WITH 2023 almost over, now seems a good time to look back on some of the biggest news stories covered by the News & Star in the past year.
Looking back at the year, we've created a very quick round-up of just some of the most powerful and most read stories - from the triumphs to the tragedies.
Carlisle United promoted to League One
Where to start other than Carlisle United's memorable promotion in May. Paul Simpson's side triumphed on penalties to defeat Stockport County at Wembley, and our award-winning sports reporter Jon Colman was there to cover it in all its glory.
Hilltop Hotel anti-immigration demonstration
Anger bubbled to the surface during a significant demonstration outside Hilltop Hotel in March as a large crowd protested the government's immigration policy. The protest was met in the city centre by an equally-sized counter protest.
NACRO Educational Centre closes
There was a 'tragic loss' for young and disadvantaged children in Carlisle back in July as the NACRO educational centre was sadly forced to close.
Sands Centre closes and confirms cancellation of shows
The Sands Centre has begun to cancel the 'vast majority' of shows until the end of 2024 as the venue was forced to close after a change in guidelines over 'Raac' - the controversial crumbly concrete.
Carlisle city centre Tesco closes permanently
The Tesco located at Victoria Viaduct revealed that it would be closing on October 14. It was later revealed that this was due to the presence of RAAC.
Parents of Workington baby Dallas Kelly jailed
Phil Coleman was on hand to cover one of the biggest court cases of the year, as Reece Kelly was jailed for 18 years after being convicted of the murder of his son Dallas.
Loungers takes over from empty Topshop unit
It was confirmed in May that Loungers would take over from the empty Topshop unit in Carlisle city centre, with their new restaurant and bar later opening in October.
Piatak family completes Carlisle United takeover
After months of negotiations, the Piatak family were finally able to complete their takeover of Carlisle United in November. The Americans received a warm welcome in their first official game as owners against Charlton Athletic.
Old Courthouse Cockermouth collapses into river
The historic old courthouse building in Cockermouth was declared unsafe in November 2021 and earlier this year, it collapsed after being eroded by the river Cocker, causing the bridge to close for a number of months. Read more here.
Major investment into McVitie's factory
A new £2 million warehouse at the pladis biscuit plant in Carlisle was officially opened by MP, John Stevenson back in June. The warehouse was part of an overall £12 million revamp which helped to create more than 150 jobs.
Sellafield 'reckless' with taxpayers' cash in early home-time row
Dozens of workers at the Sellafield nuclear plant were given an 'informal warning' for clocking off early. It was discovered thanks to a freedom of information request that staff at the Waste Monitoring and Compaction Plant (WAMAC) and satellite buildings were 'shutting down the plant and leaving the Sellafield site several hours early on a daily basis. Read Phil Coleman's exclusive investigation here.
New Burger King announced for Carlisle
Plans for a new Burger King in Carlisle were unanimously approved back at a meeting of Cumberland Council back in June. Upwards of 30 jobs, including five managerial roles, are expected to be created when the site eventually opens at St Nicholas Gate Retail Park.
Carlisle Lake District Airport up for sale as Esken sheds assets
Airport bosses confirmed that Carlisle Lake District Airport is amongst their assets up for sale back in August. The aviation and renewables group, Esken, revealed on its yearly report financial concerns with a plan to exit from 'non-core assets' which included Carlisle Airport.
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