Carlisle United legend John Halpin has agreed to stay on at the club in an ‘ambassador’ role.

The Blues favourite is retiring from his role as manager of United’s community sports trust.

But the club have confirmed that the hugely popular Scot will continue to fly the flag for United in a new capacity.

The move was confirmed at a surprise reception at Brunton Park to mark Halpin’s retirement after decades of service.

Chairman Andrew Jenkins said: “I’m delighted to confirm that Halpy has agreed to act as an ambassador for the club, which means we’ll be seeing him here with us on match days.”

The detail of Halpin’s ambassador role is yet to be confirmed by the Blues.

But it will ensure the 61-year-old continues his close connection with United, something which dates back to 1984 when he first joined as a player from Celtic.

He has spent much of the period since the early 1990s at the helm of the Blues’ community work.

United manager Paul Simpson had long spoken of his hope that Halpin would remain on board at the club in some capacity.

Speaking at yesterday’s reception, as reported by the club website, Simpson added: “John has been at the forefront of building up [the community sports trust] and he knows he now leaves it in good hands.

“I spoke to the chairman about the importance of having good people around us, and I’m delighted to hear that he will be acting as an ambassador. It’s a role he’s made for.”

Halpin recently received a long-service award from the Professional Footballers’ Association in recognition of his service to United and the game.

READ MORE: Big interview with John Halpin as he prepares to retire