Carlisle United will drop the requirement for fans to wear face masks at Brunton Park - but are still encouraging supporters to do so.

The Blues have made an annoucement in response to the Government's decision to return to Plan A of Covid-19 measures.

Until now the Cumbrians have made face coverings mandatory in indoor parts of the stadium.

But mask-wearing in those spaces will now be voluntary from next weekend's home game against Sutton United.

Carlisle say it will be "a matter of personal choice" as to whether supporters wish to continue wearing masks.

But they added: "It is critical that all fans continue to play their part in minimising the risk our games pose to fellow supporters, and the wider community. We remain fully committed to this guidance.

"Public health advice remains in place, so we continue to ask fans to voluntarily wear a face covering in crowded indoor spaces."

United have updated their Covid-19 spectator code of conduct in light of the Plan A measures, which will return next week.

They advise fans to continue to observe "hands, face, space" guidelines, to arrive early to avoid queues and congestion, not to enter red zone areas, to spread out in standing areas where possible, use contactless payment, and avoid overcrowding at foot outlets and toilet areas.

"Supporters will not be required to wear a face covering when located in their seat or on the terrace within the stadium bowl," the guidance added.

"Face coverings are voluntary for indoor settings or hospitality and bar settings in the club, including Foxy’s, the hospitality boxes, lounges, or the West Stand bars.

"Face coverings are voluntary in the East Stand concourse and all other inside areas, like toilets and entry and exit vomitories.

"Face coverings remain strongly recommended when brushing past others, or when moving in or around the stadium outside in close proximity to others (such as queuing to get in).

"If you are moving past other spectators, to and from your seat, please avoid where possible face-to-face contact with them, sometimes called the ‘brush past’ - show courtesy and turn your back as you pass.

"Maintain good hand hygiene - use the sanitiser dispensers provided and avoid touching your face, or handles, railings, etc, whenever possible.

"Always cover your mouth if needing to cough or sneeze."