A KEY member of Carlisle United's squad from last season has joined the club's arch-rivals on a two-year deal - the second in as many days.

Goalkeeper Paul Farman has followed in the footsteps of striker Offrande Zanzala in turning down a new deal at Brunton Park to join Barrow AFC.

The 31-year-old shot stopper only joined United last summer, and missed just four League Two games throughout the campaign.

Farman took to Twitter to thank Carlisle fans for their support.

He said: "Had a great year at Carlisle United and can't thank everybody enough there for how welcome you made me feel, at the few games we managed to play in front of fans.

"All the best, Farms."

North-Shields born Farman was on the books at Newcastle United in his youth, before making a senior breakthrough with Blyth Spartans.

He spent time at Gateshead and Lincoln City, where he made 250 appearances over six seasons, before moving on to Stevenage and then Carlisle.

Also out of the door this week is captain Nick Anderton, who turned down a contract offer to join Bristol Rovers.

The club is now waiting on a response to deals offered to Rhys Bennett and Omari Patrick.

Director of football David Holdsworth confirmed that work is ongoing behind the scenes as the club looks to add to the squad.

He told Carlisle United's website: "It’s no problem for us at all if these players turn us down, it’s all part of what football is. Offers were made to these lads and we were very happy with what was presented because, like I say, they were all good lads for us last season.

“We made very good offers to them but if they decide to go for more money elsewhere we will always respect that. We do our business privately, and we know the players show respect to us for that and, if they do move on, they will always go with our thanks and best wishes.

“There’s no pressure on any of the other three, they’ll do what they feel is right. For us it’s all about looking forward to the future and we feel really positive about where we are.

“We’ve also said goodbye to the loan players, but the lads we had last season were always going back to their parent clubs, that’s part and parcel of the deals you make."