Carlisle is beginning to establish itself as an “event city”, with crowds flocking to enjoy both the Pirelli Rally and spring fair.

Colin Glover, leader of the city council, said that both bank holiday events were well-attended and their popularity is a good indication of what to expect over the summer months.

“It was a fantastic weekend with both events going on,” he said.

“We weren’t sure what the weather would be like, but it held up and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. The Pirelli Carlisle Rally is always a popular event and you’ll always have crowds turning up to watch the spectacle.

“The spring fayre allowed us to support both local businesses and small businesses and it was also very popular.

“We heard that some traders were even having to re-stock over the weekend because they’d sold out of the things they were selling.”

It was the first time the Spring Fayre had been held, with city council bosses hoping it would prove a welcome entertainment after the floods - and bring much-needed trade back to the city.

Mr Glover added that Carlisle is now gaining a reputation for holding a wide range of events capable of drawing in people from across Cumbria and beyond.

“It’s looking good over the next couple of months,” he continued.

“We’ve also got the Music on the Marr event coming up at Castle Carrock, the Made in Cumbria farmers market and of course in August we’ve got the Carlisle Pageant.

“There’s also the return of the Tour of Britain.”

Mr Glover said: “I think people realise now that there’s a lot going on in Carlisle and it’s something we should be proud of.

“The fire show this year will also be based on an industrial theme and will celebrate the city’s industrial heritage.”

Mr Glover believes that a run of different events for people of all ages across the spring and summer months is a shining light at the end of a difficult winter for the city.

“I think that Carlisle needed a confidence boost and having all these events going on has done just that,” he said.

“It’s been a difficult time for a lot of people, but everyone is bouncing back now and having a lot of different events going on gives them something to look forward to.”