Clint Hill is today crowned Carlisle United's player of the year by News & Star readers.

The veteran defender gained 45 per cent of the vote in our readers' poll.

In a two-horse race for the trophy, 39-year-old Hill edged ahead of midfielder Jamie Devitt, who claimed 33 per cent of the vote.

The award caps an impressive season for the former Tranmere, Stoke, QPR and Rangers favourite since he joined the Blues last September.

Hill today thanked supporters for giving him the 2017/18 accolade.

He said: "Thank-you very much for this award and your support this season - myself and the team have really appreciated it.

"The fans, players and everyone connected with the club have made me feel really welcome from my first day here, and I've enjoyed every minute playing for your club.

"Thank you once again."

Hill has been credited with a hugely influential role in United's defensive solidity since he linked up with his former QPR and Crystal Palace coach Keith Curle at Carlisle.

He has made 41 appearances since joining the Blues four months after his departure from Ibrox.

Along with his debut - a 5-0 win at Crewe - he has contributed to 15 clean sheets in a United shirt.

He joined with United in 18th position, and the Cumbrians now ninth with one game to go.

His solitary goal in a United shirt was the winner in a 1-0 victory at Grimsby last November.

He also also been learning his coaching ropes under Curle's guidance at Brunton Park.

Outgoing boss Curle yesterday said he expected United would want to make an offer to keep Hill next season.

"Clint's a good player, a good character and a good professional," Curle said.

The defender, though, has long said that he has a big decision to make this summer on whether he will continue playing.

He has also been strongly linked with a position at Fleetwood under incoming manager Joey Barton.

More than 450 supporters took part in our poll.

Mark Ellis came third, with seven per cent of the vote, ahead of fellow defender Gary Liddle in fourth.

Hill will be presented with our trophy, supplied by Carlisle Glass, before this Saturday's final game of the season against Newport at Brunton Park.

Winger Nicky Adams was last season's winner.

*United have achieved the Family Excellence status for a sixth successive year.

They are among 56 EFL clubs to be recognised for their work in engaging families on match days.

EFL Clubs received two "mystery family" visits throughout the season, with feedback and reports determining whether they would achieve Family Excellence status.

The total number of clubs to receive the status is up from 53 in 2016/17. Luton were named League Two's family club of the year.

EFL chief executive Shaun Harvey said: “It is hugely encouraging to see the continuous development and improvement made by EFL Clubs in offering engaging match day experiences for families."