A DRONE has been deployed by Carlisle United to ensure Brunton Park is ready for the upcoming season.

Part of the summer programme of works at the stadium includes an annual inspection of the ground, with everything from terracing to roofs and everything in between checked.

A drone was deployed last Thursday afternoon to take imagery of the roofs on all three sides of the ground, following the recent renovations to the West Stand’s roof.

Chairman Andrew Jenkins said: “This is something we’ve done before and the footage we get is actually very useful.

“It was one of those coincidences where Alastair Bruce and his son Andy were talking about looking for somewhere to test their drone, so we were able to combine that with the offer of a flight over the stadium in return for the use of the imagery.

"It worked out really well for both parties. Utilising the drone allows us to get close to areas we wouldn’t otherwise be able to inspect

Chief executive Nigel Clibbens said: “Safety is of paramount importance and every year we look very closely at what is required.

“The off-season is very busy as we work closely with the Safety Advisory Group. The pictures also show the Environment Agency work on flood defences, and the work we’re doing on the pitch.”