Carlisle United are asking fans to nominate local heroes - who will be celebrated at the opening game of the season.

The Blues are planning a half-time parade of people who have gone above and beyond to help others during the last 18 months.

The club are inviting people to nominate those who have shown true community spirit during the challenging Covid-19 lockdown periods.

United say those nominated will be given free entry to the August 7 season opener against Colchester at Brunton Park, and brought onto the pitch at half-time.

Their names will also appear on the big screen and in the matchday programme, and they will be given a photographic keepsake of the day.

United's chief executive Nigel Clibbens told the club website: “Some of the stories that came out of Carlisle, Cumbria and the local region through the lockdown periods were unbelievably heart-warming.

“It confirmed what we already knew – this part of the north west is about caring and looking after each other, community values and togetherness.

“This is a small gesture, we’re aware of that, but we want to make our special occasion, with fans back with us for a competitive fixture for the first time in a long time, special for people who have done so much for others as well."

Nominations should be submitted to media@carlisleunited.co.uk, including the reason why the person is being nominated and, if possible, a photograph.

Any nominated local heroes who cannot attend the game will be celebrated on the club website, United added.

The club will also use their opening game of the season to remember those who have died since the start of the pandemic.

A big-screen roll of remmbrance will pay tribute to former players, staff, fans and others connected to the club.

A minute's applause will also be held ahead of the game, and fans are invited to submit named to appear during the tribute, and also in an In Memoriam section of the club website.

Names and photographs, along with messages, should be sent to media@carlisleunited.co.uk.