The countdown to the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay visit to Carlisle is under way.

Preparations are under way to welcome the baton to the city at 9am on Saturday.

The schedule of activity for the Baton’s time in Carlisle includes a route that will take in key landmarks such as Carlisle Cathedral.

Its route through Carlisle will start on English Street at 9am then travel towards the Greenmarket, the Cathedral grounds, Paternoster Row and onto Castle Street into Tullie House gardens where it will be welcomed as part of this year’s Unity Festival, at around 9.30am. It is due to leave Carlisle at 9.45am.

READ MORE: Carlisle residents are being asked to get involved in the Commonwealth Games

Councillor Stephen Higgs, Portfolio holder for Culture, Heritage and Leisure said: "We’re delighted that Carlisle has been chosen as one of the venues for The Queen’s Baton Relay. This international showcase will give the city a starring role and will promote the region to a global audience. We hope visitors come out in support of the Batonbearers."

Birmingham 2022 is hosting the 16th official Queen’s Baton Relay, a journey which brings together and celebrates communities across the Commonwealth during the build up to the Games.

In England, the Queen’s Baton Relay will provide the opportunity for communities to experience the excitement for Birmingham 2022, as the 11 days of showstopping sport nears ever closer.

Thousands of Batonbearers, each with inspiring backgrounds and stories, will have the honour of carrying the Baton during the journey through England, including those nominated in recognition of their contributions to their local community, whether that be in sport, education, the arts, culture or charity.

One of the confirmed community Batonbearers in Carlisle is Mina Banisaeid. Mina moved to Cumbria from Iran and has used her time and positive outlook to inspire and educate others.

She is the Chair of Carlisle City of Sanctuary supporting refugees and asylum seekers to find sanctuary within our city, actively organising and attending events and translating.

She is an activist and articulately voices her opinion around minority groups. She also works as an advocate for LGBTQ+ young people at the charity Pride in North Cumbria. 

READ MORE: Queen's Baton Relay to appear in Carlisle touring landmarks

Commonwealth Games Federation President Dame Louise Martin DBE said: "The Queen’s Baton Relay symbolises hope, solidarity and collaboration across the Commonwealth at a time when it is needed most.