Carlisle Newsletter

02/09/2024

People who live, work and study in Carlisle and the surrounding rural towns and villages have two weeks left to take part in a major survey into life in the area.

Cumbria Community Foundation has commissioned a report – Carlisle: Opportunities and Challenges – which will analyse the city’s social needs and community issues, highlighting work already being undertaken to address disadvantages and identifying opportunities to help communities thrive.

People in Carlisle, Brampton, Dalston, Longtown and the surrounding rural areas are being asked to give their views to feed into the report by Monday 16 September.

The survey should take no more than five minutes to complete. Fill it in online here 👉 https://bit.ly/4cKc3tB

To request paper copies or for any queries, email: [email protected].

01/09/2024

The award-winning community archaeological dig, Uncovering Roman Carlisle, is set to return to Carlisle’s Roman Bathhouse this autumn.

The dig aims to discover more of the remaining mysteries of the site and will be held between Saturday 21 September and Sunday 20 October, Monday to Saturday of each week.

The autumn excavation will once again be able to provide free and easy access opportunities for Cumberland residents to take part in archaeology and heritage, or for groups, schools, and individuals to visit a live archaeological excavation.

Tours of the site will be held between 10am and 3pm each day, groups over ten are encouraged to make contact through the new website and make a booking.

More information and how to book as a volunteer can be found at the Uncovering Roman Carlisle website here 👉 https://www.uncoveringromancarlisle.co.uk/

31/08/2024

Popular vintage and designer boutique Goodbye, Norma Jean has returned to Intro HQ this week on Paternoster Row.

Fran Boyd is excited to open her pop-up shop for the next couple of weeks, selling a wide range of clothes, shoes, bags and accessories sourced from here and abroad. She loves the idea of sustainable fashion and, with bargains galore, would encourage anyone to pop in and check out the merchandise.

Goodbye Norma Jean is open Mondays - Sundays (closed on Tuesdays) until 9 September. Check their page for details.

30/08/2024

Carlisle's popular Castle Chocolates is preparing for the grand opening of its brand new larger store in Fisher Street tomorrow 🍫

The new premises, which is next door to Cranston's, will open its doors at 10am, following a £60,000 refurbishment which will give it more space to make and sell its delicious confectionery.

Owner Keith Tattersall said: "We needed a bigger space both in the shop area and in our production area. The current shop has served its purpose, I didn’t know if anyone would walk in the door on day one – but now, I know we have a sustainable business and it is time to expand.

“Having the larger shop space will give us a chance for a larger product range.

"At Christmas, we do a coffee collection which we don’t have the space for to do all year round, now we’ll be able to have more collections like that throughout the year.”

"We hope people will join us for a sweet celebration filled with delicious surprises. We'll have free samples of our latest chocolate creations and complimentary drinks with a ribbon cutting at 10.30am," he added.

30/08/2024

JAILED - FOR INCITING ATTACKS ON POLICE

A man from Carlisle has been convicted following a trial after he posted on social media encouraging people to target the police relating to potential planned disorder in Carlisle.

Stuart Burns, aged 41 of Briar Bank, Carlisle was charged on 8 August with two counts of an offence under Section 127 of the Communications Act.

Burns appeared before North Cumbria Magistrates Court yesterday and was found guilty of both offences and was sentenced to 14 weeks in custody.

The court heard that between 2 and 6 August Burns posted on social media encouraging people to channel anger towards the police and destroy police vehicles and equipment relating to potential planned disorder.

Chief Superintendent Carl Patrick said: "This sentence makes clear those inciting violence online will face the consequences.

“Burns encouraged people to target the police.

“Our officers should not come to work with the fear of being assaulted and the majority of the public understand this and show respect to the police as they go about their important work to keep people safe.

“Targeting officers not only has a significant impact on the officers concerned and their families, but this means they are removed from the front-line work. Targeting vehicles, putting strain on our ability to respond to emergency incidents, when people are in need.

“Where there is evidence of people inciting hatred or promoting violence on our streets, our officers will not hesitate to take action”

28/08/2024

Did you know that we send out a weekly newsletter full of local news? 💭

This weeks edition will be dropping into inboxes tomorrow at 6.30pm.

Not subscribed? Sign up here 👇
https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/d3e6j2

25/08/2024

The next phase of the Carlisle Station Gateway Project will focus on works to the Turkish Baths site.

Following the demolition of The Pools, Michael Thompson Limited will begin re-pointing and re-roofing the Turkish Baths from Monday 19 August, for approximately 23 weeks, weather permitting. James Street will remain open to vehicles, but the footpath adjacent to the site will be closed, with full directional signage provided for pedestrian safety.

Cumberland Council is collaborating closely with Friends of Carlisle Victorian and Turkish Baths to ensure the project meets community expectations and the investment secures positive outcomes for this historic building.

24/08/2024

Popular Mexican food outlet NACHO NACHO is now open in Carlisle 🌮

It has built up a strong following through its van which served food around Carlisle, but now will have a permanent home at 21 West Tower Street, offering sit-in, takeaway and deliveries.

Sisters Gill and Laura Hutton opened the store yesterday and judging by the queues they had for their mobile service it should be a big success.

23/08/2024

Well done to all the Carlisle students who have been celebrating exam results this week 👏

At Central Academy twins Jude and Max Harper were amongst the school’s top performers, securing a host of excellent grades. Jude achieved one grade 9, four grade 8s, one grade 7, two grade 6s and one grade 5, whilst Max achieved seven grade 8s, one grade 6 and one Distinction 2.

At The Richard Rose Morton Academy high performers, who secured the top grades of 8 and 9, included: Jack Horseman, who achieved three grade 9s, five grade 8s and one grade 7; Thomas Hammond, who achieved two grade 9s, one grade 8, three grade 7s, one grade 6 and one grade 4; Matthew Baxter, who achieved one grade 9, four grade 8s, two grade 7s, one grade 6 and one grade 4; Alexander Hird, who achieved one grade 9, three grade 8s, three grade 7s and one grade 6; Julia Mazur, who achieved one grade 9, two grade 8s, three grade 6s and two grade 5s; Maja Borek, who achieved one grade 9, four grade 7s, three grade 6s, one grade 5 and one grade 4.

At Newman School pleasing results were achieved by many, of particular note were: Amelia Per; Racheal Adebamiro; Emily Holt; Theo Kelton; Charlie Stothers; Emily Long; Bethan Cameron; Erin Lowery; Yame Nosa-Ogie and Victoria McGuinness

Headteacher at Newman School, John McAuley said: “There have been some fantastic GCSE results at St John Henry Newman Catholic School this year and we are incredibly proud our pupils for achieving these, these results are a tribute to the hard work and dedication of both our pupils and staff.

“It has been fantastic to see so many of our pupils surpass their own expectations, and I am delighted that many of them are returning as sixth formers to continue their educational journey with us.”

23/08/2024

SANDS CENTRE UPDATE

Work to replace the Sands Centre roof which has led to cancellation of so many shows will start next month.

The auditorium was closed when reinforced autoclaved aeriated concrete, known as RAAC, was found in the roof last year.

Today Cumberland Council confirmed preparatory work to replace the Sands Centre, Carlisle RAAC auditorium roof will start in September.

Following a detailed structural assessment of the roof last year by specialist engineers, a recommendation was put forward to replace the RAAC panels in the auditorium roof.

The assessment of the roof was undertaken following the change in the previous government’s guidance on the use of RAAC in buildings.

Following this decision, Cumberland Council had appointed Carlisle-based contractor Cubby Construction Ltd and following the agreement of a design for the replacement of the RAAC panels the project will be entering its construction phase.

To deliver this work, funding has already been secured from within existing council capital budgets. The costs of the roof replacement works are around £2.5 million and are expected to be completed by Spring 2025.

In addition to the removal and replacement of the RAAC panels, the council is also undertaking some additional internal improvements to the auditorium including a full replacement of the customer seating and upgrades to the back of house facilities.

Cumberland Council and GLL will provide further updates on the opening date of the event centre and the events programme for 2025 as soon as these are confirmed

21/08/2024

An update on the changing face of Carlisle

20/08/2024

A new pop-up exhibition will be opening at Intro on Paternoster Row this Wednesday, 21 August 🖼️

Landscape artist Joe Dias will be exhibiting a range of some of his favourite paintings.

Joe has been fascinated by the "haunting presence of the Solway” since he holidayed there as a child - and his passion shines through in his luminous paintings.

Original art works and prints will be on sale during the pop up exhibition in August which also features Joe’s study of a field, close to his house, in a series of five very different paintings at different times of the year.

The exhibition will be open daily from 10am-4pm until Tuesday 27 August.

20/08/2024

Another amazing street artwork has appeared in Carlisle's Clifford Street 🎨

It is the work of street artist Dotmasters and is the result of a collaboration between Blank Wall Assassins and Eden Arts.

Leon Seesix, also known as The Dotmaster, is adding to the 30 pieces of artwork already located throughout the city centre.

Its design brings the outside of a home to the exterior of the building with a wallpaper design across its walls along with a fireplace and lamps.

Read more here 👉 https://www.itv.com/news/border/2024-08-14/international-street-artist-uses-carlisle-buildings-as-canvas

19/08/2024

A popular international market is set to return to Carlisle city centre this week from Thursday 22 to Monday 26 August.

Organised by Market Place Europe, the award-winning International Market is supported by Cumberland Council, and shoppers will be spoilt for choice with a huge mix of authentic continental treats in the city centre. The event will include a great selection of arts, crafts, unique gifts and local traders.

🍲 For food lovers, there will be a tempting selection of continental and international flavours to sample, including Spanish Paella, Greek Gyros, a new Greek Vegan Deli serving a lot of tasty treats, Chinese, Indian, Polish, German, and other exotic street foods. There will also be a great selection of fresh foods including olives, British cheeses and chutneys, cakes, salami and pick and mix sweets.

🪴Green-fingered shoppers will not be disappointed either as the market will include a popular Dutch plant seller with his wonderful array of shrubs, plants, trees and bulbs.

An ancient Proclamation will be recited at the Market Cross on Saturday, 24 August at 10am. The Proclamation is a declaration of Carlisle’s rights to hold an annual Fair in August, originally granted to the citizens of the city in 1352 by Edward III.

A procession including The Mayor of Carlisle, Chris Southward, the Chair of Cumberland Council, Cllr Andy Semple, Sword and Mace Bearers and other Civic dignitaries will make its way from Old Town Hall to the Market Cross in the city centre.

18/08/2024

A ceremony took place in Carlisle this week to celebrate the start of building a £15m endoscopy unit on the grounds of the Cumberland Infirmary.

Once complete, the new endoscopy unit will be able to treat more patients, helping to reduce our waiting list and improve timely diagnosis, particularly for cancers.

Clinical leaders from the Trust were joined at the ceremony by construction partners from Ergea and Actiform and Carlisle MP Julie Minns to mark the start of the work.

Mr Daya Karat, consultant surgeon at NCIC, explains: “It’s really good news to see this project underway as it will have such great benefits for our local communities across north Cumbria and for our staff.

“When it is up and running the new facility will have more clinic rooms that all meet modern standards that we are not able to meet in the current environment. Expanding our endoscopy service will help us to make faster diagnoses and meet the rising demand for the service. It also brings the Unit in line with what we already have at the West Cumberland Hospital following the redevelopment in 2015.”

Work is progressing very well with the excavation of the original site now complete and the retaining wall structures - now starting to go up.

The Cumberland Infirmary currently has only one endoscopy room that is of a suitable size and two smaller rooms that do not meet national accreditation standards. The new build will include five clinical rooms as well as an outpatient area. The expansion of the service also means patients currently travelling to Newcastle for a procedure can be seen more locally in Carlisle.

17/08/2024

The Historic Quarter Arts Festival runs until Sunday 18 August, so there are just a few more days to catch the amazing art that is being exhibited around the city.

Head to Intro, 7 Paternoster Row, for the central exhibition, and pick up a map that will lead you around more than 20 venues. You will find a work of art wherever you see a blue plaque on the door or window.

The judges are hard at work making their final decisions and we are also running a People’s Vote, so please come along and vote for your favourite work of art.

16/08/2024

Congratulations to all of Carlisle's Year 13 students who received their A-level results this week 👏

At St John Henry Newman Catholic School headteacher John McAuley said; “Cumbrian schools are proud to serve our children, their families and the communities they come from.

"Results this year demonstrate yet again the resilience of Cumbrian youngsters and their dedication to their studies."

Notable achievements at the school included:

🔸 Ayden Wildridge who received an A*, 2 A’s and a B

🔸 William Okoro who received an A*, 2 A’s and a B

🔸 Witold Lizon who received an A and 3 B’s

Trinity School results included:

🔸 Jonathan Brett-Young who achieved AAA in Drama, History and Music;

🔸 Macie Farragher who achieved A*AA in English Literature, Drama and History

🔸 Eisha Thompson who achieved Distinction*AA in Health & Social Care, English Literature and Law

🔸Lucy Downey who achieved A*AB in Law, Geography and Psychology

🔸 Jess Gardiner who achieved AAB in Media, English Language and Drama

🔸 Thomas Martlew who achieved A*A*A in Maths, Physics and History

🔸 Isabella Towers who achieved AAA in English Language, Psychology and Sociology;

🔸 Olivia Woof who achieved AAB in Geography, Sociology and English Literature.

16/08/2024

MAJOR PLANS TO IMPROVE BUS SERVICES

Cumberland Council today announced moves designed to transform the bus network.

The council is launching the first phase of the bus service improvement plan in partnership with Stagecoach it will deliver a more reliable and accessible network that truly connects our communities.

This autumn, Cumberland Council will implement significant enhancements to local bus services, including several improvements in west Cumbria and the following enhancements:

🚌 Route 60: Silloth – Maryport: the council is reintroducing this service between key towns.

🚌 Route 101: Rockcliffe – Durdar: the council is restoring and improving this service.

🚌 Route 300: Workington – Carlisle: enjoy increased frequency with buses, every 30 minutes.

In addition to this fantastic news, the council is planning further enhancements to rural bus services this autumn.
Cumberland Council is grateful for the £2.4 million in funding from the Department for Transport under the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), which will enable them to make significant enhancements to the bus services across Cumberland.

Tom Waterhouse, Managing Director of Stagecoach, added his support: "We are proud to be working in partnership with Cumberland Council on the first phase of the Bus Service Improvement Plan. We have a shared ambition to grow the local bus network here in Cumbria, connecting more communities and making it easier to travel in a more environmentally sustainable way. We are excited about growing the local bus network together."

Carlisle MP Julie Minns welcomed news of the investment and highlighted the positive impact for Rockcliffe and Cargo, and for family and friends visiting the Eden Valley and Jigsaw hospice by bus.

“Buses that connected Rockcliffe to the city centre disappeared in 2022, and I am delighted to see them restored.

“And restoring bus services to the Eden Valley Hospice will also be returning which will make a big difference to many people,” she said.

“I would like to thank Cumberland Council and the Government which is providing the funding that will lead to further improvements to rural bus services.

“Buses provide a lifeline in areas like ours and whilst I welcome the subsidy that’s enabled these routes to be restored, in the long term we need our bus services to be back in public control.

“That’s part of the Labour Government’s strategy and I look forward to working with Cumberland Council and ministers to deliver the best possible devolution deal for Carlisle and North Cumbria which will provide the basis for bringing our bus services back under the control of a new combined authority,” she added.

13/08/2024

The Cumberland is preparing to reopen its flagship branch in Carlisle city centre following a six-figure investment.

It describes the new-look branch in English Street – due to open on October 14 – as its “branch of the future” with a host of features to make banking more straightforward for customers whilst also protecting the environment.

Claire Deekes, the Society’s chief customer officer, said: “This has been a significant investment that will allow us to continue to provide our outstanding service to our members in the heart of Carlisle. There’ll be more space, and the same friendly faces delivering our award-winning customer experience and service.”

The modern service at the newly refurbished branch means the Society will relocate the nearby branches in Fisher Street and Denton Holme into the flagship English Street location on October 11 and November 8 respectively. Both are within walking distance of English Street.

Customers based at Fisher Street and Denton Holme have been contacted about the relocation. Additional steps are being taken for those who have been identified as vulnerable.

There will be no redundancies and all colleagues will continue to work within the Carlisle branches.

The Cumberland’s other Carlisle branches at Kingstown and Rosehill remain open as usual.

To read more click here 👉 https://weareintro.co.uk/2024/08/06/cumberland-opens-building-society-branch-of-the-future/

12/08/2024

Don't miss out on this event happening this Thursday 12 September at Cakes & Ale📚
More information below⬇️

It's an absolute pleasure to share this event with you!

Cumbrian writer and poet Katie Hale is going to be discussing her new novel 'The Edge of Solitude' in Cakes and Ale cafe on Thursday 12th September at 7.30pm.

'The Edge of Solitude' is Katie's second novel and is a tense eco-thriller featuring disgraced environmental activist Ivy Cunningham. In order to rescue her reputation Ivy travels to the Antarctic as part of a billionare philanthropists's project aiming to salvage the region. As the journey progresses Ivy becomes increasingly suspicious of her fellow passengers and the project's motives...

This is a story of climate emergency and human fallibility, of the clash of ambition and principle, and of the choices we make when we know time is running out.

Described as 'powerful, authoritative, atmospheric and wise' by Joanne Harris Katie's second novel is a masterpiece combining a tense plot with Katie's signature poetic lyricism.

Book & ticket: £18 (inc. a drink)
Ticket only: £6 (inc a drink)

Available below 🔽

https://www.bookscumbria.com/product/cumbrian-books/event-tickets/katie-hale-in-conversation/

11/08/2024

Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, Cumbria's Children's Hospice are inviting families across the county to take part in their annual Garden of Memories.

The two Garden of Memories events, which the public are invited to attend, take place today from 5pm at Bitts Park to commemorate 10 years of their dedicated garden area, and Tuesday 13 August 2024 from 6.30pm at the hospice.

Garden of Memories is for anyone throughout Cumbria, giving them the opportunity to commemorate those they miss and supporting families who need specialist clinical and medical care. To take part, simply donate and the name of the person you wish to remember will be displayed in the Garden of Memories, which will be accessible at Eden Valley Hospice throughout August.

For more information, please visit the website: https://www.edenvalleyhospice.org/support-us/garden-of-memories/

Or call 01228 817613 or pop into the hospice between 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

10/08/2024

POLICE PROBE RACE ATTACK

Police are investigating a racially aggravated common assault which took place on London Road in Carlisle on 7 June 2024 shortly before 6pm.

No one was injured during the incident.

Officers would like to speak with the person pictured as part of the investigation.

Anyone with information relating to the incident can report online via www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it quoting log number 229 of J June 2024. You can also call 101.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

10/08/2024

The multi-million-pound Market Square and Greenmarket Regeneration Project is about to get underway.

Cumberland Council is enhancing the 6,000-square-metre area in the city centre, transforming it into an attractive destination for both residents and visitors. This project will create a unique multifunctional events space for various activities and gatherings.

Week commencing Monday 12 August: The site offices and welfare facilities will be set up on Castle Street, the site engineers and surveyors will be completing final checks of the site area.

Week commencing Monday 19 August: A construction compound will be set up, with fencing installed on the highway at the end of Castle Street (near Specsavers). This will impact traffic and pedestrian flow, but full signage will be provided to help with navigation. A walkway for pedestrians will always be maintained, although its location may change periodically for construction purposes. Construction work will begin, including the relocation of the war memorial with the support of the British Legion. The project is expected to be completed by spring 2025.

The Summer International Market, planned for Thursday 22 until Monday 26 August and Remembrance Sunday commemorations on Sunday 10 November will go ahead as planned.

09/08/2024

A local writer and illustrator has been creating a buzz in the market hall as part of Carlisle’s Historic Quarter Arts Festival.

The event has so far seen magician, Magic Yin, taking time out from his visit to Carlisle to perform some amazing magic tricks, along with Adam Russell, who has unicycled along the art trail all around the Historic Quarter. The Creative Corridor has been visited by Julie Minns, MP, and the mayor is due to pop along this week as well as hundreds of locals and visitors.

The Historic Quarter Arts Festival runs until 18 August and over 60 works of art can be seen at Intro on Paternoster Row and at venues around the historic quarter, wherever you see a blue ‘venue’ plaque in the window. You can find a map of the festival venues here.

This weekend sees a second workshop from Carlisle Writers’ Group from 11am - 2pm at Intro, 7 Paternoster Row. On Thursday 14 August, Abby Kilfedder of Artscool is running a drop-in workshop for children from 2pm - 4pm, making clay biscuits inspired by Carlisle’s industrial heritage. Both events are free to attend.

09/08/2024

POLICE IMPOSE 2ND DISPERSAL ORDER

Cumbria Constabulary has put in place a dispersal order for Carlisle on Saturday (10 Aug).

A dispersal order was used on Wednesday evening (7 Aug) to assist officers in maintaining order in the city. The powers will be used again on Saturday.

The public should expect an increased police presence throughout Saturday.

The dispersal order for the city centre and surrounding area will be in place from 10am on Saturday until midnight.

Additional powers have been put in place to provide officers with enhanced stop and search capabilities and the authority to order the removal of face coverings intended to disguise or conceal a person’s appearance. Officers will also have the power to seize any item used in the commission of anti-social behaviour.

Chief Superintendent Carl Patrick said: “The dispersal order and additional powers will ensure officers on the streets have the authorisation to act swiftly if confronted by groups or individuals intent on engaging in violent disorder.

“Public safety is our number one priority and officers on the ground will work to ensure that the law-abiding majority of people are free to go about their business in the city without fear.

“Whilst we will continue to support and facilitate the right to peaceful protest, our message to anyone intending to engage in disorder is to stay away. Officers will respond swiftly and decisively to any individuals who engage in criminality.”

08/08/2024

🍪We're celebrating Carlisle's biscuit connections with a special event next week
🎨Are your children ready for an artistic challenge?
🖼️Come along to a FREE drop-in workshop

Abby Kilfedder from Artscool is holding a drop-in children's workshop
Thursday 15 August
2pm - 4pm

No need to book - just turn up and have a go at making clay biscuits, inspired by Carlisle's industrial heritage

Intro HQ, 7 Paternoster Row, Carlisle, CA3 8TT

07/08/2024

POLICE ACT ON DISORDER RISK WITH DISPERSAL ORDER FOR CARLISLE

Cumbria Constabulary is aware of reports circulating online of potential planned disorder in Carlisle this evening (7 August).

There will be an increased police presence throughout the day, and a dispersal order for the city centre and surrounding area will be in place until midnight (covering the area shown on the map).

Legislation provides officers with enhanced stop and search capabilities and authority to order the removal of face coverings intended to disguise or conceal a person’s appearance. Officers will also have the power to seize any item used in the commission of anti-social behaviour.

Chief Superintendent Carl Patrick said: “The dispersal order and the powers which have been authorised are in place to protect our communities from those who may engage in violent disorder.

“We support and facilitate the right to peaceful protest however violent disorder will not be tolerated.

“Public safety is our number one priority, and our officers are here to provide help, advice and reassurance.

“Our advice to anyone considering engaging in disorder is not to attend. Anyone involved in criminality will be dealt with robustly.”

07/08/2024

🖼️ The Historic Quarter Arts Festival is now into its 3rd week.
🎨 Pop down to Intro on Paternoster Row
🖼️ Open daily 11am-4pm, until Sunday 18 August

You can also head down to The Market Hall Carlisle where you can explore the Creative Corridor with Michelle and share your stories with The Activity Bus
Open daily until 17 August

Find a map of the art trail here 👉 https://weareintro.co.uk/artsfestival/

04/08/2024

Carlisle and Cumbria Artists are holding their 55th annual art exhibition at Carlisle Cathedral Fratry 🖼️

This popular exhibition features the work of local artists and several works have already been sold, with all proceeds going to the cathedral funds.

The event is hosted by the artists themselves who have volunteered their time and they are grateful to Jan Foster who has organised this year’s free event. Visitors also have the chance to see inside the magnificent Fratry Hall and visit the Carlisle Cathedral Cafe which is housed in the modern extension.

The exhibition is open daily from 10am to 4pm until Sunday 11 August.