Former Carlisle United manager Paul Simpson has been saluted by the club for the way he helped embed the Blues back into the community.

Simpson, who managed his home-city club from 2003-6, received a Special Award at United's community sports trust awards.

It was in recognition of how Simpson made made it a priority to involve United much more in the community when he took the reins as manager.

Under Simpson's management and Fred Story's ownership, John Halpin returned to Brunton Park to head up the Blues' community work.

*Watch Simmo's acceptance speech below

Simpson also ensured players and staff were fully involved in community initiatives, recognising the importance of the Brunton Park club as a hub for the area.

Simpson, who is now first-team coach at Bristol City, gave an acceptance speech via video on the awards night at The Halston last Friday.

His appearance further cheered the audience given his recent battle with renal cell carcinoma.

Simmo, 55, said: "I'm delighted to accept the award.

"One of the things we talked about when Fred Story came into the club was improving our contribution to the area and the community programme.

"We brought Halpy back into the club, because we knew he would add real value to that.

"Thankfully players and staff supported John in the work he was trying to do.

"It was a huge success. This award is not only for me but for everybody else who helped.”