Hero's welcome for new United owner

Carlisle United is in voluntary administration

Football fans have given a hero's welcome to the new owner of Carlisle United Football Club.

More than 1,500 supporters turned out at a fans' forum, to greet new chairman John Courtenay and returning team manager Roddy Collins.

Irish businessman Mr Courtenay took over the club, which is in administration, in a deal completed last Friday.

He and Mr Collins were given a standing ovation as they strode across the Brunton Park pitch.

I want to see this club getting into the first division

Carlisle United manager Roddy Collins

Mr Courtney said: "It's just unbelievable - I am overwhelmed by the amount of support shown to us.

"I believe the club can go places and succeed. On the evidence of the support shown here this should definitely be possible."

He said he hoped the team would soon benefit from a series of promotions.

The deal to buy the club is subject to a meeting of creditors, which takes place on Friday.

Mr Courtney said creditors would get their money back.

Knighton era

Roddy Collins, sacked by the club from his post as team manager last season, said: "I want to see this club getting into the first division."

The club went into voluntary administration in June to try to safeguard its future.

Joint administrators David Elliott and David Walker of BKR Haines Watts were appointed at the request of the club's directors.

The purchase of the club by Mr Courtenay ended Michael Knighton's controversial 10-year reign.