back to the ground.

Sections 5, 6 and 7 of the Pioneer Stand will be open for home fans, along with the Paddock terrace.

Section 8 of the Pioneer Stand is also open for fans who would like to watch the game in a socially-distanced area with two-metre distancing and mandatory face-coverings.

Tickets are still available, although United have been advising fans to buy tickets ahead of the game. They said: "Tickets can be purchased on the day of the game from either the Paddock, Pioneer or away ticket office, and do not increase in price.

"We would strongly advise buying in advance of the game as current guidance means we need to take details for every person attending - this will mean ticket sales will take longer.

"The ticket offices around the ground will open at 1.30pm on the day of the game."

Fans will be able to sample some of United's new catering options, with the club having brought their food and drink offerings in-house for the new season.

As well as a £20 meal and match ticket offer in Foxy's Restaurant, a range of new outlets will also be in operation at the ground.

They include Hallsford Event Catering, who are providing burgers and sausages, and the Chippie Van for fish and chips.

McCall's pies, a new 'Brunton Blend' coffee from John Watt & Son and Cumbrian Tea will all be available in the Paddock kiosks.

Tugo Neo Pizza and 4ork Pasta will also be available from Ross’s Bar in the Pioneer Stand.

United also have Criffel Ale, from Sulwath Brewery, on offer in McVitie’s Bar in the Paddock and Balderstone’s Bar in the Pioneer Stand.

The Sunset Suite will be open from 12.30pm with turnstiles opening at 1.30pm.

United are recommending that fans wear face coverings at the ground, particularly when inside the stadium buildings, in queues or in other potentially busy areas such as concourses, toilets and entry/exit points.

The wearing of masks is not, though, a mandatory requirement, other than in Section 8 of the Pioneer Stand.

Club staff will be wearing masks, the Blues have said, while fans are urged to use hand sanitisers provided, and also use contactless payments where possible. 

"We ask supporters to space out in the terraced areas at matches, and when waiting. We have plenty of room to make this happen – please show respect and consideration at all times," the club's guidance says.

Away fans are also permitted to attend a game at Brunton Park for the first time since March 2020.

Tickets remain available on the gate for Blackpool supporters.

On the pitch, meanwhile, there could be home debuts for summer signings Tristan Abrahams, Zach Clough, Corey Whelan, Lukas Jensen and Manasse Mampala.