ONE or several of my colleagues can be depended on to have something from the Old Fire Station on their weekly article list.

The venue has become a place for art, music and even political rallies and more.

I have never been to the Old Fire Station but it came to my attention a couple of weeks ago when friends went to see a visiting comedian.

They did not get to hear the punchline of his very funny and rambling observational comedy because, right near the end of the gig, an audience member collapsed and fell to the floor.

The reason I am mentioning this is because my friends were so impressed with the efficient and kindly way staff members handled the incident and hope that the person has made a full recovery.

It is just one of dramas to have hit the Old Fire Station.

About one year after its original £1million makeover, the venue was swamped during Storm Desmond.

But the Old Fire Station has recovered and is still going from strength to strength.

This year alone it is welcoming British folk pioneers, Fairport Convention. Tribute bands come and delight audiences and the venue has boasted many extremely funny comedians, some of whom come on their way to, or their way back from the Edinburgh Fringe.

The Old Fire Station has become an art centre with exhibitions throughout the years it has been open, including one representing the damage Storm Desmond had created.

Authors come to launch their books and mini book festivals, such as a Crime Week one, are held at the venue.

Radio shows have been recorded from the Old Fire Station and even politicians have used it to make their pitch.

In 2021 Carlisle City Council handed the business over to Greystone Leisure Ltd owned by Will and Maxine Morgan who won the tender to lease the venue.

The couple stated that their mission was: "to be a hub and driving force for entertainment, culture, and creativity in this great city while making the venue totally inclusive with offerings to suit everyone."