Former player Alan Shoulder passed away recently and to commemorate him the Carlisle United Collective have collated some memorabilia for fans to view.
As part of the on-going National Lottery Heritage Funded project “BACKING THE BLUES - 120 YEARS OF CARLISLE UNITED” a group of fan volunteers, known as the Carlisle United “Collective”, are working to show club memorabilia, archives and Brunton Park.
The first display cabinet has been unveiled this week upstairs in the East Stand Ticket Office. More will follow as part of the project. This is the latest step in the club’s longer-term vision to create a museum at Brunton Park. The “Collective” will oversee a regular rotation of items for display.
To commemorate the passing of former player Alan Shoulder, some items have been added this week in memory of his career at United.
Alan arrived at Brunton Park in the summer of 1982 as manager Bob Stokoe sought to strengthen the team that had just been promoted to the Second Division. A natural striker, whose strengths were his anticipation and ability to read the game, he formed an effective partnership in his time here with Malcolm Poskett.
He scored 21 goals in 1982/83 and in the following campaign was a key member of the United side that was challenging for promotion for much of the term.
He came to football prominence as a member of the Blyth Spartans team that reached the FA Cup fifth round in 1978 when he was still a working miner. He was then signed by Newcastle United, where he spent four years before joining Carlisle.
After leaving Brunton Park he joined Hartlepool United before spending many years as both player and manager for several non-league clubs, while also working in the family timber business.
He passed away on 31 January 2025, four days before his 72nd birthday,
Former Blue Jack Ashurst said "I fondly remember the good times spent together in a great team. Rest in Peace, Alan."
Items showcasing Alan’s time at Brunton Park will be on display until 1 March.
Fans can see the items when they visit. The area is open each weekday from 10am to 5pm.
