Former Carlisle United and Workington Reds star Tony Hopper will be remembered with a special trophy at this year's Carlisle Half marathon.

The much-missed footballer, who died in 2018, will be celebrated with a prize given to a participant in this year's race.

The Tony Hopper Trophy, organisers say, will be awarded to someone "who has gone above and beyond over the course of the last two years, during the Covid-19 pandemic."

It will ensure a lasting tribute to Tony, who helped inspire the launch of the Carlisle Half during his battle with motor neurone disease.

The idea for the running event came after the charity match held in Tony's honour at Brunton Park in 2017, and it has grown in popularity since then.

It involves a half marathon, a 10k race and a family fun run, all of which start at United's Brunton Park stadium on Sunday, March 13.

People are invited to submit nominations for the Tony Hopper Trophy.

Ian Milburn of race organisers IM Running Events Ltd, was a close friend of Tony and said: "We wanted to find a way to remember Tony that really means something, and we think he would love this.

“We’ve spoken to Sue and Darren - Tony’s wife and his brother - and they think it’s a great idea, and it’s now something we will add to the event every year going forward.

“The reason for nominating could be anything from fundraising, to helping in the community, or because someone has made a Herculean effort just to get to the start line.

“Literally anyone that deserves some recognition and is taking part can be nominated. Darren will be there on the day to present the trophy and we’re really looking forward to reading the stories about the positive things that have been done through what was a really testing time.”

Nominations can be made via Facebook Messenger to the Carlisle Half team, via https://www.facebook.com/Carlislehalf/

The name and age of the nominee, plus which event they are taking part in, must be given, along with a description of why they are being nominated.

Closing date for nominations is 10am on Monday, March 7.

Click HERE for more information on the Carlisle Half.