A special salute for Carlisle United legend John Halpin

Brunton Park saluted John Halpin yesterday ahead of his retirement.

At the Blues' game against Walsall, the former winger received a special lifetime service award in honour of his many years heading the club’s community sports trust.

Professional Footballers’ Association chief executive Maheta Molango travelled to Carlisle’s ground to make the presentation to 60-year-old Halpin.

And the hugely popular Scot received a warm ovation from supporters during the half-time ceremony.

John Halpin shares a joke with PFA chief executive Maheta Molango (Image: Ben Holmes)

Halpin, who joined the club as a player in 1984 and headed their community department from the 1990s, will step down at the end of this year.

He recently said it had been a “privilege” and that he was “proud” to have served the club for so long.

Blues fans have described Halpin as a club legend while manager Paul Simpson says he would like him to remain involved at Brunton Park in some capacity.

John Halpin receives his award from PFA chief Maheta Molango (Image: Barbara Abbott)

Halpin, who turns 61 on Tuesday, said the fact the community sports trust are moving into a new three-year strategic plan and funding cycle meant it was the right time to walk away.

“I’ve got five grandchildren, and I want to spend more time with them,” he said. “And I’m going to try and sneak onto the golf course and try and get my handicap down before it’s too late…”

READ MORE: John Halpin reflects on his work as the Blues’ long-serving community boss

Halpin thanks the crowd as he is given an ovation (Image: Ben Holmes)