Community Centres across Carlisle, Brampton and Longtown are opening their doors to the public - hosting a series of community open days throughout July, August, and September - with the first that took place on Sunday, July 25, at Morton Community Centre in Carlisle.

The events, organised by ‘Carlisle Matters’ - the new name for the recently rebranded Carlisle and District Federation of Community Organisations - will see three more Community Centres host events on the following days: Friday 27th August - Harraby Community Centre (12noon – 4.00pm); Sunday 29th August - Brampton Community Centre (11.00am – 3.00pm) and; Saturday 11th September - Longtown Community Centre (11.00am – 3.00pm), having already had its first open day in Morton Community Centre earlier in the week

Carlisle Matters says it has members at the heart of the community, and is a registered charity with a member network of 12 community centres and community organisations

They work together and individually, to improve local communities and address the needs of local people to effect positive change.

By combining their experience, resources and knowledge they say they can help to ensure a better future for local communities.

They say of their organisation: "We build on strengths to form a core of community organisations who work together to strengthen relationships, streamline community assets and bring together our localcommunities."

Helen Fisher, the incumbent Chair of Carlisle Matters and Manager of the Botcherby Community Centre said: “The idea behind the events is to bring the community together and give people a chance to reconnect with friends and family and showcase what each Community Centre has to offer.

“They are also a great way for people to meet the local community groups and organisations who are making a difference in their communities”.

Entertainment, music, food and drink, and fun activities for all ages will also be available.

Helen continues: “The events are for everyone and there’ll be lots of fun activities for people to see, listen to and take part in. We hope the events will be interesting, fun, and educational for everyone.

“Despite the Government’s unlocking of restrictions this week, we want to make sure those attending the events feel safe, so hand sanitiser stations will be positioned throughout the venues, and we also encourage people to keep a safe social distance, where possible.

“The events are free to attend and hopefully we’ll be blessed with glorious weather, so they should be a great day out.

“Come and discover your local Community Centre and find out what happens there!”