CARLISLE is making its final preparations ahead of the coronation celebrations at the weekend.

Bunting has been put up in the city centre and some shops have decorated their front windows with flags and patriotic items as a bumper bank holiday begins.

News and Star: Plenty of shops have decorations in the window for the coronationPlenty of shops have decorations in the window for the coronation (Image: Isaac Cooper)King Charles III is set to be coronated at a special service at Westminster Abbey on Saturday, May 6 in front of 2,000 people in the church – including a Carlisle charity volunteer – and an expected TV audience of billions.

Alongside the service there will be a huge military procession and the coronation concert on Sunday evening.

But despite the pageantry, opinion was mixed amongst shoppers in the city centre about the coronation with some saying that they wouldn’t be watching the ceremony.

“I’m not going to watch as I’m just not that fussed about the royal family” said Anne.

“During the cost-of-living crisis it does seem a bit wrong to be spending all this money on the coronation but I’m not complaining about the bank holiday!”

Her sentiment was echoed by local woman, Evelyn who said that the event was ‘disgusting’

“We’ve got thousands of people going to foodbanks and struggling to heat their homes and we’re spending millions so he can get a crown put on his head – it’s disgusting,” said Evelyn.

Alongside anger at the cost, there was some apathy towards the royal family amongst some with Daryl saying he had other plans.

“I’m off to see my mates so I’m not going to be watching,” said Daryl.

News and Star: Daryl said he wouldn't be watching the coronation on SaturdayDaryl said he wouldn't be watching the coronation on Saturday (Image: Isaac Cooper)“I think people will watch for something to do but I’m not sure if anybody is that excited about it.”

Despite some people questioning the coronation’s relevance, there was also plenty of support for the King in Carlisle.

“We’re big fans of the King and will definitely be tuning in” said Susan and David.

“I’ve spent all week decorating my house and I’ve got all the family coming so its going to be great.”

“It’s good for the country to have something to bring us together” said Dorothy.

“I’m not so happy with Camilla becoming the Queen, but Charles is like his mother and will do a great job as the new King.

“I love the marching and the bands and all the uniforms. I do worry that the younger generation aren’t fans, but I’ll certainly be tuning in.”

The coronation is being livestreamed on a big screen in Bitts Park by Cumberland Council.