A new exhibition featuring historic Carlisle United memorabilia has opened at the University of Cumbria.
The exhibition, which is based at the university's Brampton Road campus, was opened on Tuesday, March 3.
Featuring memorabilia spanning across the club's storied history, from Carlisle United's historic 3-2 win over AS Roma at the Stadio Olimpico in 1972 to the Blues topping the football pyramid in their iconic 1974/75 First Division season, the exhibition has been put together by the Carlisle United Heritage Group.
The exhibition also contains the original match ball from Carlisle United's dramatic 4-3 victory over Cardiff City in the FA Cup in December 1976 when forward Billy Rafferty pulled the Blues back from the brink with a six-minute hat-trick.
The group's archive is based at the University of Cumbria campus and thanks to funding from The National Lottery, Carlisle United Supporters' Trust, and the Carlisle United Supporters' Club London Branch, the exhibition has been brought to life.
"Carlisle United has 120 years of history," Simon Clarkson, Carlisle United's supporter liaison officer said, speaking to the News & Star.
"That is filled with highs and lows, resilience, fighting through floods, the main stand burning down, promotion, relegations, and incredibly emotional times.
"You think about the Jimmy Glass goal, being top of the league and the best team in England in 1974, but I think its all about the roots the club has put down and its importance in the community.
"This exhibition isn't just for old people, there is something here for everyone, particularly with the shirts display. I think everybody will find something of interest.
As well as being attended by University of Cumbria students and Carlisle United supporters, the exhibition's opening event was attended by Blues icons George McVitie and Bobby Parker.
McVitie made over 320 league appearances for Carlisle United during two spells at Brunton Park between 1965 and 1981, whilst Parker, who is widely regarded as one of United’s finest defenders of all-time, made over 370 league appearance during his time in Cumbria between 1974 and 1984.
"The amount of work that has gone into this exhibition is fantastic," McVitie said, speaking to the News & Star.
"There are people here today who remember the 1950s, Bill Shankly, Peter Beardsley, Stan Bowles, [Chris] Balderstone, there are character in these pictures from so many generations."
Parker added: "I said to the heritage group, we need people like you. I have got full marks for supporters who continue to support the club.
"They don't do it for any money, they do it voluntarily, and they have put all of this history together and it is amazing."
The event was also attended by current Carlisle United players Josh Williams and Elliot Embleton who were able to soak up the history on display.
Speaking to the News & Star, Embleton said: "Talking to some of the older players has been really interesting as well as being able to find out more about the club's history.
Williams added: "It's intriguing, seeing all the kits, speaking to the former players and learning from them is really interesting."
As a thank you to the University of Cumbria for hosting the exhibition, the Carlisle United Supporters' Club London Branch donated match tickets for the Blues' clash with Southend United on Saturday (March 7) that are to be given away to students.
This also comes as Carlisle United continue their 'Raise the Roof' ticket promotion for the fixture as they target a bumper attendance at Brunton Park.
The exhibition is not yet open to the public, with opening dates set to be announced in the near future.
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